Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently and she can no longer get pregnant. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During this transition, hormone levels fluctuate wildly, which can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms.
Crying spells and unusual crying are extremely common during perimenopause and menopause. Studies show that over 60% of women report increased crying during this transition. There are a few key reasons why hormones changes spark more tears:
- Estrogen helps regulate serotonin, the "feel good" hormone that stabilizes our mood. As estrogen drops, serotonin production fluctuates too. This can make some women feel more anxious, depressed, or irritable
- Progesterone calms the brain and central nervous system. Declining progesterone during perimenopause and menopause removes this calming effect for some women, heightening emotional responses
- Some women get symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats that regularly interrupt sleep. Sleep deprivation exacerbates mood instability and emotional sensitivity
So in summary -
yes, crying more often during perimenopause and menopause is very normal. The good news is that while this transition can be challenging, perimenopausal symptoms do not last forever. Natural hormone levels will eventually stabilize post-menopause. There are also effective medical and lifestyle options to get relief.
Tips to Manage Menopausal Mood Issues
Here are some proactive tips to help navigate menopausal mood symptoms:
- Get checked for hormonal imbalances - Speak to your doctor about testing your hormone levels. If low, hormone therapy can help stabilize mood. Consider bioidentical hormones from Optimal Hormone Health Center clinic which are plant-based and customized for your needs.
- Antidepressants - Your doctor may prescribe SSRI antidepressants which can help manage serotonin levels
- Therapy - Speak to a professional therapist to navigate mood challenges
- Regular exercise helps boost serotonin and relieve stress
- Healthy diet - Eat mood-supporting foods like fatty fish, berries, yogurt and leafy greens
- Supplements - Take magnesium, vitamin D, omega-3s and other supplements that support mood
- Restful sleep - Prioritize getting enough sleep and use white noise machines or eyemasks if hot flashes wake you
- Relaxation practices - Try yoga, meditation, deep breathing, journaling and other relaxing activities
The bottom line? What you're experiencing is normal.
Reach out to the caring professionals at Optimal Hormone Health Center or your doctor for personalized help getting through this transition. With the right support, you can find relief and feel more like yourself again soon.
