Mood swings before menstruation are a common symptom that affects most women to varying degrees. Some refer to these symptoms as "premenstrual syndrome," which can include not only mood changes, but also body aches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. But what actually happens in a woman’s body and brain during this period, and why does she feel mood swings that affect her psychological state?
Hormonal changes
During the menstrual cycle, noticeable hormonal changes occur, especially in the levels of estrogen and progesterone. In the second half of the cycle, after ovulation, the levels of these hormones gradually decrease. This decrease directly affects chemicals in the brain, especially serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that plays an essential role in regulating mood and feeling happy. When serotonin decreases, a woman may feel anxious, depressed, or sad, all of which are common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Emotional and physical stress
Constant stress may make symptoms more severe before menstruation, as it weakens the body's ability to deal with hormonal changes. In addition, the body is more susceptible to fatigue and emotional stress, leading to low energy and increased susceptibility to mood swings.
Lack of vitamins and minerals
A deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, magnesium and calcium, is associated with an increase in psychological symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle. These nutrients are essential for the functioning of the nervous system and controlling mood, and therefore their deficiency can lead to a decline in psychological state and increased anxiety.
Changes in sleep pattern
Studies indicate that women often suffer from sleep disturbances in the period leading up to their menstrual cycle. This may be the result of hormonal changes, or physical symptoms such as pain or bloating. Sleep disturbance makes it difficult to control your mood, as lack of sleep leads to feelings of fatigue and increased sensitivity.
Water retention and bloating
Many women suffer from fluid retention and bloating before the menstrual cycle, a annoying feeling that may lead to increased tension and discomfort. This bloating contributes to increasing women's sensitivity to her external appearance and makes her feel uncomfortable, which is reflected in her mood and increases her mood swings.
Changes in appetite
As the menstrual period approaches, the desire to eat some foods, especially sugars and carbohydrates, increases. This desire is not just a desire to eat, but rather the result of low serotonin levels, which makes the body search for fast ways to raise mood. Although sugars give a temporary feeling of happiness, the high sugar and its decrease quickly increases mood swings, and makes the woman feel tired and irritated.