What causes mood swings in girls. How to cope with female mood fluctuations. When do mood swings indicate a more serious condition. What are effective treatments for managing mood swings in females. How do hormonal changes affect mood in women and girls. What lifestyle changes can help stabilize mood.

The Nature and Impact of Mood Swings in Females

Mood swings are characterized by significant shifts in emotional state that can occur suddenly and without apparent cause. These fluctuations are more intense than typical day-to-day mood changes and can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. For females, mood swings can be particularly prevalent due to hormonal fluctuations associated with various life stages and biological processes.

Understanding the nature of mood swings is crucial for effective management and treatment. These emotional rollercoasters can affect various aspects of life, including relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. Recognizing the signs and underlying causes of mood swings is the first step towards finding appropriate coping strategies and treatments.

Key Characteristics of Mood Swings

• Sudden onset of emotional changes
• Intensity beyond typical mood fluctuations
• May be unrelated to external events
• Can dissipate as quickly as they appear
• Often cyclical in nature, especially in females

Hormonal Causes of Mood Swings in Females

Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in mood swings experienced by females. These changes occur naturally throughout various stages of life, including the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. Understanding the hormonal basis of mood swings can help in developing targeted strategies for management and treatment.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Syndrome affects over 90% of females and can cause mood swings 1-2 weeks before menstruation. Why does PMS occur? The exact cause is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to the hormonal changes that take place before menstruation. Some women find relief from PMS symptoms through hormonal birth control methods, although finding the right type may require some trial and error.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD is a severe form of PMS that causes significant mood disturbances. How does PMDD differ from regular PMS? PMDD symptoms are more intense and can include severe irritability, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms typically improve soon after the period begins. Treatment options for PMDD may include specific types of hormonal birth control or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Pregnancy-Related Mood Swings

Mood swings are a common early sign of pregnancy, often occurring within the first few weeks after conception. These emotional fluctuations are caused by the rapid hormonal changes that occur during early pregnancy. Other early pregnancy symptoms may include missed periods, breast tenderness, fatigue, and nausea.

Menopausal Mood Changes

During perimenopause and menopause, fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone can lead to mood swings. These hormonal changes can affect serotonin production, influencing mood stability. Hormone replacement therapy and SSRIs are potential treatment options, but it’s important to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare provider.

Medical Conditions Associated with Mood Swings

While hormonal fluctuations are a common cause of mood swings in females, several medical conditions can also contribute to or exacerbate mood instability. Identifying these underlying conditions is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.

Premenstrual Symptom Exacerbation (PME)

PME occurs when preexisting mental or physical health conditions worsen before menstruation. This can result in significant mood changes similar to those experienced in mood swings. PME can affect various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and substance misuse disorders.

How does PME differ from PMDD? In PME, symptoms of the preexisting mood disorder are present throughout the hormonal cycle, while PMDD symptoms only appear between ovulation and menstruation. This distinction is important for determining appropriate treatment strategies.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings that alternate between manic highs and depressive lows. These mood episodes can last for days, weeks, or even months. While bipolar disorder affects both males and females, hormonal fluctuations in females can influence the frequency and severity of mood episodes.

Thyroid Disorders

Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause mood swings. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and hormone production, and imbalances can significantly affect mood and energy levels.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Mood Stability

While hormonal and medical factors play a significant role in mood swings, lifestyle choices can also impact emotional stability. Addressing these factors can help in managing mood fluctuations and improving overall well-being.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can help stabilize mood. Certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and magnesium, have been linked to improved mood regulation. Conversely, excessive caffeine, alcohol, and sugar intake can contribute to mood instability.

Sleep Patterns

Adequate, quality sleep is crucial for emotional regulation. Poor sleep patterns or sleep disorders can exacerbate mood swings and contribute to irritability and emotional instability.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can significantly impact mood stability. Developing effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity, can help in reducing the frequency and intensity of mood swings.

Coping Strategies for Managing Mood Swings

Developing effective coping strategies is essential for managing mood swings and minimizing their impact on daily life. These strategies can help individuals regain a sense of control over their emotions and improve overall quality of life.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals become more aware of their emotional states and develop better control over their reactions to mood changes. These techniques can also reduce stress and anxiety, which often contribute to mood instability.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on mood regulation. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and boost the production of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and endorphins.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mood swings. This technique can be particularly effective in managing mood disorders and developing healthier coping mechanisms.

Social Support

Building and maintaining strong social connections can provide emotional support during difficult times. Talking to friends, family, or support groups can help individuals feel less isolated and better equipped to handle mood fluctuations.

Treatment Options for Mood Swings in Females

When lifestyle changes and coping strategies are not sufficient to manage mood swings, various treatment options are available. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the mood swings and the individual’s specific needs.

Hormonal Treatments

For mood swings related to hormonal fluctuations, hormonal treatments may be beneficial. These can include:

• Hormonal birth control methods for PMS and PMDD
• Hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms
• Thyroid hormone replacement for thyroid disorders

Antidepressants and Mood Stabilizers

In cases where mood swings are associated with underlying mood disorders or severe PMS/PMDD, antidepressants or mood stabilizers may be prescribed. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat mood-related symptoms in females.

