How do hormones affect mood during different phases of the menstrual cycle. Why do some women experience mood swings before and during their period. What causes the mood boost after menstruation begins. How can understanding hormonal fluctuations help manage menstrual-related mood changes.

The Intricate Dance of Hormones and Mood During the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a complex biological process that involves a delicate balance of hormones, each playing a crucial role in regulating not only reproductive functions but also influencing mood and emotional well-being. Understanding the interplay between these hormones and their effects on mood can provide valuable insights into the emotional rollercoaster many women experience throughout their menstrual cycle.

Key Hormones Involved in the Menstrual Cycle

• Estrogen
• Progesterone
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
• Luteinizing hormone (LH)

These hormones fluctuate in a predictable pattern throughout the menstrual cycle, with each phase characterized by distinct hormonal profiles that can significantly impact mood and behavior.

The Follicular Phase: A Time of Rising Spirits

The follicular phase marks the beginning of the menstrual cycle and is often associated with an improvement in mood for many women. But why does this happen?

During the follicular phase, which typically lasts about two weeks, estrogen levels begin to rise steadily. This increase in estrogen has been linked to enhanced mood and energy levels. Estrogen is known to influence the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter often referred to as the “feel-good” chemical in the brain.

The Estrogen-Serotonin Connection

As estrogen levels climb, so does the production of serotonin. This increase in serotonin can lead to feelings of happiness, well-being, and improved social interaction. It’s no wonder that many women report feeling more optimistic and energetic during this phase of their cycle.

While the mood-boosting effects of rising estrogen may not be immediate for everyone, many women notice a significant improvement in their emotional state as their period ends and they progress through the follicular phase.

Ovulation: The Peak of Feminine Energy

Ovulation marks the midpoint of the menstrual cycle and is characterized by a surge in both estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH). This hormonal spike can have a profound effect on mood and behavior.

The Ovulation Mood Boost

Many women report feeling their best during ovulation. The high levels of estrogen and the surge of LH can contribute to:

• Increased confidence
• Enhanced libido
• Improved cognitive function
• Greater social engagement

However, it’s important to note that some women may experience a brief dip in mood immediately following ovulation as estrogen levels temporarily decrease. This mood change is usually short-lived as estrogen levels begin to rise again a few days after ovulation.

The Luteal Phase: Navigating Emotional Turbulence

The luteal phase, which occurs after ovulation and lasts until the start of the next menstrual cycle, is often the most challenging period for many women in terms of mood regulation. This phase is characterized by significant hormonal fluctuations that can lead to emotional instability.

Progesterone’s Role in Mood Changes

During the luteal phase, progesterone levels rise dramatically. While progesterone is essential for preparing the body for a potential pregnancy, it can also have a sedating effect on the brain. This increase in progesterone, coupled with fluctuating estrogen levels, can contribute to:

• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Fatigue

These symptoms are often associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which affects a significant number of women to varying degrees.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Mood Disturbances

Premenstrual syndrome is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to menstruation. While the exact cause of PMS is not fully understood, hormonal fluctuations during the luteal phase are believed to play a significant role.

Common PMS Mood Symptoms

1. Irritability
2. Mood swings
3. Anxiety
4. Depression
5. Difficulty concentrating

It’s important to recognize that not all women experience PMS, and the severity of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some women may experience mild mood changes, while others may face more severe emotional disturbances.

The Relief of Menstruation: Understanding the Mood Lift

Many women report feeling a sense of relief and improved mood once their period begins. But what causes this sudden shift in emotional well-being?

Hormonal Reset and Mood Improvement

The start of menstruation signals a rapid decline in both estrogen and progesterone levels. This hormonal reset can lead to a reduction in PMS symptoms and an overall improvement in mood. Additionally, the physical relief of menstruation beginning can contribute to a more positive emotional state.

