Maybe. During perimenopause hormones can be unpredictable. And contrary to the old trope “it’s just hormones”, the effects can be a big deal.

 

In the last few years, research has shown that hormones work throughout the body - not just for reproductive bits and pieces.

 

And, research is showing that progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone work directly in the brain and entire nervous system. 

 

And, they work in conjunction with neurotransmitters increasing them and decreasing them. 

 

So, we can conclude that changes in hormones can affect mood. When I say this spiel to my patients, they look at me and one of us usually says, “duh”. And then we have a giggle.

 

And then we get to work making a plan to help out with hormones, neurotransmitters, referrals to therapists to help underlying emotional pain and thought patterns, and expect the mood to be more within comfort for the patient.

 

If you are finding your moods to be up and down, ‘round and ‘round, please do check into your hormones with an ND or MD who is up to date with perimenopause.

 

The transition to no more periods can be empowering and sometimes it can be bumpy. We are here to help!