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.
The Ups And Downs
While no two women will experience the same exact emotions during perimenopause, Marla Ahlgrimm says that a woman’s mood can run the gamut from elation to being at the natural end of her childbearing years to depression for the same reason. A few moods most women experience at some point during menopause include:
- Irritability. Irritability is common in perimenopause as well as in women who experience PMS each month. The feeling of constantly being on edge, annoyed, and frustrated is exhausting and may lead to other issues, such as arguments with your spouse or partner.
- Anxiety. Marla Ahlgrimm is no stranger to anxiety, and she understands how these feelings of worry and unease can make a woman’s life tumultuous during perimenopause.
- Depression. Unfortunately, depression is also highly common in the years leading up to the end of a woman’s reproductive years. Many women experience sadness, changes in appetite, loss of interest in things they once loved, and sleep disruption.
- Emotional sensitivity. Perimenopause is an emotional time in a woman’s life, even if she is not aware that she has begun “the change.” Being emotionally reactive or overly sensitive is not unusual.
Coping Strategies 
Fortunately, Marla Ahlgrimm says there is hope for women in the throes of perimenopause. First, she says that hormone replacement therapy can help. By replacing the lost hormones, a woman may be able to stave off the most concerning side effects of menopause and its precursor.
Other ways to cope with mood swings include regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Marla Ahlgrimm also recommends stress management and, in some cases, seeking support from a mental health professional.
Many women feel conflicted during menopause. On one hand, she may no longer have to worry about using protection to avoid accidental pregnancies. On the other hand, the permanent end of her menstrual cycle is the true definer of leaving young adulthood and entering into the more “mature” years. But, Marla Ahlgrimm reminds us that we all go through this change and that is a natural part of womanhood and aging.
