Vicky Pattison has spoken out about what she describes as years of being "gaslit by doctors," claiming repeated misdiagnoses delayed the discovery of her Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
The former Geordie Shore star, 37, revealed she suffered from a range of debilitating symptoms for half a decade, including intense mood swings, crippling cramps, rage and even suicidal thoughts.
Despite repeatedly raising concerns with her GP, Pattison said she was told she was simply “more sensitive” than the average woman and advised to take antidepressants or lose weight.
It wasn’t until three years ago that she turned to a private doctor as a last resort and was finally diagnosed with PMDD, a condition that affects mood and physical wellbeing in the weeks before a period. She said the diagnosis left her in “tears of pure relief.”
Pattinson shared her thoughts on why the UK healthcare system is failing women, including herself.
She told The Sun: “Women are so often the punching bags. At the moment, the healthcare system is telling women that their pain, suffering and debilitating conditions do not matter.”
Pattison also appeared on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday.
During her interview, GMB shared data that showed that three in five women have experienced reproductive health problems, yet a third waited more than a year for a diagnosis.
Over half reported receiving a misdiagnosis, while 51% said they had felt dismissed by a medical professional.
Pattinson said of her own story: “When I hit my 30s, my period symptoms started becoming increasingly heightened. In some of my more intense and darker moments, I had suicidal thoughts.
“I knew what I was experiencing couldn't be right — it was just so debilitating. But for five years, I was repeatedly dismissed by my doctors.”
She now describes her PMDD symptoms as worsening with age, admitting she feels “anxious, emotional, exhausted, and unrecognisable” in 10 days leading up to her period.
Despite finally getting answers, Pattison says her experience is far from unique - and is urging for systemic change to prevent other women from enduring similar battles for recognition and care.
According to mental health charity Mind, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe and often debilitating form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
The hormone-related mood disorder can cause intense emotional and physical symptoms such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, irritability and physical pain that significantly disrupt a person’s daily life, especially in the weeks leading up to menstruation.
Pattison said receiving a diagnosis was a crucial first step, but her journey is far from over.
She continues to search for effective treatment, describing her condition as “uncontrollable.”
Now, she’s taking her fight beyond the personal. Pattison has contacted Health Secretary Wes Streeting, urging him to review GMB’s findings and take action.
She is also calling for improved education around women’s health in schools, better training for GPs, and stronger workplace support for those living with conditions like PMDD.
While she recognises that Streeting is “a busy man,” Pattison stressed that ignoring her message is akin to dismissing countless women across the country. “It feels like our quality of life doesn’t matter,” she said.
Before the end of the show, Ed Balls confirmed: “We can confirm that Wes Streeting will be meeting Vicky Pattison. He has confirmed through the health department that he is going to be in touch with her today. The meeting is on, Vicky Pattison get ready to come back on GMB soon!”
