Mental Health and the Menstrual cycle: what’s the link?
Many people experience physical and mental discomfort with their menstrual cycle. While there has historically been limited research into female reproductive health, our knowledge of the link between mental wellness and the menstrual cycle is gradually increasing. In this article, we address some of the potential causes of mental health conditions in relation to menstruation.
Changing Hormones and their Impact
The menstrual cycle is a complex process regulated by hormonal changes that prepare the body for potential pregnancy. The same hormones that control this process also play a significant role in our regulating mood and emotions, which means that as they rise and fall throughout the monthly menstrual cycle and its phases, our emotions and sense of mental wellness can also fluctuate.
The primary hormones involved in the menstrual cycle are estrogen and progesterone.
Estrogen levels rise during the follicular phase (the first half of the cycle) and peak just
before ovulation, when they then start to gradually decline until the cycle starts again.
Lowering estrogen levels can cause mood swings, irritability, and depression in some
people.
Progesterone levels increase after ovulation, during the luteal phase (second half of the
cycle). High levels of the hormone can lead to anxiety, fatigue, and mood swings.
Because of the natural rise and fall of these hormones throughout the menstrual cycle, some people can experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) – a common condition that
encompasses symptoms many of us experience before menstruating, such as mood swings, irritability, depression and anxiety. When these symptoms are severe – such as feeling severely hopeless or depressed, or experiencing panic attacks – the condition may be referred to as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This is a severe form of PMS that often requires intervention.
Related Medical Conditions
Some reproductive conditions can affect hormone levels, which can lead to less commonly seen and more severe mental health symptoms. For example, fertility-related conditions, such as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) and premature ovarian failure (POF), can cause a significant decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone. It’s important to note that the nature of the condition itself can take an emotional toll – some people may experience mental health struggles as a result of experiencing early menopause that leads to infertility.
Similarly, common conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, among
others, can cause severe physical pain along with fertility complications, which can result in mental health struggles. While changing hormones are sometimes to blame, oftentimes it’s the distressing symptoms that come with experiencing a medical condition that can result in mental health difficulties.
Menstrual Cycles and Gender Identity
Menstruating people may or may not identify as female, and may experience complicated and distressing feelings throughout the menstrual cycle relating to their gender identity. Transgender and non-binary people may experience dysphoria, struggle to find period products or have difficulty accessing healthcare services, all of which can contribute to poor mental health.
Seeking Help
The menstrual cycle is linked with mental health in a variety of ways. By learning more about menstruation and the symptoms to expect, we become better equipped to identify those that may need intervention.
Anyone who has a menstrual cycle can experience mental health difficulties in relation to it, no matter their gender identity or whether or not they have a medical condition. It’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional, like a psychologist, if your periods (or any other part of your cycle) are affecting your mental wellness.
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