Psychotherapy

Various forms of psychotherapy can be effective in managing mood swings. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are some of the approaches that can help individuals develop better emotional regulation skills and coping strategies.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Some individuals find relief from mood swings through complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, or light therapy. While the effectiveness of these approaches may vary, they can be used in conjunction with conventional treatments under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Professional Help for Mood Swings

While occasional mood swings are a normal part of life, persistent or severe mood fluctuations may indicate an underlying condition that requires professional attention. Recognizing when to seek help is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Signs That Professional Help May Be Needed

• Mood swings that significantly impact daily functioning
• Persistent feelings of depression or anxiety
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Mood changes accompanied by physical symptoms
• Difficulty maintaining relationships due to mood instability

If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or mental health professional. They can help determine the underlying cause of your mood swings and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnostic Process

When seeking help for mood swings, healthcare providers may use various diagnostic tools to assess the nature and severity of the symptoms. This process may include:

1. A thorough medical history review
2. Physical examination
3. Blood tests to check hormone levels and rule out other medical conditions
4. Psychological evaluations
5. Mood tracking diaries

Based on the results of these assessments, healthcare providers can develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses the specific needs of the individual.

The Role of Hormones in Female Mood Regulation

Understanding the complex interplay between hormones and mood is crucial for comprehending the nature of mood swings in females. Hormones play a significant role in regulating various bodily functions, including emotional states and cognitive processes.

Key Hormones Affecting Mood

• Estrogen: Influences serotonin production and affects mood, sleep, and appetite
• Progesterone: Has a calming effect on the brain and can impact mood stability
• Cortisol: The stress hormone that can contribute to mood swings when levels are imbalanced
• Thyroid hormones: Regulate metabolism and can significantly impact mood when imbalanced

Hormonal Fluctuations Throughout the Female Lifespan

Females experience various hormonal changes throughout their lives, each of which can impact mood stability. These include:

1. Puberty: The onset of menstruation and associated hormonal changes
2. Monthly menstrual cycle: Regular fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels
3. Pregnancy and postpartum period: Dramatic hormonal shifts during and after pregnancy
4. Perimenopause and menopause: Declining estrogen and progesterone levels leading to various symptoms, including mood swings

Understanding these hormonal patterns can help individuals better predict and manage mood fluctuations throughout their lives.

The Hormone-Neurotransmitter Connection

Hormones can directly influence the production and activity of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain that regulate mood. For example, estrogen can enhance the effects of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and emotional well-being. When hormone levels fluctuate, it can lead to changes in neurotransmitter activity, potentially resulting in mood swings.

Empowering Women: Self-Advocacy and Education

Empowering women with knowledge about their bodies and hormonal cycles is crucial for effective management of mood swings. By understanding the underlying causes and available treatment options, women can become active participants in their healthcare decisions.

The Importance of Self-Monitoring

Encouraging women to track their moods, physical symptoms, and menstrual cycles can provide valuable insights into patterns and triggers of mood swings. This information can be helpful when discussing symptoms with healthcare providers and developing personalized treatment plans.

Breaking the Stigma

Open discussions about mood swings and hormonal health can help reduce the stigma surrounding these issues. By sharing experiences and knowledge, women can create supportive communities and advocate for better understanding and treatment of mood-related concerns.

Continuing Research and Advancements

Ongoing research into female hormonal health and mood disorders is crucial for developing more effective treatments and interventions. Staying informed about the latest advancements in this field can help women make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

As our understanding of mood swings in females continues to evolve, it’s essential to approach this topic with sensitivity and awareness. By combining medical knowledge, lifestyle interventions, and empowering education, we can work towards better management and treatment of mood swings, improving the quality of life for women across all stages of life.

What causes them and how to cope

Mood swings are significant changes in mood that come and go within a short space of time. They can happen to anyone, and have a range of causes.

In females, mood swings may occur as part of the typical hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. They can also be the result of medical conditions that require treatment.

Keep reading to learn more about mood swings in females, including the potential causes, treatments, and how to manage them.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

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Mood swings are significant shifts in a person’s emotional state. They can begin suddenly and without warning, and may dissipate just as quickly. They are different from the changes in mood people experience in everyday life.

It is natural for emotions to change over time. Sometimes, they may change rapidly in response to a shocking or upsetting situation. In people with mood swings, though, the change is typically more intense than this, and may be unrelated to life events.

There are several causes for mood swings that specifically affect females. These include:

Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a group of symptoms that can occur around 1–2 weeks before a period. Over 90% of females experience some premenstrual symptoms, which can include mood swings.

Other symptoms of PMS include:

• bloating
• headache
• tiredness
• food cravings
• swollen or tender breasts
• constipation or diarrhea
• sleeping more or less than usual

PMS happens because of the hormonal changes that take place before menstruation, but scientists do not understand why it affects some people more than others.

