Mood swings during menstruation phases (concrete examples)

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1. Menstrual Cycle Phases

To explain the phenomenon of mood swings during menstruation, we'll break down the menstrual cycle into distinct phases and elaborate on how hormonal fluctuations during these phases typically impact mood. Additionally, we discuss in this article the specific hormones involved and their general effects on mood.

The menstrual cycle can be divided into several phases, with the most notable mood-related changes occurring during the premenstrual, menstrual, and ovulatory phases. The impact of hormones is particularly pronounced during the premenstrual phase, also known as the luteal phase, which precedes menstruation.

Premenstrual Phase (Luteal Phase). This phase follows ovulation and is characterized by increased progesterone production and, to a lesser extent, estrogen. These hormonal changes can lead to mood swings, irritability, and feelings of sadness or anxiety in some women—a constellation of symptoms often referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For a subset of women, these symptoms can be severe, leading to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Menstrual Phase. During menstruation, levels of estrogen and progesterone are low, which can also affect mood. While some women report feeling relief from the emotional turbulence of the luteal phase, others may experience low mood and fatigue, partly due to the physical effects of menstruation.
Ovulatory Phase. Around ovulation, estrogen levels peak, which can improve mood and energy levels for many women. This phase is often associated with increased libido, heightened senses, and general well-being.

2. Hormones Affecting Mood

Estrogen. Estrogen broadly influences mood and cognitive functions, impacting neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin and dopamine. High estrogen levels, as seen during the ovulatory phase, are generally associated with improved mood, increased energy, and enhanced cognitive functions. Conversely, rapid declines in estrogen, as observed during the premenstrual phase, can contribute to mood swings and irritability.
Progesterone. Progesterone, which rises during the luteal phase, is often associated with mood destabilization in susceptible individuals. Its calming effects can sometimes lead to feelings of sadness or affect emotional sensitivity. However, the impact of progesterone on mood is complex and can interact with other hormonal changes, making its effects less predictable.
Testosterone. Although typically considered a male hormone, testosterone also occurs in women and fluctuates across the menstrual cycle. Its levels peak around ovulation, contributing to increased libido and potentially affecting mood, though its mood-related effects are less well-studied than those of estrogen and progesterone.

The Everyoung Health Method provides extensive information that helps understand these dynamics, underscoring the importance of considering individual differences. Hormonal fluctuations can affect mood widely among women, influenced by genetic predispositions, overall health, stress levels, and environmental circumstances. Therefore, personalized approaches are always needed to address hormonal impacts on psychological well-being.

3. PMDD and mood swings

One of the topics we often discuss at Everyoung Health Method training is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) as a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that can significantly affect a woman's emotional state, leading to intense mood swings, irritability, and tension. While PMDD can cause distress and impact interpersonal relationships, it's essential to approach this subject with sensitivity and awareness. The symptoms and behaviors associated with PMDD can be pretty challenging for those experiencing them, and they deserve understanding and support.

That said, in the context of relationships, PMDD can lead to behaviors that, when looked back upon, might be seen as out of character or even, in a lighthearted context, somewhat exaggerated compared to the individual's usual behavior. It's crucial, however, to remember that these behaviors are symptoms of a significant hormonal imbalance and are not reflective of the individual's character or their feelings towards their partner. A few examples are presented next with a nod toward understanding and empathy.

Heightened emotional responses. A woman during this time of month might react more emotionally during conversations. For example, a comment about forgetting to buy milk could escalate into a tearful accusation of absolutely never being listened to, cared for, or understood, followed by an exaggerated display of frustration, such as dramatically emptying the fridge onto the kitchen floor in search of non-existent milk dramatically and aggressively.
Sudden mood changes. Imagine a scenario where, during a romantic dinner, the mood shifts abruptly from affectionate laughter and a display of gratitude to intense irritation about the way the silverware is placed, leading to a passionate monologue about the importance of fork placement etiquette that spirals to questions regarding the principle character flaws of the spouse or a close relative, escalating to explanations about the impossibility to love or respect them.
Over-the-top expressions of affection or displeasure. One moment, there might be an extravagant display of affection, like impulsively buying a giant teddy bear just because it reminded her of a happy moment with a child. The next moment, there could be an equally extravagant expression of displeasure over something minor, such as crafting a ceremonious burial or burning in the backyard of a phone charger that stopped working, lamenting that "everything fails in life and there is no true meaning." Often, the responsibility regarding such negative happenstances gets related to a concrete person (family member, spouse, relative), although the person bears no connection to the event, nor has whatever sort of ways or means to influence any causality related to that whatsoever.
Social withdrawal with a twist. Deciding to cancel all social plans to stay in and talk to house plants about their water preferences, convinced they're the only ones who "truly understand" during that difficult time. Although comical at first glance, that example displays the common mechanics, where actual behavior related to social commitments gets replaced with something that excludes one from the need to communicate with any other living individual.

While these examples are meant to provide a lighthearted perspective on the types of behaviors that might arise, it's essential to approach PMDD with empathy and support. It should never be forgotten that behind every exaggerated scenario is someone dealing with a challenging condition, seeking understanding and help. Professional guidance and treatment are crucial for managing PMDD effectively, allowing individuals to maintain their well-being and relationships.

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