More than only physical discomfort is frequently experienced during menstrual periods. Emotional symptoms like melancholy, impatience, and worry might also take center stage, even if headaches, cramps, and exhaustion are typical. Some people experience similar mood changes before, during, or even after their period finishes, and they might mimic sadness. But have we ever thought about why there are mood swings in the first place and how we can deal with them effectively?The answer to why is because the female body changes every week due to the menstrual cycle, which has four phases. These four phases disrupt hormones, which can affect the mood. Turns out that mood swings are not just limited to menstruation or PMS, it changes throughout the menstrual cycle. A menstrual cycle consists of four different phases follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase, and menses.Follicular PhaseThe follicular phase starts when you begin your menstrual cycle and lasts for about 14 to 21 days, this overlaps with your menses, which is when you are on your period. This means body secretes follicle-stimulating hormone, it does not have a say in your mood, and only helps eggs to grow.MenstruationWhile menses means that uterine blood and tissues comes out through vagina. Right before your period, you may feel blues or sick, an indication that your period is approaching. While on period the feelings of anxiety remains.OvulationOvulation is when the egg is matured and is released. This is when your oestrogen levels are at peak and it improves your mood, energy and also increases sex drives.LutealThe luteal phase is when the follicle left behind by the departing egg secretes progesterone, this increases cravings, lowers anxiety and improves sleep. However, when the egg is left unfertilized, the progesterone levels fall and leads to PMS.The Connection Between Hormones and MoodAccording to experts, hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle have a significant influence on mood swings, as oestrogen and progesterone levels vary, impacting serotonin and dopamine—two critical brain chemicals involved in mood modulation.An Overview of the Menstrual Cycle PhaseMenstrual Phase: Bleeding starts, hormone levels are at their lowest, and symptoms might get worse.Follicular Phase: Hormone levels steadily increase as the body gets ready to ovulate, sometimes elevating mood. Oestrogen levels increase throughout the ovulation phase and subsequently rapidly decrease.Luteal Phase: Progesterone increases and then swiftly drops if pregnancy is not obtained, causing mood swings. Many people may develop emotional instability and depressive symptoms as a result of this hormonal roller coaster.Does It Go Beyond PMS? Investigating the Root CausesEven while irritation and bloating are typical PMS symptoms, extreme emotional anguish may indicate more serious problems:PMDD, or Premenstrual Dysphoria: A more severe kind of PMS characterised by mood swings, anxiety, and sadness. Symptoms commonly interfere with daily activities, demanding medical treatment.PME (premenstrual exacerbation)Anxiety, melancholy, and bipolar disorder are some of the mental health conditions whose symptoms may be aggravated by hormone variations.These illnesses can occasionally be misdiagnosed, thus symptom tracking is critical for effective therapy.Getting Relief: Effective Treatment OptionsIf period-related sadness is interfering with your life, there is treatment available.Counselling and Therapy:Cognitive-behavioral therapy teaches coping techniques for dealing with stress and mood changes.Additionally, treatment may disclose the underlying reasons of depression.Supplements and Medication:SSRIs, or antidepressants, have been shown to reduce PMDD symptoms.Hormonal Therapy: Birth control tablets can help keep hormone levels constant.Natural cures Supplements like calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and others may be helpful.Lifestyle Modifications:Exercising makes you cheerful and less stressed.Relaxation techniques including journaling, meditation, and breathing techniques might help you feel less stressed.Social support can help, and you may feel less alone if you talk to your loved ones.You Know Your Body Best:You may be able to see patterns and direct your encounters with medical providers if you record your symptoms throughout your cycle. A more precise diagnosis can be made if you write down your experiences and bring it to appointments.