Some people find that certain types of hormonal birth control help to reduce significant PMS symptoms. But it may require trying several types to find one that helps.

Learn more about PMS.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe premenstrual condition that causes significant irritability, anxiety, or depression 1–2 weeks before a period starts. The symptoms typically get better soon after the period begins.

The symptoms can include:

• mood swings
• feeling angry and short-tempered
• feeling tense or anxious
• a lack of interest in things a person usually enjoys
• trouble focusing
• tiredness
• trouble sleeping
• feelings of despair or suicidal thoughts

Researchers are not sure what causes PMDD, but it may be related to changes in a person’s hormones or serotonin levels before a period. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that influences mood and cognition, among other things.

Treatment options include certain types of hormonal birth control or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In severe cases, some may consider inducing early menopause by taking medications, or undergoing surgery.

Learn more about PMDD.

Premenstrual symptom exacerbation

Sometimes, people with preexisting mental or physical health conditions find that their symptoms get worse before a period. This is known as premenstrual symptom exacerbation (PME). In those with mental health conditions, PME may cause significant mood changes that are similar to a mood swing.

Examples of conditions that may worsen due to PME include:

• anxiety
• depression
• eating disorders
• schizophrenia
• substance misuse disorders

PME and PMDD can seem similar, but a crucial difference between them is that with PME, the symptoms of a preexisting mood disorder will be present throughout the hormonal cycle. With PMDD, symptoms only appear between ovulation and menstruation.

This is important, as some treatments for PMDD – such as surgery to remove internal reproductive organs – will not work for PME.

Pregnancy

Mood swings are a common sign of pregnancy, and can begin during the first weeks after conception. Other early symptoms of pregnancy include:

• a missed period
• tender or swollen breasts
• tiredness
• food cravings
• nausea
• vomiting (morning sickness)
• heartburn
• more frequent urination

If pregnancy is a possibility, a person should purchase an over-the-counter pregnancy test or speak with a doctor.

Menopause

Menopause refers to the time when a person’s periods naturally stop. The phase before this is perimenopause, when a female’s reproductive hormones are starting to decline.

Perimenopause typically begins when someone reaches their early 40s, but it can sometimes start earlier. During this time, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, which can affect the production of serotonin. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including mood swings.

Hormone replacement therapy can boost low levels of estrogen and progesterone, while SSRIs may help to stabilize serotonin levels, which may help with mood. But these medications can have side effects, so it is important to discuss this with a doctor.

A condition known as primary ovarian insufficiency can also cause menopause-like symptoms, such as mood swings, at a much younger age.

Learn more about what to expect during menopause.

While mood swings can have hormonal causes, there are also a number of other causes that can affect people of any sex. These include:

• Puberty: When a person goes through puberty during adolescence, their hormonal levels change considerably. This can cause strong emotions and sudden shifts in mood that are more intense than usual.
• Mental health conditions: Some mental health conditions cause mood swings regardless of a person’s menstrual cycle. These include borderline personality disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, and cyclothymia. People with substance misuse disorders may also go through significant changes in mood as a result of using a particular drug, or stopping its use.
• Neurological conditions: People can develop mood changes as a result of conditions such as migraine, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and many more.
• Medications: Many medications can have a negative impact on mood as a side effect, including some of the drugs doctors use to treat mood-related disorders. Antidepressants, hormonal birth control, and steroids are a few examples. Sometimes the side effects are mild or wear off over time, but some people may find they do not.

It is important to discuss persistent or severe mood swings with a doctor so that they can identify the cause. They will start by asking questions about a person’s symptoms and medical history before moving on to diagnostic tests that give them more information.

They may perform:

• a physical examination
• blood tests to rule out common conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid conditions
• blood tests to see if a person might be pregnant, or if they are entering perimenopause

If there are signs the cause might be neurological, the doctor may also request medical imaging tests. If the cause could be part of a mental health condition, a person may benefit from an evaluation with a psychologist.

Keeping a symptom diary

Before an appointment, it may help to track mood swings in a diary. This can help doctors understand if the mood swings might be related to the menstrual cycle, or other factors.

Record when the mood swings happen, how long they last, and any other important details, such as stressful events or lack of sleep. Then, track the days when menstruation happens. Continue doing this over several months. People can do this in a notebook or period tracking app.

If mood swings happen more frequently in the fortnight before a period, it may indicate a premenstrual condition such as PMS or PMDD.

