16/06/2025
A very belated post from a few months ago, as Iāve been feeling slightly resistant to sharing online lately. However, I am deeply passionate about supporting women in their health, so here I am, returning to share more insight and education in the hope it brings clarity around common health concerns and the natural physiology of our incredible bodies.
I had a fair few woman reply to this story a few months ago, regarding pre-menstrual irritability/mood changes so I thought I'd share a post about why this might be happening.
1. Estrogen and serotonin
Estrogen plays a key role in modulating serotonin, the neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep and appetite. After ovulation, estrogen begins to drop, which can cause a dip in serotonin. Lower serotonin has been linked to increased irritability, sadness and emotional sensitivity.
2. Progesterone imbalance
Progesterone rises after ovulation and supports the production of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter that helps us feel relaxed and emotionally steady. But chronic stress, nutrient deficiencies or estrogen dominance can lead to low progesterone, which may mean less GABA, leaving us feeling more anxious or on edge.
3. Suppressed emotions
Our premenstrual phase can magnify what's been suppressed. If we've been holding in anger, resentment, or sadness, it may surface in this phase as mood swings or irritability.
4. Stress
Progesterone and cortisol (our stress hormone) share the same precursor, pregnenolone. Under chronic stress, the body prioritises cortisol production over progesterone, contributing to hormonal imbalances and heightened PMS symptoms.
5. Low protein
To make neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, we need adequate protein intake, which provides the amino acids (like tryptophan and glutamine). Without enough protein, our brain chemistry and our mood can be affected.
Curious about how naturopathy can support your cycle? Join my waitlist (link in comments)