How do hormonal fluctuations affect women’s mood throughout the menstrual cycle. What are the key symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). How can perimenopausal depression impact women’s well-being.

The Impact of Hormonal Fluctuations on Women’s Mood

The menstrual cycle is a complex interplay of hormones that can significantly influence a woman’s emotional state. Throughout the different phases of the cycle, hormonal fluctuations can trigger various mood changes, ranging from mild irritability to severe depression. Understanding these mood disorders is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which plays a vital role in regulating mood. This interaction between hormones and brain chemistry can lead to emotional instability in some women, particularly during the luteal phase of the cycle.

Common Mood Changes Throughout the Menstrual Cycle

• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Depressed mood
• Emotional sensitivity
• Difficulty concentrating

Do these mood changes affect all women equally? While many women experience some degree of emotional fluctuation during their menstrual cycle, the severity and impact vary greatly from person to person. Some women may barely notice any changes, while others might find their daily lives significantly disrupted.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Symptoms and Impact

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common condition affecting a large percentage of women during their reproductive years. It is characterized by a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to menstruation.

Can PMS symptoms interfere with daily life? For many women, PMS symptoms can be mild and manageable. However, some may experience more severe symptoms that can disrupt their personal and professional lives. The intensity of symptoms can vary from cycle to cycle and may change throughout a woman’s lifetime.

Key Symptoms of PMS

1. Mood swings
2. Irritability
3. Fatigue
4. Bloating
5. Breast tenderness
6. Headaches
7. Food cravings

Is there a way to alleviate PMS symptoms? While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, many women find relief through lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stress management techniques, and dietary modifications. In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers or hormonal contraceptives may be recommended by healthcare providers to manage symptoms.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A More Severe Form of PMS

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a more severe and debilitating form of PMS that affects approximately 5-10% of women in their reproductive years. PMDD is characterized by intense mood disturbances that can significantly impact relationships and daily functioning.

Are the symptoms of PMDD different from PMS? While PMDD shares many symptoms with PMS, the emotional and mood-related symptoms are typically more severe and disruptive. Women with PMDD often experience clinical levels of depression or anxiety during the week or two before menstruation.

Distinguishing Features of PMDD

• Severe mood swings
• Intense feelings of depression or hopelessness
• Extreme anxiety or tension
• Persistent irritability or anger
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Difficulty concentrating
• Significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns

How is PMDD diagnosed? Diagnosis of PMDD typically involves tracking symptoms over at least two menstrual cycles. A key feature of PMDD is that symptoms are present only during the luteal phase of the cycle and resolve with the onset of menstruation. It’s important to note that symptoms should be absent between ovulation and the next menstrual period.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis in Menstrually Related Mood Disorders

Accurate diagnosis of menstrually related mood disorders is crucial for effective treatment. It’s estimated that approximately 40% of women who seek treatment for PMDD actually have a premenstrual exacerbation of an underlying mood disorder rather than PMDD itself.

Why is differentiating between PMDD and other mood disorders important? Distinguishing between PMDD and other mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, is essential for developing an appropriate treatment plan. The timing and pattern of symptoms play a crucial role in making this distinction.

Key Factors in Diagnosing Menstrually Related Mood Disorders

1. Timing of symptoms in relation to the menstrual cycle
2. Severity and nature of mood disturbances
3. Presence or absence of symptoms during the follicular phase
4. Impact on daily functioning and relationships
5. Family history of mood disorders

How can women accurately track their symptoms? Keeping a detailed symptom diary for at least two menstrual cycles can help healthcare providers make an accurate diagnosis. This diary should include information about the timing, severity, and duration of both physical and emotional symptoms.

Treatment Options for Menstrually Related Mood Disorders

Treatment for menstrually related mood disorders often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication. The specific approach depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual needs of each woman.

What are the most effective treatments for PMDD? While treatment can vary, some common approaches include:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Hormonal contraceptives
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, stress management)
• Supplements (e.g., calcium, vitamin B6)

Can oral contraceptives help with PMDD symptoms? Recent research has shown that certain oral contraceptives may be effective in reducing the severity of PMDD symptoms. A study conducted at the University of North Carolina found that a specific formulation of birth control pills could provide relief for women suffering from severe PMS or PMDD.