As the follicular phase begins anew, the gradual rise in estrogen levels can further enhance mood and energy levels, setting the stage for the more positive emotional experiences associated with this phase of the menstrual cycle.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): When PMS Becomes Severe

While many women experience mild to moderate mood changes throughout their menstrual cycle, some face more severe emotional disturbances. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a more intense form of PMS that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life.

Recognizing PMDD Symptoms

PMDD is characterized by severe mood symptoms that occur in the luteal phase and typically resolve with the onset of menstruation. Common symptoms include:

• Severe depression or anxiety
• Extreme mood swings
• Intense irritability or anger
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of hopelessness or despair

Women experiencing these symptoms should consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment options. PMDD can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, therapy, and in some cases, medication.

Managing Menstrual Cycle-Related Mood Changes

Understanding the relationship between hormones and mood throughout the menstrual cycle can empower women to better manage their emotional well-being. Here are some strategies that may help:

Lifestyle Adjustments for Mood Regulation

1. Regular exercise: Physical activity can help boost mood and reduce stress.
2. Balanced diet: Proper nutrition can support hormonal balance and emotional stability.
3. Stress management: Techniques such as meditation or yoga can help manage mood fluctuations.
4. Adequate sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can improve overall emotional resilience.
5. Tracking symptoms: Keeping a record of mood changes can help identify patterns and prepare for challenging phases.

For women experiencing severe mood disturbances, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide access to additional treatment options, including hormonal therapies or antidepressants when appropriate.

The Individuality of Menstrual Cycle Experiences

It’s crucial to recognize that every woman’s experience with her menstrual cycle is unique. While hormonal fluctuations follow a general pattern, the impact on mood and behavior can vary significantly from person to person.

Embracing Your Unique Cycle

Understanding your own menstrual cycle and its effects on your mood can be empowering. By tracking your symptoms and emotional changes throughout your cycle, you can gain valuable insights into your personal patterns and develop strategies to optimize your well-being during each phase.

Remember that there is no “normal” when it comes to menstrual cycle-related mood changes. What matters most is recognizing your own experiences and seeking support when needed to maintain emotional balance and overall health.

The Role of Neurotransmitters in Menstrual Cycle Mood Changes

While hormones play a crucial role in menstrual cycle-related mood changes, it’s important to understand that they don’t act alone. Neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in the brain, also play a significant part in regulating mood throughout the menstrual cycle.

Key Neurotransmitters Affected by Hormonal Fluctuations

• Serotonin: Often called the “happiness hormone,” serotonin levels are influenced by estrogen.
• Dopamine: This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure and reward and can be affected by hormonal changes.
• GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid): An inhibitory neurotransmitter that can be impacted by progesterone levels.

The interplay between hormones and neurotransmitters creates a complex system that can significantly impact mood and emotional well-being throughout the menstrual cycle. Understanding this relationship can provide valuable insights into managing mood fluctuations more effectively.

The Impact of External Factors on Menstrual Cycle Mood

While hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in menstrual cycle-related mood changes, it’s important to recognize that external factors can also influence emotional well-being during this time. Stress, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors can all interact with hormonal changes to impact mood.

External Influences on Menstrual Cycle Mood

1. Stress: High stress levels can exacerbate hormonal mood swings.
2. Diet: Nutritional deficiencies or imbalances can affect hormone production and mood regulation.
3. Sleep: Poor sleep quality can amplify emotional sensitivity during hormonal fluctuations.
4. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help stabilize mood throughout the menstrual cycle.
5. Social support: Strong relationships and a supportive environment can buffer against negative mood changes.

By addressing these external factors in conjunction with understanding hormonal influences, women can develop a more comprehensive approach to managing their emotional well-being throughout their menstrual cycle.

The Future of Menstrual Cycle Mood Research

As our understanding of the complex relationship between hormones, neurotransmitters, and mood continues to evolve, new avenues for research and treatment are emerging. Future studies may provide even more insights into the intricate mechanisms behind menstrual cycle-related mood changes.

