Can Depression Cause Irregular Periods

Can Antidepressants Cause Irregular Periods

Yes, antidepressants can cause irregular periods. SSRIs cause hormonal and other function alterations. It is common for women to notice differences in their monthly cycle.

If your menstrual problems are caused by a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder , the use of antidepressants might actually help.

Anxiety And Depression During Periods: Causes Detection And Treatment

Depression and anxiety during periods are both common. These symptoms are often part of premenstrual syndrome . PMS is a combination of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that occur during the premenstrual phase of the cycle and go away after the period begins. PMS can cause depression before and during periods, along with food cravings, headache, fatigue, and tender breasts, among other symptoms.

However, severe depression during periods may be caused by premenstrual dysphoric disorder . If you are already experiencing depression, it may be that your depression worsens before and during periods.

Can You Get Pregnant If Your Period Is Irregular

Yes, you can still get pregnant even if your period is irregular. But having unpredictable periods or skipping periods makes it harder to track when you will be ovulating, which is when youre most fertile. Irregular periods also make it difficult to know if you are pregnant because you wont know when you should be getting your period.

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A Note On Birth Control

This article lays out the natural hormonal cycle of the female body without added contraceptives, which could be anything from hormonal birth control pills to IUDs. In some way or another, these forms of contraception may affect the natural cycle of the hormones in your body, and as a result your emotions. Hormonal birth control pills have been linked to increased depression and this may be a result of the progesterone present in the pill.

If you have questions about your specific form of contraception make an appointment with your doctor.

Try tracking emotional changes throughout the month so you can share how your chosen form of contraception may be affecting your feelings and mental health. If you are experiencing severe depression or anxiety with any form of birth control be sure to visit your health care provider as soon as possible.

Pinpointing The Cause Of A Missed Period

Of course, the first thing you should do if your period is late is to take a pregnancy test, which can be accurate as early as the first day of your missed period. If it’s negative and you don’t get your period in a few days or you completely skip it that cycle, or if you’re having chronic problems with menstruation, make an appointment to see your gynecologist.

She’ll likely do a repeat pregnancy test. If it’s negative, she’ll move on to some basic evaluations such as asking you about your medical history, doing a pelvic exam, and taking blood samples to check your hormone levels.

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What Does Research Suggest

A 2012 research was based on comparative study. A total of 1432 women were included in the study. The sample was divided into two groups: the antidepressant group, consisting of 793 women and the control group, with 639 women in it.

The menstruation disorders were checked through gynaecological data. Results showed significantly higher prevalence of menstrual disorders in the antidepressant group than the control group .

The incidence of antidepressant induced menstruation disorder was found to be 14.5%. Hence, the study concluded that menstruation disorders were frequently observed in women taking antidepressants and that it appears to be associated with the use of antidepressants.

Delayed menstruation is also a symptom of depression

Delayed period is itself a symptom of depression. This is because a stress hormone, called cortisol, is primarily responsible for making changes in a womans body when she is exposed to stress or depression.

When cortisol levels rise in the body, it affects hypothalamus. It is an organ in the brain that plays an important part in regulating the reproductive system. Because of this increased amount of cortisol, the function of the hypothalamus is affected.

It results in either delaying ovulation, or stopping your periods altogether. Other hormones could also play a role here which can mess up a womans monthly cycle.

Progesterone: The Pms Culprit

Progesterone and estrogen, the primary female sex hormones, affect the parts of our brains which influence mood and behavior. So, as the progesterone in our body suddenly rises after ovulation, so do depressive feelings. One explanation for this could be that progesterone affects the amygdala . The amygdala is part of our fear-based response system, and since progesterone triggers the amygdala, we become hyper-reactive in the throes of PMS. Heightened amygdala reactivity also leads to increased anxiety, which can make us more depressed. If you experience severe cases of depression and hopelessness during this time, consider speaking to a doctor since you may be experiencing more extreme symptoms of PMS.

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Causes Of Irregular Periods Include: 2

• Eating disorders
• Excessive exercise
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Elevated levels of the hormone prolactin, which is made by the pituitary gland to help the body produce milk
• Late-onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia
• Hormonal birth control
• Hormone-containing intrauterine devices
• Scarring within the uterine cavity
• Medications, such as those to treat epilepsy or mental health problems

Reasons For A Missed Period

• When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Pregnancy is by far the most common cause of a missed period, but there are some other medical and lifestyle factors that can affect your menstrual cycle. Extreme weight loss, hormonal irregularities, and menopause are among the most common causes if youre not pregnant.

You may miss a period for one or two months, or you may experience complete amenorrheathat is, no period for three or more months in a row. This article explores 10 common reasons your period may be delayed.

Verywell / Cindy Chung

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How These Symptoms Mimic Depression

Intricately woven into the current state of your mental health, PMDD symptoms mimic those of major depression. This means that women suffering from PMDD also take on the risks of major depression, like an increased risk of suicide during the two weeks they are affected. For women who have a personal or family history of mood disorders including major depression or postpartum depression theyre at a greater risk for developing PMDD to begin with. Unlike major depression, however, PMDD symptoms lessen or go away at the start of your period.

The reverse effect is also true. Mental health conditions in general can cause period problems or make some period problems worse. Studies show that women with anxiety disorder or substance use disorder are more likely to have shorter menstrual cycles. Irregular cycles are also linked to eating disorders and depression, and women with bipolar disorder are twice as likely to have irregular periods.

Why Do I Feel Depressed When I Have My Period

When my period comes, I feel ill and depressed. I dont want to do anything. My period is heavy and I dont go to school because of the cramps. It rules my life and I cant go out at all. Please help.Vicki*

Its normal to have the blues or feel sick before and during a period. As hormone levels rise and fall during a girls menstrual cycle, it can affect the way she feels, both physically and emotionally. This is known as premenstrual syndrome and it can make a girl feel like hiding in bed with the covers over her head.