Perimenopausal Depression: Navigating the Transition to Menopause

Perimenopause, the transitional period leading up to menopause, can be a time of increased vulnerability to depression for many women. This phase is characterized by significant hormonal fluctuations that can impact mood and overall well-being.

What are the key symptoms of perimenopausal depression? Common symptoms include:

• Emotional flatness
• Irritability
• Social isolation
• Decreased energy
• Loss of enjoyment in normal activities
• “Inability to cope” with daily stressors

Why might perimenopause increase the risk of depression? The dramatic hormonal changes during this time, particularly fluctuations in estrogen levels, can affect neurotransmitter function in the brain. This, combined with the physical symptoms of perimenopause and potential life stressors, may contribute to an increased risk of depression.

Managing Perimenopausal Depression

1. Hormone replacement therapy (when appropriate)
2. Antidepressant medications
3. Psychotherapy
4. Lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, healthy diet)
5. Stress reduction techniques (e.g., mindfulness, yoga)

Is hormone replacement therapy effective for perimenopausal depression? While the use of hormone replacement therapy remains controversial, some studies suggest that estrogen replacement may help prevent depression in perimenopausal women. However, this treatment option should be carefully considered and discussed with a healthcare provider, as it may not be suitable for all women.

The Role of Genetic Factors in Menstrually Related Mood Disorders

Recent research has shed light on the potential genetic component of menstrually related mood disorders, particularly PMDD. Understanding the hereditary aspects of these conditions can provide valuable insights into their underlying mechanisms and potential treatment approaches.

Is there a genetic predisposition to PMDD? A study conducted at the University of North Carolina found evidence of a hereditary link to premenstrual depression. This research suggests that certain genetic variations may make some women more susceptible to developing PMDD.

Implications of Genetic Research on PMDD

• Improved understanding of the biological basis of PMDD
• Potential for developing more targeted treatments
• Identification of at-risk individuals
• Enhanced ability to differentiate PMDD from other mood disorders

How might genetic research impact future treatments for PMDD? As our understanding of the genetic factors influencing PMDD grows, it may lead to the development of more personalized treatment approaches. This could include targeted therapies that address specific genetic vulnerabilities or hormonal sensitivities.

The complex interplay between hormones, genetics, and mood in women’s health continues to be an area of active research. As our understanding of menstrually related mood disorders evolves, so too do the options for diagnosis, treatment, and management of these conditions. By raising awareness and promoting open dialogue about these issues, we can help ensure that women receive the support and care they need throughout their reproductive years and beyond.

Menstrually Related Mood Disorders – Center for Women’s Mood Disorders

Menstrually-related mood disorders are mood disorders associated with the menstrual cycle. Menopause and cycles of menstruation are time of intense hormonal fluctuation that can cause increased vulnerability to depression. Perimenopausal Depression, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are menstrually-related mood disorders treated in our program.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Perimenopausal Depression

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Many women experience symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). In some instances the mood symptoms and emotional components of PMS are the most troubling. To women in such cases, PMS is often referred to as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a more severe form of PMS, affecting 5-10% of women in their reproductive years. In contrast to PMS, PMDD is characterized by more significant premenstrual mood disturbance that can seriously impact relationships and impair functioning. Many women with PMDD experience clinical levels of depression or anxiety during the week or two before each menstrual cycle. It is not uncommon that the emotional symptoms of depression anxiety and irritability can seriously interfere with normal functioning and relationships.

Common symptoms include: irritability, depressed mood, anxiety, or mood swings. Mood symptoms are only present for a specific period of time, during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Symptoms emerge one to two weeks before menses and resolve completely with the onset of menses. Women with PMDD should experience a symptom-free interval between menses and ovulation. An estimated 40% of women who seek treatment for PMDD actually have a premenstrual exacerbation of an underlying mood disorder rather than PMDD. Therefore, it is important for patients to be carefully evaluated for the presence of an underlying mood disorder in order to develop the best treatment plan.