Promising Areas of Research

• Personalized hormone therapy: Tailoring hormonal treatments to individual needs and cycle patterns.
• Neurotransmitter-targeted interventions: Developing therapies that specifically address neurotransmitter imbalances related to menstrual cycle mood changes.
• Chronobiology and the menstrual cycle: Exploring the relationship between circadian rhythms and hormonal fluctuations.
• Gut microbiome and hormone balance: Investigating the role of gut health in hormone regulation and mood stability.

As research in these areas progresses, women may have access to more effective and personalized strategies for managing menstrual cycle-related mood changes, leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.

How Hormones Affect Mood Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle

Why Am I In A Good Mood After My Period Starts?

You’re likely well acquainted with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the set of symptoms that can occur in the days leading up to your period. But have you ever noticed that once your period actually starts, the clouds seem to part, and you suddenly feel a whole lot better?

It’s not just your mind playing tricks on you. There’s actually a scientific reason for why you might feel in a good mood after your period starts and why your mood can seem to change throughout the month.

It all relates to hormones and how they shift once your period starts. Let’s look at hormones throughout your cycle, especially around your period, and how they can affect your mood.

Menstrual Cycle 101 

I’ve covered the complex dance of hormone changes throughout your cycle in more detail in this article, but to make sure we’re all on the same page, let’s just quickly review the basics.

Your menstrual cycle is controlled by two main sex hormones: estrogen and progesterone (you’ll want to see that other article for how your brain is involved). These hormones fluctuate throughout your cycle, with estrogen levels rising in the first half and peaking around ovulation and progesterone levels rising in the second half and peaking just before your period.

The first phase of your cycle is called the follicular phase because it’s when the follicle that contains the egg develops. 

The second phase of your cycle is called the luteal phase. The egg is released, and the follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone and estrogen. 

Throughout your cycle, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate. As they shift, it can impact how you feel physically and emotionally. The balance between these hormones can also influence your mood, as we’ll discuss below.

Period Mood Swings, Both Happy and Sad

Since we are all different, and there’s no single way that our bodies respond to hormonal changes, it’s not surprising that some of us feel good after our period starts while others take a little longer to feel better.

Some people notice an immediate change when they start their period, while others need to wait a few days for the mood-boosting effects of estrogen to start kicking in. And some just feel not-so-great for the entire period.

It’s also worth noting that not everyone experiences premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and not everyone experiences the same symptoms if they do have PMS. And the same is true for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Hormone Levels During Menstrual Cycle Phases

You’re not alone if you’re someone who usually feels pretty good during your period or right after it starts. In fact, there’s a scientific reason for why you might feel this way. When hormone levels increase during the follicular phase of your cycle, it can positively affect your mood. 

On the other hand, changes in estrogen and progesterone can have the opposite effect. 

Let’s take a closer look.

The Follicular Phase: Mood Enhancer

The follicular phase tends to be when you may notice your mood is lighter and you have more energy. It lasts around two weeks until ovulation.

Day one of your follicular phase is the first day of your period. So, even though estrogen levels are low at the start of your period, they don’t stay there for long. Estrogen starts to rise as the follicular phase progresses. Estrogen (plus follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH) is needed to develop the follicle that contains the egg and thickens the uterine lining in preparation for the implantation of a fertilized egg.

As estrogen levels increase, you might notice a positive effect on your mood. It may take a few days, but those symptoms of PMS irritability or low mood start to dissipate once your period starts. By the time your period ends, you’ll (hopefully) feel more social and happy.

One reason could be that estrogen is linked to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood. As estrogen levels increase, so does serotonin production, and this can lead to feelings of happiness and well-being.

Progesterone levels remain relatively stable and low during the follicular phase until they start to climb in the luteal phase following ovulation.

The Ovulatory Phase is Your Menstrual Cycle Midpoint

Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary and usually occurs midway through your cycle. A sudden rise in estrogen levels plus a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation. This is the point in your cycle when the body is prepped to make a baby (even if it’s not in your plans). 

