If you’ve ever found yourself crying during your period or in the days leading up to it, you’re not alone. Many women and AFAB individuals experience heightened emotions during this time, and crying is a common symptom. But why does this happen?
Your body gives signals—this ring helps you decode them
Why Do You Cry on Your Period?
The connection between your menstrual cycle and emotional changes is deeply rooted in the complex interplay of hormones in your body. During the menstrual cycle, particularly in the luteal phase (the period between ovulation and the start of menstruation), levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate.
These hormones are not just responsible for regulating your menstrual cycle; they also impact your brain chemistry, particularly neurotransmitters like serotonin, which play a crucial role in mood regulation .
Estrogen, in particular, is known to affect serotonin levels, which can contribute to feelings of happiness and well-being. When estrogen levels drop after ovulation, this can lead to a corresponding drop in serotonin, potentially leading to feelings of sadness, irritability, and even depression . This hormonal drop is why many women experience crying spells or feel more emotionally sensitive in the days leading up to their period.
For those with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), these emotional swings can be even more severe. PMDD is a more intense form of PMS, and it can cause significant mood disturbances, including severe depression, anxiety, and uncontrollable crying.
Research has shown that individuals with PMDD have a heightened sensitivity to the normal hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle, which can make these emotional symptoms much more pronounced .
Community Insights on Crying During Periods
Crying spells during the premenstrual phase or on your period can feel overwhelming and isolating, but many experience similar struggles. Here’s what some community members had to say:
Do you experience crying in your period or in the premenstrual phase?
” I do. My doctor is having my hormones tested because of my crazy mood swings lately. All I’ve wanted to do is cry.”
“Yes, and when it happens, it’s a solid 10—exhausting and deep.”
“I cry at the tiniest things, like a fly landing on me.”
“I typically cry for a solid 10 minutes monthly, and before intervention, it was like clockwork. I would cry like the world was going to end and then get my period within 24 hours.”
“This is one of the worst symptoms for me, so it’s definitely a 10! I don’t tend to have any triggers, though. I just seem to experience sudden overwhelming sadness for no reason and end up crying my eyes out as a result!”
“Yes, for absolutely no reason at all, and sometimes from anger. And sometimes from the outbursts from the anger and my flying off the handle.”
“My crying spells are so intense, usually after a bad night’s sleep in the morning. I get annoyed at myself. I also get so sensitive to conflict around my cycle.”
These experiences highlight the intensity and unpredictability of crying spells related to PMDD. The triggers can range from specific emotional responses to seemingly nothing at all, making it even more frustrating to deal with.
Struggling before your period? Belle can help.
Managing Crying Spells During PMDD
While the emotional rollercoaster of PMDD can feel like it’s beyond your control, there are some strategies that can help manage these intense crying spells:
1. Track Your Symptoms
Keeping a diary of your emotional state, noting when these crying spells occur, can help you identify patterns and predict when you might be most vulnerable. This can also be useful information to share with your healthcare provider.
2. Consider Hormonal Treatments
For some, hormonal birth control or other hormonal treatments can help stabilize the hormonal fluctuations that contribute to PMDD. Discuss with your doctor whether this option is suitable for you.
3. Therapy and Counseling
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling can provide you with tools to manage the emotional aspects of PMDD. Therapy can help you develop coping mechanisms to deal with the intense emotions and crying spells.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can all contribute to a more stable mood. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and sugar, particularly in the luteal phase, may also help reduce the severity of your symptoms.
5. Medication
Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been shown to be effective in treating the mood-related symptoms of PMDD, including crying spells. These can be taken continuously or just during the luteal phase, depending on your doctor’s advice.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your crying spells are severe and impacting your daily life, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help you determine whether you’re dealing with PMDD and recommend appropriate treatments. Hormonal testing, as mentioned by one of our community members, can also provide insights into whether your mood swings are linked to hormonal imbalances.
Conclusion
Crying on your period or during the premenstrual phase is a common yet distressing symptom for many women, especially those with PMDD. Understanding the hormonal triggers behind these emotions and hearing from others who experience the same can be a comforting reminder that you’re not alone.
With the right management strategies and support, you can regain control and find relief from these intense emotional swings.