For more information:

Watch these videos about PMDD:
The Biology behind PMDD
Oral Contraceptive relief for PMDD

Or read these articles about PMDD research at UNC:
Oral Contraceptives May Ease Suffering of Women with Severe PMS
Study finds hereditary link to premenstrual depression

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Perimenopausal Depression

Menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of the menses. Perimenopause is defined as the transitional period from normal menstrual periods to no periods at all. At this time menstrual periods gradually lighten and become less frequent. The transition to complete menopause may last anywhere from a few months to a few years.
During the perimenopausal transition you may experience a combination of PMS and menopausal symptoms or no symptoms at all. Some normal symptoms of the perimenopause period are hot flashes, insomnia, vaginal dryness, and mood problems. Symptoms of perimenopausal depression are emotional flatness, “inability to cope,” irritability, social isolation, tearfulness, decreased energy, and failure to enjoy normal activities and relationships.

Times of intense hormonal fluctuation can cause increased vulnerability to depression. Perimenopause may be a period of increased vulnerability to the onset of depression in women with no prior history of depression. Since symptoms are gradual in onset, women will not recognize symptoms as part of a reversible disorder, but rather will interpret them as a permanent change in their life.

For more information:
UNC researchers investigate estrogen replacement therapy to prevent depression and cardiovascular disease

How Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Behavior – Women’s Health Center

When a task as simple as a trip to the supermarket becomes an emotional ordeal, Morgan Sheets knows that her period is just around the corner.

The 29-year-old from Indianapolis says that during some months, she notices her emotions becoming more unstable in the five days or so before she is due to start menstruating.

“I begin feeling like everything in my life is wrong and that I’m leading the wrong life,” says Sheets, a marketing director.

“Little things like making decisions about groceries to buy or getting dressed in the morning become monumental, and I agonize over them.” Sheets says she also becomes much more sensitive and cries more easily.

Sheets is just one of the many women who experience premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, a collection of unpleasant symptoms, such as anxiety and bloating, that typically occur one to two weeks before menstruation and might influence behavior through in the menstrual cycle.

An estimated 85 percent of women experience at least one symptom of PMS per month, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists estimates.

While PMS and its related hormonal changes are often talked about and are even the subject of endless jokes on TV sitcoms, the truth is that the hormones in a woman’s body can influence her moods and actions throughout the month.

“We know hormone levels fluctuate throughout the month,” says Diana Schwarzbein, MD, an endocrinologist and author of Menopause Power. “There are going to be corresponding fluctuations in other hormones that are definitely going to affect emotions, processes of thought, and physical well-being.”

Here’s what your reproductive system is doing during throughout your menstrual cycle and how hormonal changes may make you feel and act.

Feeling Good: The Follicular Phase and Ovulation

The follicular phase of your menstrual cycle begins on the day you start your period and lasts for about 10 to 14 days. During this time, the hormone estradiol begins to rise.

Follicle-stimulating hormone, or FSH, is secreted, stimulating the production of follicles in the ovaries that contain eggs.

This is more likely to be your “happy” time of the month. “It may just be in contrast to the second part of the month,” says Tracey Banks, MD, an ob-gyn with Adriatica Women’s Health in McKinney, Texas. “Those two weeks are usually good compared to how you feel toward the end [of the cycle].”

Sheets agrees, saying she’s much more likely to notice her bad moods than her good ones. “The times of the month when I’m energetic, happy, and inspired, I don’t spend much time dwelling on them,” she says.

However, there may be a biological basis for the “happiness” of the first half of a woman’s cycle. The good feelings may stem from a more sensitive brain.

Women in the follicular phase of their cycle might display greater brain activity at the thought of possibly winning money than women who were in other stages of the menstrual cycle, an experimental study published in PNAS found.

The estradiol rising in the body can help to tamp down the effects of the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol, Dr. Schwarzbein says, and that could also play a part in preserving happy moods.

Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot: The Ovulatory Phase

During a woman’s ovulatory phase, a substance called luteinizing hormone increases.

This hormone prompts the release of an egg from the ovaries into the fallopian tubes for fertilization. Estradiol is present in significant quantities around the time of ovulation, and it can interact with other hormones to increase your libido.

“Estradiol makes insulin more effective,” Dr. Schwarzbein says. “Then the insulin tells the body to release more testosterone, and testosterone is one of the hormones that regulate sex drive.” Some experts surmise that this may be nature’s way of encouraging women to have sex during their most fertile time.

