Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are conditions that typically present certain symptoms in women, one of which can be anxiety.
Brain Chemical Shifts
A study revealed in Nature Neuroscience demonstrated the alterations happening in brain chemicals before and during the menstrual cycle. This research aims to shed light on why some women are more susceptible to anxiety during this period.
Continued research in this area is hoped to deepen our understanding of the development of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and how women who suffer from it can be supported and treated.
Escalation of Anxiety During Menstrual Cycle
It is documented that women diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) experience more severe anxiety during their menstruation period compared to the rest of the month.
Interestingly, some women only experience anxiety coinciding with their periods.
In general, women are more susceptible to anxiety than men, and their anxiety symptoms are likely to amplify during their menstrual cycle.
Potential Triggers of Anxiety Before and During Menstruation
1. Alterations in Estrogen and Progesterone Levels
Hormonal shifts occur in the run-up to and during menstruation, making women particularly vulnerable to their emotional and physical side effects, which may include anxiety.
Changes in progesterone and estrogen levels can influence not only women's energy levels but also their digestive system and appetite. For some, these changes can lead to increased anxiety.
However, it's important to note that anxiety can be triggered by various factors, meaning there's no single cause for anxiety during menstruation.
2. Rise in Cortisol Levels
Studies suggest that cortisol, a stress hormone, increases in women before and during menstruation. Elevated cortisol levels can induce stress and anxiety. One resulting behavior is food cravings, often leading to comfort eating, which can cause bloating and weight gain – further heightening anxiety.
3. Apprehension About PMS Symptoms
Sometimes, a woman's anxiety isn't necessarily due to hormonal changes but rather the fear of experiencing PMS symptoms. It's a ‘what came first' scenario – PMS triggering anxiety or the anticipation of PMS symptoms causing stress and anxiety.
For some women who have severe and painful periods, the onset of PMS symptoms can induce panic. The recollection of past painful experiences is enough to provoke stress and anxiety.
There are various effective techniques to alleviate this anxiety, such as meditation and yoga, providing a sense of control. If these methods are insufficient, medical consultation is recommended. Therapies like acupuncture or CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) may be beneficial.