Mood swings can be disruptive and cause unpleasant feelings. Depending on the cause, it can be possible to reduce the impact they have on a person’s daily life and emotional well-being. A person may wish to try:

• Being self-compassionate: Sometimes, mood swings are unavoidable, and make someone feel down or irritable for no apparent reason. It may help to remember that this is very common, and that it is not the person’s fault that they have them.
• Practicing mindfulness: Mindfulness can help someone notice when their emotions change, which may help them to notice mood swings as they appear and fade away. People can practice mindfulness by journaling, through meditation, or by checking in with themselves throughout the day.
• Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and smoking: Caffeine and alcohol can both worsen PMS and menopause symptoms. People who smoke also experience more severe PMS symptoms compared with those who do not smoke.
• Getting enough sleep: Where possible, try to maintain a regular sleep schedule. A lack of sleep can worsen irritability, anxiety, depression, and fatigue (low energy).
• Trying relaxation techniques: Relaxation can reduce stress and improve sleep, which both have a positive impact on mood. Examples to try include breathing exercises, yoga, tai chi, or massage.
• Staying active: Physical activity increases the production of hormones that can boost a person’s mood.
• Doing enjoyable activities: Try to continue activities that are enjoyable, even if a mood swing is making it more difficult. Spending time in nature, creative hobbies, gardening, and listening to music can have a positive impact on well-being.

While mild or moderate mood swings are common in females who experience PMS, they should not be long-lasting, occur throughout the month, or significantly affect a person’s ability to function. Mood swings that do may be a sign of another condition that requires medical attention.

It is important to speak with a doctor about mood swings, particularly if they are new, severe, or persistent. If mood swings are impacting a person’s mental health, the person may also benefit from speaking with a therapist.

If mood swings are causing a person to have suicidal thoughts, they should speak with a doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible.

Do not alter types or doses of prescription medications before speaking with a doctor.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

• Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
• Listen to the person without judgment.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
• Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
• Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

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Mood swings are short-term emotional shifts that are more intense than the typical changes people experience in daily life. They can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.

Mood swings in females can be the result of PMS, PMDD, PME, pregnancy, and menopause. Females can also experience mood swings as a result of conditions that affect all sexes, such as mental health conditions. A doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend treatments.

Causes, No Reason, and Natural Treatments

What is a shift in mood?

If you’ve ever felt angry or frustrated within moments of feeling happy or elated, you may have experienced a shift in mood These sudden and dramatic changes in emotion may seem as if they come on for no reason. However, there are a few common causes that may be responsible.

Many conditions and lifestyle choices can cause women to experience severe changes in mood. These include:

Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms that occur in women 1 to 2 weeks before a period. In addition to mood shifts, PMS can cause fatigue, changes in appetite, depression, bloating, and more. The majority of women — 90 percent — experience some PMS-like symptoms before their periods. The severity of these symptoms may change from month to month. They may get worse or improve with age.

It’s unclear why this premenstrual period causes these symptoms. Researchers suspect that shifts in the hormone estrogen are most likely to blame. In the days and weeks before a period, a woman’s estrogen levels rise and fall dramatically. They level out 1 to 2 days after menstruation begins. These shifts may affect mood and behavior.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe and rare type of PMS. PMDD affects up to 5 percent of women of childbearing age. Symptoms of PMDD include extreme shifts in mood, severe depression, extreme irritability, and more.

Lifestyle treatments alone are rarely enough to treat PMDD. Many women will combine alternative treatments — like stress management and dietary changes — with medication in order to find relief from symptoms, including extreme shifts in mood.

Stress

Stress and worry impact your body and health in a variety of unhealthy ways. One such area can be your mood. Frustrations, worry, and a constant state of stress can lead to severe shifts in mood, along with other psychological issues.

Psychiatric causes

Psychological disorders and behavioral conditions can affect disposition and cause symptoms like shifts in mood. These disorders include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, bipolar disorder, and more. Treating these conditions will most likely ease the symptoms of extreme mood shifts and any other symptoms you may be experiencing.

Hormone imbalances

Estrogen may play a role in PMS-related shifts in mood, but other hormones can affect mood, too. Hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, is a common hormone disorder. It can affect mood and cause other symptoms.

Puberty

Puberty is a time of emotional, physical, and psychological changes in a child’s life. Mood shifts and unexplained emotional reactions can be common during this phase of life.

Pregnancy

Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to changes in emotions and mood. Plus, pregnant women often experience physical changes and emotional stress that can make issues like mood shifts and emotional outpourings more severe.

Menopause

Another major transition in life, menopause, is associated with a period of mood shifts. As levels of estrogen fall, many women experience a variety of symptoms, including changes in mood, hot flashes, insomnia, and reduced sex drive. Some doctors will provide perimenopausal women with hormone replacement drugs to help the ease into the low-estrogen phase of life.

It’s possible to stabilize your mood and improve your health in order to avoid future shifts in mood and emotions. The following treatments for changes in mood focus on lifestyle or alternative treatments you can try at home. Other treatments, including prescription medicines, are sometimes used.

Get regular exercise

Moving and exercising are great for your physical and mental health. They can also help you treat or avoid shifts in mood. When you exercise, your body produces feel-good hormones and endorphins that can help alleviate stress and boost mood. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 days per week.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugar

These stimulants and depressants can alter your natural state, making mood shifts worse or causing them in the first place. Sure, caffeine can make you feel less fatigued, but it can also exacerbate anxiety and nervousness.

