Hailey Bieber has revealed she has been secretly struggling with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) since welcoming her son Jack two years ago. The model, 29, shared her experience in a recent interview, noting that there is a significant lack of conversation and research surrounding the condition.
PMDD is described by Johns Hopkins Medicine as a much more severe form of premenstrual syndrome that can be linked to a serotonin deficiency. Bieber told WWD that discussing her diagnosis has helped alleviate feelings of loneliness.
"Conversation, for me personally, makes me feel less alone," she stated. "When we can identify with each other and have conversations relating to each other and [talk] about the things we're dealing with and struggling with, I do think it makes it feel like less of a lonely journey."
Bieber expressed a strong interest in women's health issues, citing that several loved ones also face under-researched conditions. Her sister, Alaia Baldwin, 33, experiences polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (formerly PCOS).
In support of women's health research, Bieber's company Rhode has pledged to donate $5 million to the Foundation For Women's Health over three years. This organization focuses on bridging gaps in research for women's health. The donation follows Rhode's acquisition by e.l.f. Beauty for $1 billion.
Katy Brodsky Falco, founder and executive director of the Foundation For Women's Health, highlighted the significance of Rhode's contribution, stating that the $5 million gift strongly communicates to young women that the gender equity gap in health research is unacceptable. She also noted the unparalleled visibility Rhode brings to the cause.
This is not the first health challenge Bieber has publicly addressed. In 2022, she experienced a mini-stroke and underwent heart surgery. She has previously spoken about that incident, describing a strange sensation traveling down her arm and numbness in her fingertips, which led to an inability to respond to her husband.
Bieber has stated that the mini-stroke incident made her more aware of her body and health. Her fascination with medicine also influenced her decision to start Rhode, with her interest in skincare stemming from her broader interest in medical science. Rhode was named one of TIME's Most Influential Companies in April.