When it was determined that Cathy Hope (Gabrielle Dowling) had PMDD, she recently received a definitive diagnosis on Emmerdale.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a severe variation of premenstrual syndrome that can result in a variety of distressing physical and emotional symptoms.
In Cathy’s instance, she has gone through mood swings and severe, uncontrollable rages. Other times, she has experienced extreme lows and anxiety, and she is currently having to repeat her senior year of high school because she was unable to sit for her exams due to her symptoms.
In a clip from tonight’s episode (September 14), Cathy, who has been warned her illness could last for decades, is frantic to find a solution. She comes up with something that leaves Bob (Tony Audenshaw) in disbelief.
Bob and Wendy (Susan Cookson), who have apparently just caught wind of Cathy’s bombshell, try to catch up with her as she makes her way to school.
Cathy claims that despite being prescribed antidepressants to assist her manage her problems, she hasn’t been taking them.
She insists that there is no point. “PMDD has only one known treatment.” Wendy cautions her that there is no cure, but Cathy is not about to heed her words of wisdom after recently learning of Wendy’s romance with Liam (Jonny McPherson).
Displays your knowledge. You’re only a nurse,” Cathy retorts angrily. Then she offers her suggested solution, which, to say it is extreme, would be an understatement.
I’ve made it clear what I want: to have my womb and ovaries removed. Online research has led Cathy to the conclusion that this drastic procedure would halt her periods.
To demonstrate that she is more than “just” a nurse, Wendy can’t help but use some medical jargon, but she wisely points out that Cathy is too young to be making such a decision and that only much older women typically do.
Wendy adds that no doctor would consent to perform the surgery on someone that young.
Bob tries to convince Cathy to make the choice “when you’re thinking a little clearer,” but she is in a difficult situation.
She screams, “I detest my life and you just don’t care!” her father is left speechless.
Will Bob be able to change his daughter’s mind?
These scenes will be shown tonight, September 14, at 7:30 p.m. on ITV1 and ITVX as part of Emmerdale.