Recent studies have concluded that women are indeed more likely to display sexual behavior just before ovulating and may have a greater tolerance to pain too. You might also be more likely to buy clothes, makeup, and other items to help yourself feel more attractive, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology.

The Other Shoe Drops: The Luteal Phase

After ovulation, the empty follicle that once contained the egg begins to secrete the hormone progesterone to thicken the lining of the uterus and prepare it for the possible implantation of an embryo.

As progesterone levels rise, you may begin to feel moodier. This happens because progesterone helps the body make cortisol, a hormone that tends to be higher in people who are stressed. If cortisol levels are already elevated because of outside factors, like a busy workweek, the progesterone can cause an excess of cortisol in the body. “If I’m already doing something to give myself high cortisol levels, by the time I get to the second half of my cycle, I’m going to be irritable,” Schwarzbein says.

The “yucky” feelings that come in the days before your period might have you looking for creature comforts to feel better. The same Journal of Consumer Psychology study found that women are more likely to eat high-calorie foods during the luteal phase of their cycle. “We do find that women crave certain foods during this time,” Dr. Banks says. “However, everyone is a little different, and not everyone has the same symptoms.”

Although the unpleasant symptoms of the luteal phase can be hard to deal with, Schwarzbein says you can do a great deal to shut them down by developing healthier lifestyle habits. Eating a poor diet, drinking lots of alcohol, and skimping on sleep can all disrupt the body’s hormone levels, making premenstrual symptoms much harder to deal with. “If someone is having PMS, there’s something wrong with her lifestyle habits more so than a hormone problem,” Schwarzbein says. If you’re practicing good habits and still have period-related moodiness, contact your doctor, as you could have a hormone imbalance that needs correcting.

TELL US: Do you notice a change in your moods from week to week? Share your experiences in the comments. (Note: Mobile users won’t be able to comment.)

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How does the day of the cycle affect mood? Count and check

The more you know about yourself and your internal cycles, the easier it is for you to understand what is happening with the body and feel its needs.

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Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

First phase. Renaissance

The 1st day of the cycle is considered the day of the beginning of our menstruation.

What happens to hormones?

The endometrium, which covers our uterus, peels off, and the blood stream flushes it out, cleansing occurs. At the very beginning of this phase, the level of estrogen and progesterone is extremely low, but at the same time, the hypo-

lamus, which regulates thirst, hunger, sleep, libido and endocrine functions, releases follicle-stimulating hormone. Yes, yes, preparations for ovulation are already beginning, hope is already dawning!

Energy

During this period, at first, we still want to close, and we strive to be left alone. But gradually we begin to wake up, become prettier and feel cheerful again.

What do we do?

The first day of the cycle, we are the most vulnerable. Insist that you are not disturbed on this day. If possible, take a day off. Be alone with yourself, feel how your body actually feels, what you are experiencing. Ask your lover to be especially gentle and caring during this period. On the first day, it is better to refrain from exercise and physical activity.

ADVERTISING – CONTINUED BELOW

During this period it is necessary to pay attention to the body. the body calls for your attention. Take a bath with your favorite aromatic oils, nourish yourself, your body needs care. Actually, in many ways, the reasons for our emotional breakdowns on others during this period are that you need to stay alone and take care of yourself, and you are forced to maintain activity that is unusual for this cycle. Your body and psyche require solitude and nourishment! Calm yin yoga, stretching, yoga nidra are best suited for exercises during this period.

second phase of the cycle. Preparation for fertilization, or the Creative phase

What happens to hormones?

An increased synthesis of pituitary and hypothalamic hormones begins, which affect the ovaries. The main one is follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which causes intensive growth and development of several follicles. The ovaries, in turn, produce the sex hormone estrogen; its significance is to stimulate the renewal of the endometrium and prepare the uterus to accept the egg. This stage lasts about two weeks and ends due to the release of hormones into the blood that suppress the activity of FSH. Your uterus is lined with endometrium, you are preparing to accept life. Readiness for fertilization is born in our body! We feel with our whole being that we can give life. Therefore, this is the most creative, I beg your pardon, creative phase!

Psychological aspect: according to our hectic hormonal life during this period, we are oh-oh-very friendly to male energy, we are very feminine, flirtatious and very attractive!

