*sigh* Just where do we begin with Period mood swings? Cramps and fatigue are a given when it comes to periods, but Mood Swings are something not many people talk about, or care about.

On the worst days, period mood swings can be one wild rollercoaster of emotions. You might go from enjoying your morning coffee to experiencing uncontrollable crying spells, followed by angry outbursts at anything and everything, all while feeling an impending sense of doom and despair. And then, suddenly, you’re back to a stable emotional state – all in one day.

That’s why, ladies, let’s step up our game in identifying and managing period mood swings. Keep reading!

Understanding Period Mood Swings

Before we get into the deets of managing these monthly emotional rollercoasters, let’s take a quick look at what’s going on behind your periods.

As we all know, everything related to our menstrual cycle happens with the help of hormones. Period mood swings, too, are thought to be connected to the rise and fall of hormones, especially estrogen, throughout the cycle.

Estrogen levels gradually rise right after your period ends and reach their peak two weeks later. You’ll feel all fine and dandy during this period. But then, the estrogen levels drop like a rock and rise again slowly, just for it to drop again just before the next period starts. These hormonal peaks and valleys are why you’re so emotional on periods.

Sometimes, this emotional circus can start a bit earlier – during the premenstrual phase. Often dubbed as PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), this is when you start experiencing mood swings before periods even start, along with other period-related symptoms, such as bloating, tender breasts, loss of appetite or food cravings, etc.

Identifying Period-Related Mood Swings

Now that we know the science behind PMS emotions and period mood swings, how do you know if your emotional acrobatics are really period related? Here’s a pro tip: You’ll know your emotional up and downs are period-related if they start consistently a week or two before your periods start.

If you find yourself crying during cute puppy commercials, yelling at your refrigerator for making weird noises, or laughing hysterically at something mildly amusing, three days before your period is due, that’s PMS talking. Feeling like your emotional volume is cranked up to 11 during your period? Yup, that’s the emotions during your period showing their wild side. The most common period-related mood swing symptoms are:

• Irritability
• Anger
• Oversensitivity
• Nervousness and anxiety

Congrats, you’ve just earned your degree in recognizing PMS emotional symptoms and menstrual mood swings! To make your periods a lot more bearable, choose the right sanitary pad for your flow. Opt for RIO Heavy Flow Sanitary Pads during your heavy days, and you won’t have to constantly check for stains every time you get up from a surface. For your lighter days, consider RIO Cottony Soft or Comfort Weave for a comfortable and worry-free period experience.

Tips for Managing Period Mood Swings

For many women, these simple tips can prove effective and help stabilize mood swings:

Say no to caffeine, alcohol, and sugary foods  

Let’s start with your diet. Caffeine can increase anxiety, nervousness and insomnia. Alcohol, on the other hand, is a depressant. Additionally, sugary foods, such as candies and soda, can cause blood sugar swings which can worsen period mood swings. But hey, you can still have dark chocolates during your periods!

Exercise

Lace up your sneakers and get moving! Physical activity releases endorphins – our brain’s feel-good chemicals – which can counteract some of the hormonal changes that may trigger period mood swings.

Practice mindfulness and relaxation

Try meditation or yoga to help keep your stress levels in check. You might not be able to control hormonal mood swings, but you can control how you react to them.

Sleep well

There’s a reason why people say, “There’s nothing a good night’s sleep can’t fix.” A good night’s rest can make a world of difference in managing emotional turbulence.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration can worsen mood swings, so keep that water bottle close.

Build a support system

Talk to your friends and family. Period mood swings can make you feel like you’re on top of the world one moment and walking on a tightrope the next. A support system can be immensely helpful.

Track your cycle

Knowing when your periods mood swings will kick in can prevent you from being caught in the emotional mess like a deer caught in a headlight. There’s a app for everything these days, and there are many apps for tracking your menstrual cycle too.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most of us can handle the occasional period-induced outburst sessions, it’s important to know when it’s time to call in the professionals. While 75% of women experience PMS, 3 to 8% of women experience PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder). Major depression and extreme irritation are the most common symptoms of PMDD. To be diagnosed with PMDD, a woman must have at least five of the following symptoms:

• Depression
• Despair and suicidal thoughts
• Panic attacks
• Extreme irritation, anger, and frequent outbursts
• Extreme anxiety and feelings of dread
• Crying spells
• Confusion and trouble focusing
• Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
• Disinterest in daily activities and relationships
• Fatigue and low energy
• Foods cravings or binge eating

If you experience these symptoms before or during your periods, please seek help immediately. Your mental health is nothing to joke about, and there are experts who can assist you in navigating these turbulent waters.

Remember, you are not alone in experiencing these emotions, and these period mood swings can very much have significant impacts on your life. Don’t let anyone tell you, “You use your periods as an excuse to act like a b***h” or “It’s all in your head” or anything along those lines. Reach out for help when necessary. See you in another blog.

FAQs:

Are mood swings a normal part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), or could they indicate a more severe condition?

Mood swings are indeed a normal part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). These mood swings before periods are typically manageable and subside in a day or two after periods begin. However, in some cases, severe mood swings with symptoms that can significantly interfere with daily life could indicate a condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). If you believe your mood swings are unusually severe and disruptive, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

How can I differentiate between normal mood swings and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

Even though both PMS and PMDD involve emotional fluctuations, here are some key difference between them:

• Severity: PMDD symptoms are typically more severe and disruptive than regular PMS mood swings.
• Duration: PMDD symptoms often last longer than typical PMS symptoms
• Additional symptoms: PMDD may involve additional symptoms such as depression, panic attacks, crying spells, confusion, and frequent outbursts.

Can hormonal birth control help with managing mood swings, and are there any side effects to consider?

Yes, birth control methods that contain hormones, such as combination birth control pills or hormonal IUDs, can help regulate hormone levels and reduce the severity of PMS symptoms, including mood swings.

How can I communicate with friends and family about my mood swings during menstruation to avoid misunderstandings?

Here are some tips to helping friends and family understand your mood swings during menstruation:

• Find a calm and private movement to talk.
• Explain PMS to them and how it affects you personally.
• Don’t place the blame on them for not understanding you.
• Let them know how they can help you during these times.
• Reassure them that your mood swings and emotions during periods are temporary and doesn’t reflect your overall feelings towards them in any ways.

Do period mood swings subside on their own once I am done menstruating?

Yes, period mood swings typically subside on their own once menstruation begins. As your hormone levels stabilize, the emotional fluctuations that are common in the days leading up to your period tend to diminish. If you find that your mood swings during periods are exceptionally severe or persist beyond your period, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues and explore potential treatment options.

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