Some people may feel temporarily low mood when estrogen drops back down from its pre-ovulation spike, but since it climbs again a few days after ovulation, it’s usually short-lived.

The Luteal Phase Can Lead to Low Mood

After ovulation, the corpus luteum, the temporary endocrine structure left behind in the ovary following ovulation, begins producing progesterone. This phase is called the luteal phase and lasts for the remainder of your cycle until you get your period. 

Progesterone levels rise for the first half of the luteal phase to prepare for a possible pregnancy. You may feel relaxed and sleep better as progesterone increases because it can stimulate calming neurotransmitters in the brain.

But as you get closer to your period, things can change. If there is no HCG (the pregnancy hormone) available to keep the corpus luteum producing progesterone, it will degrade. This triggers the fall of progesterone and estrogen, which is normal if there has been no implantation of a fertilized egg (pregnancy). Serotonin can also decline with the dip in estrogen. Serotonin has been linked to low moods and symptoms of depression.

While the above can be characterized by mild shifts in mood, motivation, and energy, which is normal, there are situations where mood changes are not considered normal in the luteal phase. 

PMS and PMDD in the Luteal Phase

PMS or Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) occurs towards the end of the luteal phase, right before your period starts. PMDD is much more severe than PMS, although both should be taken seriously by your provider. 

In certain cases, PMS can be an issue of too little progesterone, leaving estrogen to stimulate cell receptors. If you’re struggling with mood and hormone symptoms, I encourage you to grab my free Hormone Balancing Starter Kit to help you get a handle on those symptoms.

When it comes to PMDD, research now tells us that there is a genetic component where women with PMDD are more sensitive to estrogen and progesterone. It’s also believed to be higher among people with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.

Symptoms of PMDD can look like PMS, but the critical difference is the severity and duration of symptoms like:

• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Sadness
• Anxiety
• Anger
• Fatigue
• Trouble concentrating
• Changes in appetite
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness

In most cases, your mood should improve once your period starts and hormone levels stabilize again. If your PMS or PMDD is seriously impacting your everyday life, please reach out to your doctor for help. You don’t need to suffer.

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Anxiety Before Your Period

One reason you may be feeling relief with the onset of your period is due to the anxiety that can arise as part of the luteal phase. Anxiety is often a symptom of too little progesterone. You’ll find 12 ways to reduce anxiety before your period in this article, but here are a couple of things that have helped my patients, in addition to what you’ll find below.

PhosphatidylSerine

PhosphatidylSerine is an amino acid that helps bring cortisol into balance by supporting the body’s natural rhythm, which is why it is best taken at night. We’ve included this amino acid, along with other nutrients that support healthy progesterone and cortisol levels at the right time in our Adrenal Calm formula.

Box Breathing

Inhale to the count of 4. Hold for a count of 4. Exhale for a count of 4. Congratulations, you just did a round of box breathing that can help calm the nervous system and lower anxiety. 

Magnesium

Eating magnesium rich foods (click the link for a list) and considering 300 mg nightly may help improve moods and promote healthy sleep.

Vitex (chaste tree berry)

If you’re low on progesterone, this little herb may be one of your greatest allies. We have a Vitex guide that goes over all the details, but in short, it helps your body do its job in making the mood calming progesterone you need. I generally recommend it as part of our Balance Women’s Hormone Support formula.

@drjolenebrighten If these are the tips you’re looking for, check the LaNK in my bio for dosages of the supplements mentioned + how to give your hormones the love they need to keep your #mood in check! If you’re feeling the problem is you once a month, it might actually be your hormones. Your brain has receptors for your #hormones. So yes, your hormones can influence your #neurotransmitters and therefore, your mood. Check that article I mentioned for #menstrualcycle hormone #moodtips! #moodboost #hormonehealth ♬ Anti-Hero – Taylor Swift

Support Your Mood Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle

Small shifts in mood don’t necessarily mean something’s wrong (because life happens), but they can be tough to deal with. If you’re struggling with your mood during your cycle, there are a few things you can try to help.