Alcohol is a depressant that can worsen bad moods or make you behave irrationally. Sugary foods, while delicious, can cause swings in your blood sugar level. These fluctuations may cause shifts in mood and other symptoms. Cut back as much as you can on all three foods in order to maintain stable moods.

Try calcium supplements

Studies suggest that calcium supplements may help ease symptoms of depression, anxiety, and emotional fluctuation from PMS. In one study, participants were given 500 milligrams of calcium daily for 2 months. After two periods, those who had received the supplement showed much less severe PMS symptoms.

In addition to helping with shifts in mood, calcium supplements may help protect bones from deterioration; this is especially important for perimenopausal women. Talk with your doctor about the right supplement for you.

Change your diet

Eating large meals three times per day may be traditional, but eating smaller meals may be better for mood stability. That’s because blood sugar shifts following large meals may contribute to emotional shifts. Smaller meals, divided throughout the day, may help stabilize your blood sugar to keep these extreme shifts in mood at bay.

Practice stress management

Stress and anxiety can make symptoms of several conditions, including PMS, worse. If you’re worried, taxed, or otherwise strained, learning to manage the stress can help you avoid complications, including changes in mood. Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga are all proven to help manage stress. Massage therapy or talk therapy may also be highly beneficial.

Get better sleep

A good night’s sleep can cure a lot of ills, including irritability and extreme changes in mood. Aim for 7 to 8 hours per night. If that seems too daunting, try to add just 30 extra minutes by turning in half an hour earlier than you normally would. When you’ve managed that, try adding 30 minutes more. The additional shut-eye will add up in healthy, beneficial ways.

Severe changes in mood happen from time to time. Whether it’s because of a period or due to increased stress from work, many factors can contribute to these shifts in mood and attitude. However, finding healthy ways to cope with them can help reduce the risk for future mood changes.

If your shifts in mood interfere with your day or you think they’re becoming more problematic, talk with your healthcare provider. While many of the underlying causes for mood shifts are easy to diagnose and treat, some others may require additional treatment. This may include prescription medication.

Mood swings in women, disorders

Contents

• Symptoms of mood swings
• Types of mood swings
• Causes of mood swings in women
  • What causes mood swings and mood swings in women

  90 006

• Mood swings and cycles
  • Treatment mood swings in women

Women’s frequent mood swings are both a joke and a cause for concern. And mood swings often indicate violations in the functioning of body systems. They bring a lot of inconvenience to a woman’s life: emotional instability does not allow her to reasonably cope with stress, does not make it possible to make the right impression on relatives, colleagues, partners. Mood swings should not be ignored – this is fraught with a deterioration in these manifestations, and is also dangerous to health. After all, we can talk about a serious hormonal imbalance or the presence of a mental disorder.

Men can also suffer from mood swings – from aggression to apathy, from joy to sadness – but, oddly enough, the representatives of the stronger sex are less prone to emotional swings.

In this material, we talk about how frequent mood swings can manifest themselves, what causes them, how to competently approach diagnostic issues, and how we, doctors at the Marina Ryabus clinic, help patients cope with this problem. An expert commentary on the material is given by a gynecologist Ekaterina Nikolaevna Kozlova.

Gynecologist, oncologist, surgeon

Mood swings in women can be observed at different age periods and, as a rule, in addition to external factors, hormonal levels are of great importance. During periods of greatest hormonal changes, such as puberty, postpartum or premenopausal, these drops are observed more often. It is important that a woman does not accept this as the norm, but turns to a gynecologist who would help her with the selection of corrective therapy. In one case, this may be a recommendation of a behavioral nature (sleep and wakefulness, nutrition, physical activity), in the other, the appointment of supplementation therapy or hormonal drugs. Quite often, in young active women, a bad mood is accompanied by a feeling of constant fatigue, despite a good rest. This is an alarming symptom of chronic stress, which leads to “exhaustion” of the adrenal glands and long rehabilitation therapy.

Symptoms of mood swings

The main sign of mood swings is an inadequate response to circumstances. In other words, a situation in which a calm person would act rationally will cause an inadequately intense or, conversely, passive reaction in a person with sharp mood swings. Emotional instability is manifested by:

• decrease in concentration;
• appetite disorders;
• tearfulness;
• hysteria;
• drowsiness;
• sleep disorders, insomnia;
• nervousness;
• lethargy;
• performance degradation.

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Types of mood swings

Globally, mood swings are usually divided into:

1. cyclothymic – affective disorders associated with a sharp transition from high spirits to apathy;
2. depressive – chronic mood disorders associated with illness, medication, hormonal levels, etc. ;
3. bipolar – constant mood swings, from a depressive state to inspiration on the verge of euphoria.

Cyclothymic disorders include two types of disorders – hypothymic and hyperthymic manifestations. In the first case, we are talking about situations of apathy, depression, uncertainty, dissatisfaction. In the second – about cases of increased activity, strong excitability, a small amount of sleep, etc. The essence of cyclothymic disorders is the inevitable cyclical transition from one state to another.

