Sex, Intimacy & PMDD: Why Your Pleasure Matters (And How to Survive the Tough Days)

Hey lovely,

Let’s talk about something most of us never got taught: how sex, intimacy, and PMDD are all tangled up—and how understanding your own needs can be a game-changer for your healing journey.

If you live with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), you already know how it can mess with your mood, energy, and even your sex life. But here’s the truth: pleasure and intimacy aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re powerful tools for healing, self-worth, and even symptom relief.

Why Intimacy Is More Than Sex

Intimacy isn’t just about intercourse. It’s about connection, laughter, cuddles, and feeling truly seen by your partner (or by yourself). PMDD can make you feel disconnected, but learning to honor your needs—whether that’s playfulness, rest, or a good old-fashioned make-out session—can transform your experience.

How Your Cycle Impacts Sex & Desire

Your sex drive and intimacy needs shift with your menstrual cycle.

• Follicular/Ovulation: You might feel more playful and open to new things.

• Luteal: You may crave emotional safety and gentler touch.

• Menstrual: Non-sexual intimacy or just being held might be all you need.

And guess what? Orgasms aren’t selfish—they’re science! They release endorphins and oxytocin, lower stress, help regulate your cycle, and can even ease PMDD symptoms.

Busting Patriarchal Myths

Society tells women to perform, please, and put their needs last. Here, we’re flipping the script. Your pleasure matters just as much as anyone else’s. You’re the prize, not the performance. If you’re not feeling it, you don’t have to fake it. Period.

Practical Intimacy Tips for Every Cycle Phase

• Try new things when you have energy

• Ask for what you need (gentle, playful, or simply rest)

• Give yourself permission to say no—or yes—without guilt

• Remember: making out is underrated, and solo pleasure is healing

You Deserve Support—Get the Free PMDD Survival Kit

Navigating PMDD and intimacy isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. I created the PMDD Survival Kit for women just like you—packed with practical strategies, emotional support, and lived-experience wisdom for your hardest days.

• 👉 Get Your PMDD Survival Kit Here!

(Instant relief, zero judgment, and real support—no email required.)

Stay Connected:

• Follow me on Instagram @theannapr & TikTok @theannapr for daily PMDD tips and women’s wellness content

• Listen to the Her Shift Podcast for honest conversations and expert advice

• Join the Her Shift community for deep healing work and exclusive PMDD support

You’re not broken. You’re cycling. And you deserve compassion, pleasure, and support—every single day.

With love,

Anna x