• Get enough sleep. Being tired makes everything feel harder. Plus, lack of sleep can increase cortisol and worsen PMS symptoms. If you are having a hard time with sleep, start by ensuring your sleep environment is set up for success. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet, and try to disconnect from screens an hour before bedtime.

If you wake up at 3 am and can’t get back to sleep, chances are your adrenals need a little love. You can try a nourishing adrenal supplement that includes ingredients like Ashwagandha or magnesium (both are also helpful for hormones).

• Eat a blood sugar-balancing diet. Ever seen a child after eating too much sugar and no protein, fat or fiber to accompany? Adults aren’t so different. Foods that don’t keep us full, but instead signal a spike in insulin, can wreak havoc on hormones. When blood sugar is all over the place, so are our moods. Diet is so important for even energy levels and mood. Blood sugar balance is especially crucial for hormone balance and mood. 

Bump up the fiber and protein at each meal and snack to help stabilize blood sugar. Add healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, and nuts, which are all great for hormone balance, and limit simple carbs and sugary foods, which can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. You can grab a free meal plan and set of recipes here to help you get started.

• Reduce stress. Stress can make every symptom feel worse, so finding ways to relax is essential. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try a few stress-relieving techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. In fact, stress can mess your periods, ovulation, and certainly be culprit in mood swings.

Supplements to nourish the adrenals work here too, like Ashwagandha, Passion flower, magnesium, or L-Theanine. You’ll find this blend in our Adrenal Calm formula, which is the perfect bedtime companion.

• Exercise. Movement promotes those feel-good endorphins to mitigate stress and boost your mood. Just find what you love and do it, whether going for a walk outside, taking a yoga class, or dancing around your living room. If you feel like your mood is low, get outside and walk. Walking is an unsung hero in the mood elevating conversation. If you’re feeling anxious, try to move big muscles with some jump squats, lunges, or even just squat at your desk. If you’re in the two hour window before bed, stretch, do a gentle yoga routine, and practice your deep breathing. This will promote quality sleep and help you calm the mind before bed—you know, that time when the “to-do list goblins” try to get us.

• Connect with friends or loved ones. Social support is one of the most important factors in overall well-being. When we feel connected to others, we have an increased sense of belonging, worthiness, and gratitude. So reach out to your people when you’re feeling down—even if it’s just a text or phone call. And if you feel at a loss for a reliable social network, try a new hobby, join a class, go to the gym, find a moms group, or engage in community service programs.

And of course, if you’re struggling with severe mood changes, always reach out to your healthcare provider.

Mood and Menstrual Cycle: Key Takeaways

Your menstrual cycle and period can clearly affect your mood. Hormone balance is key to feeling better before, during, and after your period. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress can help. Exercise and mood-supporting supplements may also be helpful. 

If you struggle with hormone balance and aren’t sure where to start, check out my free Hormone Kit filled with recipes, a meal plan, and the resources you need to better understand and take care of your hormones.

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References

1. Soares CN, Zitek B.. Reproductive hormone sensitivity and risk for depression across the female life cycle: a continuum of vulnerability?. J Psychiatry Neurosci.. 2008. 33(4). 331-343.
2. Fehring RJ, Schneider M, Raviele K.. Variability in the phases of the menstrual cycle.. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing.. 2006. 35(3). 376-384.
3. Barth C, Villringer A, Sacher J.. Sex hormones affect neurotransmitters and shape the adult female brain during hormonal transition periods. . Front Neurosci.. 2015. 9. 37.
4. Joffe H, de Wit A, Coborn J, et al.. Impact of Estradiol Variability and Progesterone on Mood in Perimenopausal Women With Depressive Symptoms. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.. 2020. 105(3). e642-e650.
5. Dubey N, Hoffman JF, Schuebel K, et al.. The ESC/E(Z) complex, an effector of response to ovarian steroids, manifests an intrinsic difference in cells from women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder.. Mol Psychiatry.. 2017. 22(8). 1172-1184.
6. Cappelletti M, Wallen K.. Increasing women’s sexual desire: The comparative effectiveness of estrogens and androgens.. Horm Behav.. 2016. 78. 178-193.
7. Skiba MA, Bell RJ, Islam RM, Handelsman DJ, Desai R, Davis SR. Androgens During the Reproductive Years: What Is Normal for Women?. J Clin Endocrinol Metab.. 2019. 104(11). 5382-5392.

