Perimenopause, which is the transitional period leading up to full menopause, is almost always prepackaged with a roller coaster of emotions. And, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, mood swings are a common symptom of perimenopause. But what causes seemingly uncontrollable fluctuations in a woman’s disposition? None of us would be surprised to learn that the answer is hormones.
The Hormone Connection
Marla Ahlgrimm explains that the two primary hormones that control a woman’s sexual maturity are estrogen and progesterone. These hormones play a critical role in regulating mood and emotions throughout a woman’s lifetime. But, during perimenopause, estrogen levels begin to decline, which can disrupt the balance of hormones within the brain. This can lead to a wide variety of moods with seemingly no explanation for a sudden change.
Estrogen and progesterone also influence the production of serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters linked to mood and well-being. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that any changes in these neurotransmitters can also contribute to mood swings during perimenopause.
