Women experience hormonal changes across their lifespan—before periods, during pregnancy, postpartum, and throughout menopause. These fluctuations don’t just affect the body, they can also impact emotional and mental well-being. At Diana Health, we take your mental health just as seriously as your physical health and want you to feel supported through every stage.
Hormones & Mood: What’s the Connection?
Mental Health & Your Menstrual Cycle
Once menstruation begins (menarche), many people notice recurring symptoms linked to hormonal changes. These may include:
- Physical symptoms: breast tenderness, bloating, fatigue, headaches
- Emotional symptoms: mood swings, irritability, difficulty concentrating, increased anxiety or sadness
Most symptoms show up 1–2 weeks before a period and subside once bleeding starts. This is commonly known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For some, symptoms are more intense, a condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), which can deeply affect daily life and relationships. If you think your symptoms go beyond “normal PMS,” reach out. You don’t have to push through alone.
Hormonal Shifts in Pregnancy & Postpartum
Pregnancy brings major hormonal changes that can affect mental health, especially in women with a history of mood disorders. After childbirth, hormone levels drop abruptly, which can trigger emotional shifts.
Many new moms experience short-lived “baby blues”—feeling weepy or overwhelmed for a few days. But if those feelings last longer or become more intense, it could be postpartum depression or anxiety. This is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. Your mental health matters just as much as your baby’s.
Mood Changes During Menopause
As you approach menopause, estrogen levels become unpredictable. This transition, known as perimenopause, can bring new or worsened mood swings, sleep disturbances, and even depression in some women. While some experience only mild symptoms, others find their quality of life deeply affected.
The good news is you’re not expected to “tough it out.” There are ways to manage these changes and feel like yourself again.
Getting Support
We don’t have all the answers about why these hormonal shifts affect mental health, but we do have effective, evidence-based treatments. At Diana Health, our team includes women’s mental health professionals who specialize in:
- PMS and PMDD
- Pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders
- Perimenopausal and menopausal mental health challenges
- Emotional wellness at every life stage
Support might look like counseling, medication, or personalized lifestyle strategies. And if you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help guide you.
You Don’t Have to Struggle Alone
If you’re feeling off, overwhelmed, or unsure whether what you’re experiencing is “normal,” reach out. You can message your provider through our app or book a telehealth appointment.
If you or someone you love is in crisis or thinking of self-harm, call or text 988 or visit the nearest emergency room.
Want to meet our mental health team? Take a look at our mental health team to read bios and see photos. Knowing who you’ll talk to can make reaching out feel easier.