About The Author

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. The decline, or the period when we reap the fruits of

What is happening with the hormones

at a certain moment of the cycle, a sharp increase in the level of luteinizing hormone (LH), which reduces the level of FSH and leads to ovulation, that is, the exit of the ripened 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”

How does the menstrual cycle affect emotions?

What is true about the emotional treadmill derived from the menstrual cycle?

Mood swings in the days leading up to menses are very common among women. Although, first of all, men comment on it 😅.

If you feel gloomy, sad, irritable, or just more sensitive before your period, you are definitely not imagining it. There is some truth to this, and as always, body chemistry and physiology have the answers.

Nine out of ten women say they experience some or all of the symptoms of PMS, with mood swings and irritability being the most common.

How do hormones affect each moment of the menstrual cycle?

What is not so common is to talk about how the dance of hormones really affects every moment of a woman’s menstrual cycle, that is, every week of a woman’s life. These hormonal changes can affect both a woman’s emotions and outlook on life. and knowing them can be a great tool.

Welcome to the emotional ferris wheel!

In this sense, we will analyze each phase of the menstrual cycle and the influence of various hormones on a woman’s mood.

Is there any scientific basis for the influence of the menstrual cycle on humor?

Science has not yet fully elucidated the root causes of these mood swings, but there is no doubt that they are due to the interaction of sex hormones and certain chemicals that function as neurotransmitters in the brain and cause the final behavior in women.

Spirituality reaches places that science does not reach.

Changes in mood and emotion during the female cycle

The female menstrual cycle can be viewed not only as a purely physiological phenomenon, but also as a powerful creative force that also affects a woman on a psychological and spiritual level.

In this post we will combine what science says and what evidence of female rhythms has left as a more spiritual legacy of the process.

Emotions during menstruation

This phase begins on the first day of detection and usually lasts from three days to a week. Menstruation occurs when an egg has not been fertilized, resulting in a sharp drop in estrogen and progesterone levels.

This provokes detachment and disintegration of the endometrium. Studies show that it is quite common to feel mild depression or mood swings during the first days of menstruation until enough sex hormones are produced again at the beginning of the next cycle.

During this phase, especially if it is accompanied by a dull, aching pain, you can increase the despondency of women and promote introspection and remembrance .

A holistic view of emotions in the menstrual phase

This stage is considered the moment of “death” and introspection, when one cycle closes and another begins. It is in this phase that a woman can contact her dark, cold and receptive part, which is often rejected or not recognized.

A more spiritual vision invites women to allow themselves to “die” and be reborn every month, to see this physiological process as an opportunity to let go, leave the old behind, and welcome the new. It is also recommended to perceive this stage not as something negative, but as something unique to women.

It is very appropriate to rest enough at this stage: sleep, dream and meditate… However, unable to do this due to the social demands of our society, women tend to suffer from increased fatigue, irritation and frustration.

Emotions in the follicular phase

Technically, this phase also begins on the first day of bleeding, although during menstruation, hormone production is still very low and does not cause such significant changes at the brain level.

After the first few days of bleeding, the hypothalamus (an area of ​​the brain) stimulates the pituitary gland (also located in the brain) to release a hormone (estrogen) that stimulates the maturation of follicles in the ovaries.

This leads to an increase in estrogen production and the lining of the uterus, the endometrium, begins to thicken.

It is likely that as soon as the first days of the period are over, the mood will begin to sprout and there will be enough energy to start doing something. This is because estrogen generates a signal in the brain that is similar to that generated by other hormones such as leptin (which reports the energy state of the body).

