Why Do I Cry on My Period?

Crying spells before and during your period can feel confusing and overwhelming, but you’re not alone. If you’ve ever asked, “Why do I cry on my period?” or noticed your emotions running wild in the days leading up to menstruation, you might be experiencing common hormonal and emotional symptoms tied to your menstrual cycle.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• Why it’s normal to cry on your period
• The connection between hormones, serotonin, and mood swings
• Treatments and coping strategies
• When to consult a doctor

Let’s dive in.

Is It Normal to Cry During Your Period?

Yes, it’s completely normal. Up to 75% of women experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, including emotional changes such as irritability, anxiety, and crying. For some, this can escalate to severe PMS or even premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which causes intense mood shifts and emotional distress.

Feeling sad or weepy can also occur alongside physical PMS symptoms like bloating, cramps, and fatigue. However, if crying becomes excessive or interferes with daily life, it’s worth exploring why.

Learn more about Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

Why Do I Cry So Much on My Period?

Hormonal Fluctuations

The key reason behind these emotions is hormonal changes. After ovulation, levels of estrogen and progesterone decline. These shifts affect the brain’s serotonin production, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and happiness.

• Low serotonin leads to feelings of sadness, irritability, and even depression during PMS.
• This hormonal drop explains the common link between period and anxiety disorder symptoms.

Sleep Quality Declines

The premenstrual phase often brings insomnia or poor sleep quality due to hormonal disruptions. Lack of sleep can worsen irritability, sadness, and fatigue. If you’ve noticed yourself crying after a night of tossing and turning, serotonin and sleep deprivation might be playing a role.

Changes in Appetite

Do you crave sweets or carbs before your period? This is your body’s way of boosting serotonin temporarily. However, excessive consumption of sugary or processed foods can lead to mood crashes and increased sadness, perpetuating the crying cycle.

PMDD Symptoms

For some, crying spells are part of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. PMDD symptoms include:

• Intense sadness or depression
• Severe anxiety before menstruation
• Uncontrollable crying
• Mood swings

PMDD affects 3-8% of women of reproductive age and often requires professional treatment.

How to Cope with Crying During Your Period

Lifestyle Adjustments

Making small lifestyle changes can help alleviate mood swings and crying spells:

1. Exercise Regularly
   Physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood-boosting chemicals. Even gentle movement like walking or yoga can improve mood and reduce PMS symptoms.

2. Prioritize Sleep
   Improve your sleep hygiene by:

   • Avoiding screens 1 hour before bed
   • Reducing caffeine intake
   • Creating a relaxing bedtime routine

3. Healthy Nutrition
   Instead of reaching for sweets, focus on foods rich in:

   • Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., salmon, walnuts)
   • Whole grains and complex carbs
   • Fruits and vegetables to stabilize blood sugar

4. Stress Management
   Activities like meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.

5. Aromatherapy
   Scents like lavender and chamomile have calming effects that may reduce anxiety and irritability.

Treatments for Severe PMS and PMDD

If crying and emotional symptoms disrupt your life, medical treatments might be necessary:

• Hormonal Birth Control: Birth control pills regulate hormone levels, which can reduce emotional PMS symptoms.
• SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): These antidepressants are often prescribed to treat severe PMS and PMDD by increasing serotonin levels.

Always consult your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.

When to Talk to a Doctor

If crying during your period feels uncontrollable or is accompanied by other symptoms like:

• Persistent feelings of depression
• Overwhelming anxiety
• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness

…it’s time to seek help. You may be dealing with PMDD or another mental health condition exacerbated by your cycle. A doctor or mental health professional can provide personalized care, from therapy to medication.

Takeaway

Crying before or during your period is a common experience caused by hormonal changes, low serotonin, and lifestyle factors. While mild symptoms can be managed through healthy habits, severe emotional distress may indicate PMDD or another condition requiring medical attention.

If you’ve asked, “Why do I cry on my period?”, know that you are not alone. Understanding your symptoms and seeking support can help you take control of your emotional well-being.

For more information on managing menstrual period depression, PMDD symptoms, and anxiety before menstruation, consider exploring resources like the Belle app. Together, we can navigate these challenges with science-backed support.