Energy

Physical, sexual energies increase, estrogen levels increase. Closer to ovulation, this hormone is at its maximum level! And here it is, our favorite radiance, and the eyes shine, the skin is tender, velvety, the mood is playful. Even the most difficult things are on the shoulder. We easily achieve success these days both with men and in everyday affairs. Increased sexual desire. There is a need to actively participate in society.

What are we doing?

First of all, pay attention to how you feel. What does your body feel, what does it yearn for? How is your body experiencing this beautiful phase of being ready to create? Pay attention, do you accept it, rejoice, let it into your life? Do you feel how your creative energy has increased? What projects are knocking and require implementation? And if you have caught this rhythm, this wave energy of your own cycle, then ride it! Rejoice, be active, flirt, dress brightly and beautifully, meet men or arrange romantic dates with your lover.

Third phase. Recession, or the Period when we reap the benefits oocytes from the follicle.

The egg enters the lumen of the fallopian tube and begins its movement towards the uterus, while waiting for fertilization. As soon as ovulation occurs, the amount of progesterone increases. With a reduced rate of the hormone in the blood in the second half of the cycle, a woman may experience irritability, which, in turn, can lead to depression.

Progesterone is responsible for women’s health, regulates the ability to conceive and bear a child, shapes the female body, is responsible for metabolism, and even affects such seemingly exclusively psychological characteristics as maternal feelings and peace of mind. Today it is called the hormone of motherhood, it is necessary for carrying a pregnancy. If conception has occurred, then in the prevailing amount it persists until the very birth.

Psychological aspect: the hormone of motherhood makes us reasonable, balanced. A woman turns into a hostess, loves to stay at home, bring comfort, cook a delicious dinner. Men are more tempted to feed them than to flirt with them. If the pregnancy did not take place, then closer to menstruation, the level of hormones decreases. At this time, the body is cleansed, resting, gaining

Energy

As soon as ovulation ends, the decline gradually begins, our energy seems to slow down. We may become more depressed and sad. It is worth paying attention to your condition and accepting it, take care of yourself, reduce stress factors in life. And by the way, experience joy!

Psychological aspect. Here, depending on your hormonal background and psychological harmony, you can feel two diametrically opposite energies: an unreasonable feeling of failure, dissatisfaction, or pride in your success.

During this period, you may want to change. All aspects that have not been working for you for a long time and from which it is time to get rid of begin to manifest themselves especially actively in this phase.

Fourth phase. Distillation

What happens to hormones?

The decline continues. The production of both estrogen and progesterone is reduced. Insulin levels also decrease, we may crave sweets, and in general our appetite increases. Here, especially try to maintain a healthy diet, otherwise unhealthy snacks will unbalance your hormones even more. PMS may begin, manifesting itself in the form of anxiety, fatigue, irritability.

Energy

We are no longer interested in the world around us, we want to withdraw into ourselves and be alone. And here again the fork: you can feel closed, while either completely in your place and calmly peaceful, or lost, frustrated, with a persistent feeling that everything is tired.

What do we do?

Getting ready to let go of all that we no longer need. We pay attention to insights and intuition – its strength begins to increase significantly. Slow down all rhythms. Understanding what exactly we want from the next cycle…

Read more about beauty and hormonal balance in Olga Sharipova’s book “Three Minds of Beauty”

Why do you want to cry before menstruation and often have a bad mood?

Date updated: 04/05/2023

Contents:

• How does menstruation affect mood?
• How to deal with irritability, aggression and depression on critical days?
• When should I see a specialist?

The menstrual cycle affects the mood of a woman, which is associated with a change in the level and ratio of hormones in different phases of the cycle. In most cases, a decrease in the emotional background is observed in the second half of the cycle.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is often manifested by nervousness and irritability against the background of neuropsychic and vegetovascular disorders. The bad mood that was before menstruation can persist during menstruation. In this article, we will look at the causes of a bad mood associated with the cycle, and ways to improve the emotional background.

The first phase of the menstrual cycle begins on the first day of menstruation. Directly during menstruation, a woman may feel worse than usual. This is due to pain in the lower abdomen, fatigue, edema that persists for some time, which developed during PMS.

However, the state of health and mood, as a rule, improves no later than by the end of menstruation. Immediately after the cessation of monthly bleeding in the body of a woman, follicles begin to mature. The female sex hormone estrogen allows you to maintain a good mood, performance at this time is also increased.