Depressive states are temporary, due to external causes associated with changes in hormonal levels, trauma. Depression can develop while taking medications. The hallmarks of depressive mood swings are feelings of being overwhelmed, empty, insecure, and unwilling to do anything. In other words, the patient loses the taste for life.

Bipolar disorders are conditions in which a person abruptly changes from a period of activity and creation to a period of apathy and unwillingness to do anything.

The types of mood disorders listed above are typical for both women and men. In this material, we will pay attention to the fair sex.

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Causes of mood swings in women

What causes changes in mood and condition in women

Women who complain about an unstable emotional state are not always able to answer the question of what exactly caused the shaky mood, excessive emotionality, or, conversely, sudden cold equanimity. Sometimes the cause of mood swings becomes stress – the accumulated stress results in depression and apathy; situational stress can provoke aggression or other format of violent reaction. Stressful situations are sometimes perceived by a woman as the primary source of mood problems. But not all women can understand that they are really stressed. They complain about their well-being and condition, while arguing that everything is in order in their life and where these “swings” of mood come from is unknown.

Emotional instability is inherent in women with thyroid diseases . Their specificity causes instability of the psyche, often causes lethargy, low concentration, drowsiness.

Hormonal imbalance in general is the basis for emotional surges. That is why instability is characteristic of girls in their teens, pregnant and lactating women, women in menopause. A change in the hormonal background during ovulation and before menstruation also provokes increased emotionality and sensitivity (by the way, physical too. That is why we do not recommend patients with hypersensitivity to undergo cosmetic procedures on the days of ovulation and menstruation). HRT (hormone replacement therapy), chosen incorrectly, also has a negative effect on a woman’s balance.

Mood swings can be provoked by taking hormonal oral contraceptives – at the stage of drug selection or with prolonged use of an unsuitable drug.

Irregular or insufficient sex life can also affect a woman’s mental and emotional state. In addition, rare sex is a risk factor for the development of many gynecological diseases.

Everyone knows that bad habits (alcohol, smoking, drug use) “shatter” the psyche, disrupting neural connections, putting an excessive burden on the nervous system, liver, and heart. As a result, anxiety, suspiciousness, panic states and other unpleasant manifestations.

Lack of physical activity, lack of sleep, high mental load – these factors also provoke instability of emotions.

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Mood swings and cycles

Treatment of mood swings in women

To treat mood swings in women at different ages, you need to understand what exactly to treat, and this requires an extensive diagnosis. Arriving at an appointment at the Marina Ryabus clinic, the patient talks with a doctor – a gynecologist, an endocrinologist, the doctor collects an anamnesis, conducts an examination, ultrasound and other studies. Tests are prescribed, which you can take right at our clinic. We work with trusted laboratories, the best in Moscow, in terms of expertise level of diagnostics. According to the results of research in the body, violations, imbalances, pathologies are revealed. Treatment is prescribed based on the age of the patient, her reproductive plans, concomitant diseases. For control, it is necessary to visit the clinic according to the doctor’s instructions – usually once every few months.

We invite you to a consultation at our clinic to address issues related to mood swings. In the clinic of anti-aging medicine of Marina Ryabus, a gynecologist-endocrinologist, oncologist Ekaterina Nikolaevna Kozlova sees her. The doctor has extensive experience in prescribing complex laboratory diagnostics with a detailed interpretation of the results and the subsequent prescription of therapy and supplementation.

For an appointment call: +7 (499) 588-81-47; . You can also contact the administrators of the clinic in Whatsapp, Telegram, Viber by phone: +7 (925) 397-71-30. To receive a call back from the clinic, fill out the feedback form on the website.

Marina Ryabus Clinic is a center of smart cosmetology, holistic approach and comprehensive anti-aging medicine. By joining us, you make a choice in favor of resource-restoring and organ-saving technologies!

Mood swings

Menopause

Climax

14379

25-th of August

Mood is usually called a stable emotional state of a person, which determines his perception of reality.

A stable positive attitude is the basis for health, and frequent mood swings disrupt not only the mental, but also the physiological activity of a person.

Human emotions are diverse, and their occurrence is regulated by several hormones:

• serotonin, or pleasure hormone, is responsible for good mood, increases optimism and revives hope;
• dopamine, or the hormone of motivation and joy, contributes to the feeling of pleasure;
• adrenaline, a stress hormone, causes rage, anger, tension and fear;
• endorphins – hormones of joy and euphoria;
• phenylethylamine is responsible for falling in love and romantic experiences;
• for confidence in victory – testosterone;
• Oxytocin, the hormone of trust and tenderness, which plays an important role during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, causes a tender attachment to loved ones in a person’s heart.

The production and metabolism of hormones entail a chain of complex sequential reactions that enable a person to make certain decisions. A number of hormones have a serious impact on the functioning of the brain.

Any disruption in the hormone-brain circuit can lead to uncontrolled mood swings and cause unmotivated behavior.

