Understanding the Difference Between Menopausal Mood Swings and PMS

Menopause is a time of great change for anyone going through it. The changes that happen are usually a result of fluctuating levels of hormones in the body. Hormones are chemicals that help to regulate lots of the body’s functions. Estrogen is one hormone that is affected during menopause; this can result in experiencing symptoms of menopause.

Symptoms of menopause include headaches, vaginal dryness and mood swings. Mood swings are also associated with Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS). Read on to learn the difference between mood swings associated with PMS and mood swings associated with menopause.

Knowing the Difference

Mood swings can happen at any time, but during menopause their regularity and frequency can increase. This can also be true in the buildup and end of your menstrual cycle. There is no great difference in the science behind them - both are caused by hormonal imbalances in the body - but mood swings during menopause can last longer. During menopause there are also a lot of other changes that are happening to your life that may affect mood swings.

How to Control Your Mood Swings

Although caused by hormonal imbalances in the body, having all the pressures of menopause can exacerbate the situation. Having your femininity stripped from you is a very distressing time that would test you even with balanced levels of hormones in your body, let alone without them.

To help control your mood swings you should make sure you communicate fully with those around you. Let them know how you’re feeling and how they can help. Knowing that they understand how you feel may make you feel more comfortable and could even reduce the frequency or intensity of your mood swings.

One of the most frightening aspects of a mood swing can be that sense of ‘losing it’. When the red mist descends and anything anyone does or says can set you off. But remember: you are in control. It’s your body and you have the ability to control your actions. Try to keep calm and relax. Deep breathing techniques can help with this or gently squeezing a stress reliever ball. This should help you maintain an even mood and combat your mood swing. Ultimately, you can overcome your mood swings.