What are the reasons for significant emotional fluctuations before and after menstruation

Emotional fluctuations before and after menstruation are usually related to changes in hormone levels, psychological stress, nutritional imbalances, and other factors. The main reasons include hormonal fluctuations, psychological factors, nutritional deficiencies, poor sleep quality, and potential diseases.

1. Hormone fluctuation

During the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels change dramatically, which directly affects the secretion of emotion regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin. The decrease in hormone levels during the luteal phase may lead to emotional sensitivity, irritability, or depressive tendencies, which are physiological fluctuations that usually naturally subside after the end of menstruation.

2. Psychological factors

Work pressure or interpersonal tension may amplify premenstrual emotional reactions. Some women have anticipatory anxiety about menstrual discomfort, forming a psychological suggestion cycle. Long term emotional suppression is more likely to cause obvious premenstrual irritability symptoms.

3. Nutritional deficiency

Insufficient magnesium in the body may exacerbate muscle tension and anxiety. Vitamin B6 is involved in serotonin synthesis and can affect emotional regulation when lacking. The fatigue caused by the loss of iron element can indirectly exacerbate emotional fluctuations.

4. Poor sleep quality

Changes in progesterone levels during the early stages may interfere with sleep rhythms. Lack of sleep can reduce the prefrontal cortex's ability to control emotions. Frequent awakenings at night can exacerbate daytime fatigue and irritability symptoms.

5. Potential Disease

Premenstrual dysphoria is a pathological state that requires intervention, characterized by persistent and severe emotional and behavioral symptoms. Abnormal thyroid function may also amplify menstrual mood swings, often accompanied by symptoms such as abnormal weight changes or irregular heart rate.

It is recommended to record the menstrual cycle and emotional changes, and increase the intake of foods rich in magnesium and B vitamins such as whole grains and dark green vegetables appropriately. Regular yoga and other soothing exercises can help balance the function of the autonomic nervous system. If emotional symptoms seriously affect daily life or persist for more than two weeks, one should promptly seek professional evaluation from a gynecology or psychological department to rule out the possibility of organic diseases or emotional disorders. Maintaining a stable daily routine and social support can also effectively alleviate cyclical emotional fluctuations.