Mood Swings and Depression
Estrogen is closely associated with a woman’s emotional wellness. Depression is more common in women at their peak estrogen production than in women in their postmenopausal years. In addition, estrogen is closely associated with sudden mood disruptions, as evidenced by pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder, pre-menstrual syndrome, and post-partum depression.
At the onset of puberty, a teenager’s ovaries will start releasing a steady stream of estrogen, which coordinates the monthly menstrual cycle. At mid-cycle, estrogen levels spike, thus triggering ovulation. The estrogen levels fall sharply after this period. During the remaining days of the month, estrogen fluctuations occur. The normal estrogen levels vary widely from woman to woman; hence, the measured estrogen does not predict a change in mood or emotional well-being.
Women who experience depression signs and symptoms and mood swings are recommended to seek professional consultation to ensure an accurate diagnosis. It is imperative to determine whether low estrogen levels trigger acute or chronic emotional disturbances. A complete workup that measures estrogen in the blood, saliva, and urine will determine the presence of hormone-triggered depression and mood swings. Hormone therapy offers an effective means of balancing estrogen and other hormones.