Possible causes

Abrupt and unreasonable mood swings can be caused by physiological and pathological factors.

Physiological reasons. If hormonal fluctuations are considered as the causes of mood swings, then a person is exposed to them throughout life: during growth, maturation, in the reproductive and post-reproductive periods. These are physiological cycles of development, and the body independently copes with hormonal changes.

The first period of powerful hormonal adjustment becomes adolescence . At this moment, the production of sex hormones increases sharply, which can cause unjustified aggression in boys, a desire to lead and prove the right to their own opinion. In girls, the production of estrogens, which affect mood swings, occurs cyclically and may be associated with the irregularity of menstruation during puberty. Psychological factors affecting the mood of adolescents are associated with difficulties in adequately perceiving one’s body: a changed figure can cause irritation, despondency, and shame. This reaction is typical for girls. A change in testosterone levels in adolescents of both sexes contributes to the development of an unmotivated sense of protest, increased demands on others, emotional overexcitation, and reduced criticism of one’s own actions.

It is very important during this period not to miss the signs of latent depression, which is difficult to diagnose because of the variety of its forms and symptoms.

When diagnosing depressive conditions, somatic symptoms come to the fore, that is, complaints about a state of health disorder, problems in the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, as well as a sharp change in mood. Sometimes mood swings get out of control and cause an emotional overreaction.

After the establishment of a regular menstrual cycle, monthly fluctuations in the hormonal background can cause premenstrual syndrome , manifested by a deterioration in well-being and a sharp change in mood.

A pronounced premenstrual syndrome negatively affects the daily activity of a woman, causes physical and emotional problems, and reduces the quality of life.

The main manifestations of premenstrual syndrome include fluid retention in the body and swelling due to increased levels of prolactin, mood swings, irritability, tearfulness, and fatigue due to impaired serotonin metabolism. Increased production of prostaglandins leads to headache, swelling and swelling of the mammary glands.

During pregnancy , especially in the first trimester, a woman’s mood and health are directly dependent on hormonal balance. During this period, the main complaints are irritability, resentment, and sudden mood swings. After the fourth month of pregnancy, the woman’s emotional background stabilizes.

Big troubles are brought by postpartum depression , which can be accompanied not only by a depressed emotional state, but also by suicidal attacks.

If mood swings disturbed a woman in the first trimester of pregnancy, the likelihood of postpartum depression increases significantly.

Menopausal syndrome is another emotional period in a woman’s life when mood can be determined by changes in hormonal levels. Vegetovascular manifestations (hot flashes, sweating, blood pressure surges) may be associated with endocrine diseases (metabolic syndrome, thyroid disease) and emotional and mental disorders (mood swings, tearfulness, irritability, fatigue).

In men, age-related hormonal changes can also be accompanied by emotional instability: they become more irritable and aggressive. Mood swings in men tend to be less pronounced.

Pathological causes . A hormonal imbalance that causes sudden mood swings can occur with thyroid diseases, most often with thyrotoxicosis. In this case, an excess of the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine (T4 and T3) leads to malfunctions in the body. Diseases that cause increased production of thyroid hormones include diffuse toxic goiter, multinodular toxic goiter, etc. The instability of the emotional background in thyroid pathologies is accompanied by symptoms of cardiovascular diseases (arrhythmias, increased blood pressure), pathologies of the musculoskeletal system (muscle atrophy , osteoporosis), impaired functioning of the nervous system.

Along with increased excitability and anxiety, patients with hyperthyroidism complain of emotional instability, rapid mood swings, irritability and tearfulness.

Sleep disorders can be both a cause and a consequence of a sudden change in mood and psychological instability.

Mental disorders are often accompanied by emotional instability. A striking example is bipolar affective disorder .

Bipolar disorder is characterized by a sudden change in mood, from intense arousal to depression.

The causes of this disease are not fully understood, but experts prefer the genetic theory. With age, the mental disorder worsens, the duration of periods of depression increases.

An unmotivated change of mood can be observed in persons suffering from psychopathy (most often hysterical), and in people with borderline personality disorder . In these cases, a sharp change in mood is accompanied by other signs of altered behavior (theatricality, a tendency to lie, exaggeration).

Drug dependence on hormones and psychoactive substances taken is another cause of severe mood swings.

With the regular use of alcohol and drugs, the joy and excitement after their use is suddenly replaced by depression or anger.

An unmotivated change in mood can be observed with hormonal therapy for oncological diseases and .

Which doctors to contact

Mood swings due to physiological causes do not require medical intervention. If depression persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should first consult with
the therapist who will determine the plan for the diagnostic search.

If the cause of emotional instability is associated with hormonal changes in the female body, consultation is recommended
gynecologist-endocrinologist, and if a man experiences these symptoms –
urologist-andrologist. If thyroid disease is suspected, visit
endocrinologist. If the patient’s hormonal background is not disturbed, consultation is necessary
neurologist or psychoneurologist.

