Women's hormones may fluctuate drastically throughout the reproductive years. Natural occurrences, such as pregnancy, childbirth, menstruation and menopause, can cause progesterone levels to increase and decrease, increasing your risk of certain symptoms, including depression and moodiness. Progesterone is a hormone that can play a major role in your overall mood and sense of well-being.
Depression
Depression due to hormonal changes can range in intensity from mild to severe. You may feel sad, anxious or empty inside. Unlike occasional moodiness, feelings of depression interfere with your normal daily routine. Many women experience feelings of depression that correlate with monthly menstrual cycles or during and after pregnancy, as well as during the menopausal phase. Progesterone levels tend to increase just prior to the onset of menstruation and during pregnancy. Levels of progesterone decrease as you approach menopause.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the placenta produces progesterone, keeping the levels of this hormone high. The increased amount of progesterone serves to promote the growth of glands that produce milk. Combined with higher levels of estrogen, progesterone also helps suppress ovulation during the months of pregnancy. The high progesterone levels may cause mood swings during pregnancy and during the premenstrual phase. After birth, your progesterone levels drop drastically, possibly contributing to a condition known as postpartum depression. Other potential factors in the development of postpartum depression include the drop in other hormones, as well as changes in metabolism, blood volume and blood pressure.
Menopause
Menopause occurs when your ovaries stop producing eggs and your estrogen and progesterone levels drop. This phase may last for five or more years, although the main symptoms usually subside within one to two years after your last period. As your ovaries gradually make less progesterone, you may experience mood swings, anxiety, depression and irritability. Other symptoms due to hormonal changes include vaginal dryness, night sweats, hot flashes, forgetfulness and a decreased interest in sex.
Considerations
Contact your doctor if your feelings of depression continue or if they interfere with your daily responsibilities and enjoyment of life. Although hormonal fluctuations may increase the likelihood of depression, this condition can also stem from other medical causes. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe hormone medications or hormone replacement therapy.
