The menstrual cycle is a complex process which a woman undergoes every month, and it involves hormonal fluctuations and physical changes in the body. These changes can sometimes also lead to emotional and psychological effects on mental health.

There is a range of emotional changes experienced by females during menstrual cycle. It can present as milder conditions such as Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) with mood changes, fatigue, irritability, and anxiety to more severe conditions like Pre-Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) that can significantly impact mental health. 

It is essential for women to prioritize their mental health during their menstrual cycle, especially if they experience severe symptoms. Seeking medical advice, practicing self–care, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage these effects.

Let’s explore each of these conditions and discuss how women can manage their mental health during the menstrual cycle.

1. Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS):

It is a common condition that affects women before their period.

It is characterized by a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and food cravings. The severity of these symptoms can vary, and they may disrupt individuals’ daily activities and relationships.

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle are thought to be responsible for PMS, but lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and exercise can also influence symptoms. Treatment options for PMS include lifestyle changes, such as exercise and a healthy diet, and medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal birth control. Seeking medical advice and practicing self-care can help manage these effects.

Symptoms of Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS):

• Psychological symptoms: mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Physical symptoms: bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and food cravings

Cause of Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS):

The exact cause of PMS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. The levels of estrogens and progesterone fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, and it is believed that these changes may affect serotonin levels in the brain, leading to symptoms of PMS. Other factors that may contribute to PMS include lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and exercise.

Treatment for Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS):

• Lifestyle Changes: Simple lifestyle modifications can help alleviate mild symptoms of PMS. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and a balanced diet can help improve mood swings and physical symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness.

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can be taken to relieve physical symptoms such as cramps and headaches. However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medication for PMS symptoms.

• Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapy can be prescribed for women experiencing severe PMS symptoms. Birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings that contain estrogen and progesterone hormones can help regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to PMS.

• Alternative Therapies: Some alternative therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, and massage therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of PMS. However, their effectiveness is still under research and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS that is characterized by emotional and physical symptoms that interfere with daily activities and relationships. PMDD symptoms can include mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, tension, and difficulty concentrating.

Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):

• Emotional and behavioral symptoms: mood swings, feelings of sadness or hopelessness, anxiety or tension, irritability or anger, difficulty with concentration or sleep, and decreased interest in usual activities

• Physical symptoms: bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, joint or muscle pain, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns

Cause of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):

PMDD is also thought to be caused by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, specifically a drop in serotonin levels. This drop in serotonin can lead to mood changes and other emotional symptoms. Genetic factors may also play a role in the development of PMDD.

Treatment for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):

• Medications: Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat PMDD. They help regulate mood and reduce symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and depression.

• Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapy can also be prescribed for PMDD. Birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings can help regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to PMDD.

• Nutritional Supplements: Some nutritional supplements such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 have been found to alleviate the symptoms of PMDD. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any nutritional supplement.

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other types of psychotherapy can help manage the emotional symptoms of PMDD by teaching people coping skills and strategies for emotional regulation.

• Menstrual Cycle-Related Mood Disorders (MRMD)

Menstrual Cycle-Related Mood Disorders (MRMD) encompass a range of mood disorders that occur during the menstrual cycle, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Women with MRMD may experience symptoms throughout their menstrual cycle, including during ovulation and menstruation.

Symptoms of Menstrual Cycle-Related Mood Disorders (MRMD):

• Depression: persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in daily activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating

• Anxiety: excessive worry or fear, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance

• Bipolar disorder: episodes of depression and mania or hypomania, including changes in mood, energy, activity level, and sleep patterns

• Schizophrenia: hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and speech, and reduced emotional expression

Cause of Menstrual Cycle-Related Mood Disorders (MRMD):

MRMD encompasses a range of mood disorders that occur during the menstrual cycle, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. The exact causes of these conditions are not fully understood but are thought to be related to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to changes in mood and other emotional symptoms. Additionally, factors such as stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and poor sleep can also contribute to the development of MRMD.

Treatment for Menstrual Cycle-Related Mood Disorders (MRMD):

• Medications: Medications such as antidepressants and antipsychotics are prescribed to manage mood and other symptoms related to MRMD.

• Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapy such as birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings can help regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to MRMD.

• Psychotherapy: Therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy can help manage symptoms of MRMD. These therapies can teach coping skills and help improve communication and relationships.

• Lifestyle Changes: Simple lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep can help alleviate the symptoms of MRMD.

Dr. Neha is a highly trained and experienced therapist and psychiatrist who specializes in women’s mental health. She understands the complex nature of menstrual cycle-related mood disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and is skilled in providing effective treatment and support to those who are struggling with these conditions.

Through a combination of therapy, medication management, and lifestyle modifications, Dr. Neha can help women manage the emotional and physical symptoms of these conditions and improve their overall quality of life.

If any female experiencing symptoms of PMS, PMDD, or other menstrual cycle-related mood disorders, Dr. Neha is the best therapist and psychiatrist to help you navigate these challenges and find effective solutions. Her expertise and dedication to women’s mental health make her a trusted and valuable resource for anyone seeking support and guidance on this journey.

Dr. Neha is a highly experienced and compassionate therapist, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist based in Delhi. With her extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of mental health, she has been able to help numerous individuals overcome their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

As one of the best psychiatrists in Delhi, Dr. Neha provides a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to discuss their concerns and receive personalized treatment. Whether it is anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health issue, Dr. Neha offers a range of effective treatments and therapies to help her clients achieve optimal mental well-being.

If you are searching for a psychiatrist near you, look no further than Dr. Neha.

With her patient–centric approach and focus on evidence-based treatment, she is widely regarded as one of the top psychiatrists in Delhi.

Also as the best female psychiatrist in Delhi, she understands the unique challenges faced by women and provides specialized care to address their mental health needs.

Don’t let mental health challenges hold you back from living your best life. Contact Dr. Neha, today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving mental well-being.