The connection between stress and period problems

Ever noticed that when you are under stress - whether it be emotional or physical - your period gets a whole lot worse?

Maybe this presents as:

• Worsening period pain

• Premenstrual moodiness and irritability 

• Late or early periods

• Absent periods

• Skin flare-ups 

• Impaired fertility 

The body’s stress response and menstrual cycle are tightly intertwined. If we are under physical or emotional stress our body may decide it is unsafe to invest energy into reproduction, resulting in changes to our hormones.

This is because stress increases the release of ‘stress signals’ like cortisol, which literally blocks the connection between the brain and the ovaries. Stress also causes our body to gobble up valuable nutrients which are needed for a healthy menstrual cycle. 

Our sneaky little response to stress was evolutionary very beneficial when being chased by tigers, however in modern society where stress is abundant from non-physical threats this response can wreak havoc with our hormones. 

Stress is not just emotional (although this plays a huge role for many of us!). Stress is anything that places pressure on our body. This may include:

• Under-eating 

• Overexercising

• Lack of sleep

• Chronic illness

• Long term chemical exposure - i.e. alcohol, cigarettes, drugs 

Reducing stress is key to balancing your hormones.

At Flow, we can help to dampen down your stress signals in order to nourish your hormones.

This may involve evidenced-based herbal and nutritional medicines aimed at lowering cortisol and waking up the brain-ovarian connection, as well as dietary and lifestyle advice that helps your body feel safe.

If you feel like stress is messing with your hormones and you would like to learn more about how we can support you, we offer a Free Introductory Consultation here.