Ovulation occurs on the 13-15th day of the cycle, depending on its duration. The follicle bursts so that the egg is released into the fallopian tube for further fertilization. And in place of the follicle, a corpus luteum develops, which produces the hormone progesterone and prepares the uterus for the process of introducing a fertilized egg.

This is how the luteal phase of the cycle begins: the level of the hormone progesterone increases, after reaching its peak, the level of estrogen begins to gradually decrease. If pregnancy does not occur, the level of both hormones decreases. These changes are often accompanied by deterioration of the emotional background and other manifestations. In this case, we are talking about premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Symptoms in mild forms of PMS may appear 2-7 days before menstruation, in severe forms – 3-10 days. The syndrome is characterized by nervousness, general malaise: a woman may start to have a stomach ache, swelling, pain in the mammary glands, headache, increased appetite, insomnia, daytime sleepiness, etc. This explains why you want to cry before your period. Important: the severity of symptoms varies – some women experience a decrease in mood, while others experience symptoms of depression, a sense of hopelessness, despair.

It should be remembered that PMS is a violation of the cycle, which quite often requires correction. The herbal medicine Cyclodinone® can help manage symptoms. It helps to reduce the symptoms of PMS, restore normal sleep and psycho-emotional background. The drug should be taken only 1 time per day, no cancellation is required during menstruation.

Compliance with some recommendations will partly improve your mood. The gynecologist will advise you to reconsider your lifestyle even in cases where medications are prescribed.

Moderate physical activity promotes the production of so-called good mood hormones – endorphins. Choose the type of activity that suits you, it can be cycling, swimming, walking, yoga, water aerobics, dancing, etc. Massage has a beneficial effect.

Nutrition should be balanced to prevent deterioration of well-being and lack of nutrients in the body. Some foods are rich in substances that can improve well-being and mood.

Thus, it is important to include in the diet foods with vitamin E, which is found in almost any vegetable oils, as well as omega-3, -6, -9 fatty acids. They support normal reproductive function, have a positive effect on mood, and contribute to concentration. Omega family acids are found in fatty fish, avocados, and flaxseeds. Magnesium is also necessary for the prevention of psycho-emotional disorders. This macronutrient is abundant in greens.

Vitamin D deficiency may exacerbate symptoms of depression. Its deficiency is especially acute in autumn and winter. At this time, it is important to make up for its deficiency with medications or supplements, after consulting with your doctor. Vitamin D, like calcium, which is also necessary, is abundant in dairy products, butter, and cheese.

Irritability before menstruation may increase due to abdominal pain. And it, in turn, sometimes increases from the use of certain products. Saturated fats increase systemic inflammation and pain.

Therefore, it is important to give preference to low-fat varieties of meat and fish, to refuse fast food, fat and confectionery with fatty cream. Fried food can increase the amount of prostaglandins, so it also increases the pain. It is better to eat dishes that are boiled, baked in the oven or steamed.

Excess salt in the diet increases swelling and negatively affects well-being. And fluctuations in blood glucose levels can be expressed against the background of hormonal changes. Doctors recommend reducing salt intake to 6 grams per day, as well as minimizing easily digestible carbohydrates (including sugar), which will help fight irritability.

Simple carbohydrates deprive a woman of energy and make her more irritable, while complex carbohydrates (for example, cereals and vegetables) can give satiety for a long time and maintain a stable blood sugar level.

Chocolate, coffee, canned food, as well as foods that have a fixing effect on the intestines – crackers, rice, pomegranate juice, etc. can worsen your well-being. Also, do not get carried away with alcohol, because it will only increase discomfort, since it acts as a depressant.

As mentioned above, premenstrual syndrome refers to menstrual disorders. Any symptoms that negatively affect the quality of life of a woman, affect her performance, social activity and relationships with loved ones should be corrected.

The duration of PMS manifestations can be up to 14 days, that is, in severe cases, a woman of reproductive age feels bad every month for up to half a month. Premenstrual syndrome is not normal.

Drug and non-drug correction of manifestations is possible. Treatment of depression before menstruation may involve the use of sedatives and antidepressants, if we talk about severe manifestations, progression of symptoms, shortening the intervals between the onset and end of the syndrome.