Mood Swings and Hormonal Changes
The female body undergoes a lot of changes during perimenopause and menopause. Hormone levels fluctuate and estrogen begins to drop. According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), approximately 23 percent of women experience moodiness before, during, and after menopause.
How Does Menopause Lead to Mood Swings
During perimenopause, estrogen levels drop, causing a wide range of changes in the body. Many changes directly correlate to menopausal mood swings. For example, a change in estrogen affects the way the body manages serotonin and norepinephrine – two substances linked to depression. Low levels of estrogen have been linked to:
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Forgetfulness
- Anxiety
- Brain fog
Sometimes, other symptoms of menopause can cause moodiness. Hot flashes interrupt the ability to sleep, causing foggy thinking, irritability, and other traits associated with menopausal mood swings.
Preventing Mood Swings
If your mood changes affect other aspects of your life, there are things you can do that may regulate the shift in your mood.
- Create a routine. Keep a strict schedule, including eat and sleeping
- Exercise. Exercising has many benefits on all aspects of your health..
- Sleep. A good night’s sleep is important and deprivation can affect your mood.
- Diet. A balanced diet can improve your mood and keep you healthy.
- Avoid Stress. Manage and maintain stress levels by avoiding stressors.
- Meditate. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.
- Talk therapy. Find someone to talk to, like a friend, family member, or counselor.
When To Get Help
If your mood swings are severe, cause anxiety, and make it difficult to function in normal daily life, it is time to see a doctor. Prepare for your appointment by keeping a diary of your mood swings and possible triggers. Include information about all aspects of your day:
- Activities
- Meals
- Medications or vitamins
- Stressful situations
Be honest and open with your physician about any mood-altering substances you use occasionally or regularly, including alcohol.
After a physical and blood work is done to determine hormone levels, your doctor will determine if any additional treatments should be considered.
The PearlPak by CleopatraRX not only helps reduce brain fog caused by menopause, but can help regulate mood swings by balancing the levels of estrogen in your body.