Dr Sophie Hodgetts, Assistant Professor in our world-leading Department of Psychology, has played a central role in shaping national Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) research.
Her pioneering work has led to her appointment as a trustee of the UK's first dedicated PMDD research charity.
Dr Hodgetts leads on PMDD-related research, with her most recent study exploring the hidden impacts PMDD has on quality of life and relationships.
Advancing understanding of PMDD
The International Association for Premenstrual Disorders UK (IAPMD UK) is the first charity dedicated to researching PMDD, a severe hormone-based mood condition.
The new charity - which establishes a UK arm of the global organisation - aims to advance understanding and improve care for individuals affected by PMDD through research, professional education and collaboration.
It will also build the UK's knowledge base and professional capacity to recognise, diagnose, and manage premenstrual disorders effectively and compassionately.
As a trustee, Dr Hodgetts will help guide the charity's research agenda.
Through research, education and collaboration, IAPMD UK is committed to driving real, measurable progress. By strengthening professional knowledge and advancing evidence-based care we aim to improve outcomes and, ultimately, save lives.
About PMDD
Of the 18 million people in the UK of reproductive age, PMDD affects one million women and people who menstruate.
The condition causes debilitating symptoms in the latter half of the menstrual cycle, impacting all aspects of life, with some people requiring support for daily living.
Future research
Dr Hodgetts continues to lead research in this vital area. Her upcoming work will deepen understanding of how PMDD affects relationships.
She plans a series of follow‑up studies that will include interviews and focus groups with people living with the disorder and their loved ones. This research will help identify key areas for intervention and guide the development of supportive strategies.
To mark its launch, IAPMD UK is leading a landmark stakeholder event in London in May this year, bringing together policymakers, NHS leaders, health professionals, people with PMDD and charities, to improve the lives of people living with the condition.
This will be followed by the UK's first PMDD research conference in August, hosted by the University of the West of Scotland.
