How do periods affect mood?

Periods affect mood primarily because of hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

How Periods Affect Mood

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5)

  • Hormones: Low estrogen and progesterone

  • Emotional Effects:

    • Fatigue and low energy

    • Mild irritability or sadness

    • Relief after premenstrual tension for some

  • Reason: Low hormone levels can affect neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulate mood

2. Follicular Phase (Days 6–13)

  • Hormones: Rising estrogen

  • Emotional Effects:

    • Mood stabilizes

    • Increased energy and alertness

    • Greater confidence and motivation

  • Reason: Estrogen boosts serotonin and dopamine, improving mood

3. Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)

  • Hormones: Peak estrogen and LH surge

  • Emotional Effects:

    • Positive mood, higher sociability

    • Increased confidence and libido

    • Often more outgoing and energetic

  • Reason: Hormones enhance brain chemicals that improve emotional well-being

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15–28)

  • Hormones: High progesterone, moderate estrogen, then drop if no pregnancy occurs

  • Emotional Effects:

    • Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety

    • Increased sensitivity or crying

    • PMS symptoms like fatigue and tension

  • Reason: Progesterone affects neurotransmitters, and its drop before menstruation triggers PMS

5. Key Takeaways

  • Most emotional: Luteal phase (especially the last few days before your period)

  • Most stable and positive mood: Follicular and ovulation phases

  • Symptoms vary: Some women have mild changes, others experience significant PMS

Summary Table

Phase Hormones Mood Effects
Menstrual Low E & P Fatigue, irritability, low energy
Follicular Rising E Stabilized mood, increased motivation
Ovulation Peak E & LH Confident, outgoing, energetic
Luteal High P, moderate E Mood swings, irritability, PMS symptoms

 

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