Both leptin and increased estrogen give a signal that the brain picks up and this “convinces” it that the reserves are full, and therefore it can give orders for action and motivation for action.

Without this “enough energy” signal, the woman’s brain could suppress any thought related to movement or energy expenditure.

In a 28-day cycle, this phase usually lasts about two weeks. In addition to the feeling that energy levels increase, women experience some mental clarity, mental sharpness and improved memory .

La pain tolerance During this period, it may also be higher.

Emotionally follicular phase

From a spiritual point of view, this is the “rebirth” phase after death. At this time, the woman’s body begins to prepare for the production of a new egg. This is a dynamic and vibrant stage where women prioritize themselves as women over their reproductive functions.

It is likely that you feel more confident and need to communicate. Concentration and ambition become stronger, so it is at this stage of the cycle that you can focus more on your work or personal projects.

Sexuality at this stage is usually fresh and playful.

Some women get stuck in this stage and try (unnaturally) to live linearly (i.e. permanently) under this energy. The result is an over-communicative, over-working woman, cut off from her most motherly and empathetic side, as well as her dark side, from which she is constantly on the run.

Ovulation mood

This is the shortest phase of the cycle. Ovulation lasts from 16 to 32 hours, and it is at this time that a woman is most fertile. Nature could not fail here.

This phase is rather short, so that, moreover, he “catches” the woman reluctantly or with little energy. We would not have survived so far as a species!

In other words, everything in the body “conspired” so that this phase is the most full-blooded phase for women. edit positive emotions, libido increases and feelings come to the surface. Everything seems more intense and positive.

This state of expansion has been associated with the release of luteinizing hormone needed to trigger ovulation.

Ovulation and emotions according to the most spiritual visions

The most spiritual reading of the menstrual cycle says that this phase is characterized by self-sacrifice and concern for others, issues related to motherhood.

Self-interest wanes and women tend to show a greater need to take responsibility and “feed off” existing projects and ideas.

Women’s sexuality at this stage often manifests itself as an experience of deep love and a desire to share. If you pay attention, you may also notice that at this stage, people are more likely to come to you for help and support.

A woman stuck in this phase of her cycle will find it very difficult to say no and will easily fall into the trap of becoming a “human doormat” in order not to lose the love of her loved ones.

Luteal phase and female emotions

This phase lasts another 14 or 15 days, in full cycles about 28-30 days. And although the estrogen level in this phase is still rising, it will never reach the level of the follicular phase.

There is a strong drop during ovulation, and a couple of days before the period there will be another when the symptoms are most acute.

After a few days in this phase, the woman may begin to feel is slightly slow and distracted, as well as irritable, sad, moody and even angry at the world. This is the phase in which the symptoms of the dreaded Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS.

Most women experience PMS symptoms 10-10 days before their period starts.

It is believed that the explanation for the development of the characteristic symptoms of this syndrome, especially those related to mood, is associated with a decrease in the final levels of serotonin, the hormone of happiness.

Although the mechanism causing this is not clear, estrogens are considered serotonin agonists and if their levels are not optimal, they can cause these symptoms.

In this sense, there are some things that we could do to increase the level of serotonin in the body, such as having a healthy intestine and eating well, getting enough sleep and movement.

At this stage, the egg has already been released and has not been fertilized. Then women begin to need to delve into the innermost sides of their being.

Spiritual insight into the luteal phase

This is a stage of great creativity where you can use the energy a woman builds up each month to make art, explore other creative expressions, or if so, create new life in her womb.

His ability to concentrate and his tolerance for worldly things tend to decrease, but his intuition and ability to daydream increase.

Spiritually it is said that in this phase there is a woman’s unconscious resistance to the fact that she has not been fertilized, which manifests itself in such changes as swelling, pain, irritability, suppressed emotionality, etc. More bleeding is coming, loss, missed opportunity …

And once you’re here… Start over!

References:

• Ericsson, O.