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Published in on May 14th 2025

How Hormonal Changes Affect Mental Health in Women

Hormones play a significant role in how the body works. For women, hormones can cause many side effects, including depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Mental health impacts everything from the way we sleep to the way we eat, work, socialize, and complete day-to-day tasks. If you're experiencing these symptoms, understanding how hormones impact mental health can help you take the right steps forward.

Hormonal Fluctuations, Mental Health, and Mood Disorders

Estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, and other reproductive hormones can have varying effects on your mental health throughout your cycle. Estrogen levels, for example, drop as you near your period, causing irritability, depression, and anxiety. Progesterone, alternatively, can help improve your mood. The body produces the most progesterone around ovulation, which combats the drop in estrogen levels. However, every woman is different and may experience the highs and lows of certain hormones differently.

Additionally, hormonal conditions like thyroid issues, premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), postpartum depression, perimenopause, and menopause can cause a wide range of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.

When to Seek Help

If you suspect that hormones are affecting your mental health, there are things you can do to take back control. These steps include lifestyle changes, like sleeping better, eating well, and exercising regularly, as well as taking medications that can address both the hormonal imbalance and resulting mental health symptoms. Additionally, therapy can be a helpful tool to navigate any mental health issues that accompany hormonal conditions.

It's important to consult a healthcare provider as soon as you experience concerning symptoms so they can provide a diagnosis and review your treatment options. You can turn to your primary care provider, your OB-GYN, a psychiatrist, or an endocrinologist.

Learn More About Hormonal Evaluations and Treatments

Hormone fluctuations and conditions can significantly affect mental health in women. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, or irritability due to hormonal factors, you’re not alone, and there is a wide range of treatments available to help.

At Pacific Women's OB/GYN Medical Group, we can answer your questions, assess your concerns, and create a customized treatment plan to help you manage hormonal changes. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.