Diagnosis and examination

Finding the cause of extreme mood swings is quite difficult. With the cyclical repetition of episodes of emotional instability and their coincidence with the onset of menstruation or menopause, the diagnosis can be made on the basis of the results of tests for sex hormones: estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, anti-Mullerian hormone.

Estradiol (E2, Estradiol)

Synonyms: Blood test for estradiol. 17-beta-estradiol.
Brief description of the analyte Estradiol
Estradiol is a steroid hormone with maximum estrogen…

Up to 1 business day

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715 RUB

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Progesterone

Synonyms: Progestin; Gestagen. P4; Pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione.

Brief description of the analyte Progesterone

Progesterone is produced in the ovaries and in a small…

Up to 1 business day

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705 RUB

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Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Synonyms: Glycoprotein gonadotropic hormone; luteotropin; Lutropin. luteinizing hormone; LH; Lutropin; Interstitial cell stimulating hormone; ICSH.

Brief characteristic determined …

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715 RUB

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Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Synonyms: Blood test for FSH; Follitropin. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone; follitropin; FSH.

Brief description of the analyte Follicle-stimulating hormone

…

Up to 1 business day

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715 RUB

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Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH, Mullerian Inhibiting Substance, MIS)

Synonyms: Blood test for AMH; Mueller inhibitor.

Anti-Müllerian hormone; AMH; Müllerian inhibiting factor; MIF; Müllerian-inhibiting hormone; M.I.H.; Müllerian-inhibiting substance; MIS.

Short…

Up to 2 business days

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RUB 1,670

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With the appearance of emotional instability, which is accompanied by arrhythmia, trembling fingers, sweating, tests for thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH) and antibodies to thyroglobulin (AT-TG) are necessary.

Free triiodothyronine (Free T3, Free Triiodthyronine, FT3)

Synonyms: Free triiodothyronine.
Free T3.
Brief description of the test substance Triiodothyronine free
Free triiodothyronine (T3free) belongs to the thyroid …

Up to 1 business day

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RUB 685

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Free thyroxine (Free T4, Free Thyroxine, FT4)

Free thyroxine not bound to blood plasma transport proteins.
Synonyms: Blood test for free thyroxine. Free T4; Free Form of Thyroxin.
Short description …

Up to 1 business day

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665 RUB

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Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

A pituitary hormone that regulates thyroid function. One of the most important tests in the laboratory diagnosis of thyroid diseases.

Synonym…

Up to 1 business day

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620 RUB

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Thyroglobulin Antibodies (AT-TG, Anti-Thyroglobulin Autoantibodies, Thyroglobulin Antibodies)

Synonyms: Blood test for AT-TG; Antibodies to TG; ATTG; AntiTG; Anti-TG. Tg Autoantibody; TgAb; Anti-Tg Ab; ATG.

Brief description of the study “Antibodies to thyroglobulin&ra…

Up to 1 business day

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790 RUB

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Diagnosis of mental disorders is complex and is based not so much on laboratory tests as on behavioral characteristics and symptoms of the disease. If you suspect the abuse of narcotic and psychotropic substances, you can ask the patient to take a urine test for toxic substances – a set of studies “Bad Habits”.

When pregnancy occurs, a study of chorionic gonadotropin, a specific hormone of pregnancy, is recommended; Ultrasound study.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG, beta-hCG, b-hCG, Human Chorionic)

Synonyms: Beta-hCG general.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin; hCG; Pregnancy Quantitative hCG; Beta hCG; Total beta hCG.

Brief description of the analyte Human Chorionic Gonadotropin…

Up to 1 business day

Available with house call

RUB 685

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Ultrasound diagnosis of pregnancy

Examination to confirm pregnancy and determine the site of attachment of the ovum (to exclude ectopic pregnancy).

RUB 2,390

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Treatment

You can cope with mood swings only after finding out their causes, consulting with specialists and treating the underlying disease.

What to do

Mood swings observed in adolescents require daily attention and patience from relatives. If a feeling of depression, sleep disturbance, tearfulness are combined with somatic ailments (headache, pain in the abdomen, muscles) and a desire to isolate oneself from the outside world, one should definitely consult a child with a psychoneurologist.

To improve your mood, you should lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

You need a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep. Attention to your mood is a simple rule of taking care of your own health.

Sources:

1. A.V. Vasilieva, T.B. Morgunova, Yu.P. Sych, A.S. Thyrotoxicosis after childbirth: difficulties in differential diagnosis. Medical business. 2020;1:97-100. DOI: 10.24411/2071-5315-2020-12200
2. Menopausal hormone therapy and maintaining the health of women of mature age. Clinical guidelines (Protocols). Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. 2014.
3. Clinical guidelines “Depressive episode, recurrent depressive disorder”. Developed by: Russian Society of Psychiatrists. – 2021.
4. Tokareva D.V., Dikareva E.S., Zakirova I.I. Psychiatric disorders developing against the background of neurosurgical diseases. Bulletin of Medical Internet Conferences (ISSN 2224-6150). 2019;9(5).

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.