Menstrual cycle can be a difficult time for a woman. It is a time when a woman’s body prepares for the possibility of pregnancy. It is regulated by hormonal fluctuations that occur in four key phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation and luteal phase. These hormonal shifts can affect mood, energy levels and physical well-being throughout the cycle.The hormonal fluctuations can also impact mental health significantly which eventually influences mood, cognition and emotional well-being. The changes in the oestrogen and progesterone levels affect neurotransmitters like serotonin which regulate mood, thereby, causing psychological changes. As a result, some women may have fluctuations in mental health throughout the cycle, with symptoms peaking just before menstruation.
Here, take a look at how hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycle can affect mental health. Mood SwingsDuring the menstrual cycle, the levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate which causes mood changes. When oestrogen peaks, it can help to improve mood and energy. However, when the level of oestrogen and progesterone hormone drops, particularly before menstruation, one might have feelings of sadness, irritability or anxiety. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)Many people experience PMS which can lead to mental health symptoms like irritability, fatigue and mood swings. This happens as a result of the natural hormonal changes leading up to menstruation, especially due to the drop in oestrogen and progesterone which can affect brain chemicals like serotonin. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)For some, PMS symptoms are more severe and can lead to a condition called PMDD. PMDD is a severe form of PMS with serious mental health effects, such as depression, intense anger, anxiety or irritability. It is linked to extreme hormonal sensitivity during the luteal phase of the cycle. Anxiety and Stress LevelsHormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can aggravate anxiety. Lower levels of progesterone in the luteal phase can increase feelings of stress or worry. High oestrogen levels can sometimes lead to feelings of nervousness, especially in those who are sensitive to hormonal changes. Sleep DisturbancesHormonal changes can also impact your sleep. A decrease in progesterone which has a calming effect can cause sleep problems in the second half of the menstrual cycle. Poor sleep can further lead to irritability, stress and anxiety, thereby, creating a cycle that impacts mental health. Cognitive Function Some poeple have difficulties with memory, concentration or focus, especially in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Hormonal shifts can reduce cognitive sharpness or lead to brain fog, thereby, daily tasks more challenging. Risk of DepressionPeople with pre-existing mental health conditions, like depression may notice that their symptoms tend to worsen at specific points in their cycle, especially during the luteal phase. Hormonal fluctuations can lower serotonin levels which are important for regulating mood, thereby, potentially making depressive symptoms worse.