Luckily, you can do a few things to ease PMS symptoms. Try eating a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and cutting back on processed foods like chips and crackers. Reduce the amount of salt you eat and drink more water. Say no to caffeine and yes to foods with calcium and whole grains. And get plenty of sleep at night.

Occasionally, PMS symptoms might include feelings of extreme depression and hopelessness. If this is the case, speak with your doctor it may be a sign something else is going on.

Heavy bleeding every so often, especially at the beginning of your period, is probably nothing to worry about. But if you soak through a pad or a tampon in an hour or less, call your health care provider, who can check you out to make sure everythings OK.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.

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How Does My Mental Health Condition Affect My Menstrual Cycle

Throughout your monthly menstrual cycle, levels of certain hormones rise and fall. These hormone levels can affect how you think and feel mentally and physically.

Mental health conditions can cause period problems or make some period problems worse:

• Premenstrual syndrome . Most women have some symptoms of PMS in the week or 2 before their period. PMS can cause bloating, headaches, and moodiness. Women with depression or anxiety disorders may experience worse symptoms of PMS. Also, many women seeking treatment for PMS have depression or anxiety.1 Symptoms of these mental health conditions are similar to symptoms of PMS and may get worse before or during your period. Talk to your doctor or nurse about ways to relieve PMS symptoms.
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder . PMDD is a condition similar to PMS but with more severe symptoms, including severe depression, irritability, and tension. Symptoms of PMDD can be so difficult to manage that your daily life is disrupted. PMDD is more common in women with anxiety or depression.2 Talk to your doctor about ways to help if you experience worse symptoms of depression or anxiety around your period.
• Irregular periods. Studies show that women with anxiety disorder or substance use disorder are more likely to have shorter menstrual cycles .3 Irregular cycles are also linked to eating disorders and depression.4 Women with bipolar disorder are also twice as likely to have irregular periods.5

Ovulation: When We Are Feeling Ourselves

The negative feelings associated with PMS mark the comedown of the week of our monthly sexual prime: ovulation. When we ovulate we are scientifically proven to come across as more attractive. When we come across as more attractive, we most likely feel more attractive and confident, and according to research, the impacts of these self-positive feelings show.

In fact, a 2007 study found female lap dancers actually earned higher tips when they were ovulating, i.e., at their most fertile. Another study found women are more likely to buy revealing clothing when they are ovulating, and may even choose sexier shoes and accessories. Research shows fertile women are also more interested in attending social gatheringsand then like a flip of a switch its all overright after we ovulate our progesterone levels rise and our PMS hits. The whole wanting-to-be-social thing backfires and instead, we just want to be home under some blankets with a pint of ice cream, hygge-ing it up. .

You will most likely experience a uptick in your sex drive, and if youre into men, science says you may experience a heightened taste for manlier men. Im picturing a lumberjack outside his log cabin in the wilderness chopping some wood with strong hands, stronger arms, a red flannel shirt, and the perfect amount of stubble . Given the progression of my thoughts about this lumberjack, I realize I may be ovulating as I write this

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Can Depression Make Your Period Late

• Treatment Options

There are many reasons a woman’s period may be late or her cycle may go off schedule. An obvious one is pregnancy. Others include poor nutrition, excessive exercise, and long-term illness. A less obvious reason for amenorrhea or missing a period, however, is depression.

The link between mental health and reproductive health makes sense when you consider that nature does everything it can to create favorable conditions for reproduction.

If a woman is chronically stressed, anxious, sad, or upset, she’s really not in a physical or emotional position to go through a pregnancy and then take care of and nurture a child. Under these less than ideal conditions, the female reproductive system can shut down.

What Questions Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider

If you have PMDD, you may want to ask your healthcare provider:

• Why did I get PMDD?
• What is the best treatment for me?
• What are the treatment side effects?
• Should I change my birth control?
• What lifestyle changes can I make to manage symptoms?
• Am I at risk for major depression or suicide?
• What should I do if I feel seriously depressed or suicidal?
• Should I look out for signs of complications?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

PMDD is a serious disorder that can negatively affect your life, relationships and career. Women with PMDD may harm themselves or others. If you consistently experience severe depression and anxiety or other PMDD symptoms in the weeks leading up to your period, seek help from your healthcare provider. Medications can get hormone or serotonin levels in check so that you feel more like yourself. PMDD isnt a problem you have to live with. Dont put off getting the medical and mental health care you need.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 11/23/2020.

References

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Your Cycle & Your Mental Health: Key Takeaways

So, can depression affect your period? It depends on a number of factors.

Your period is unique to youand so are any emotional changes you experience in relation to your cycle. If the PMS-related depression or anxiety you experience feels severe or is disrupting your ability to work, go to school, or socialize, dont ignore those feelings. Talk to your healthcare providerand then take simple steps thatll help you feel better, whether thats allowing yourself more time to rest or going for an invigorating walk around the block.

The last year has been tough for many of us, with the pandemic bringing up a whole new set of mental health challenges. Now, as the world slowly opens back up, we hope this post empowers you to prioritize your wellbeing. If you have any questions or concerns about period mood swings, do reach out to your PCP or other physician. Get expert help to figure out if you might be suffering from PMDD or perimenopausal depressionand receive the support you deserve.

This article is informational only and is not offered as medical advice, nor does it substitute for a consultation with your physician. If you have any gynecological/medical concerns or conditions, please consult your physician.

References

The Hormonal Changes In The Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is controlled by the repeated rise and fall of different hormone levels in the body. And stress has a pretty big impact on our hormone levels. So before we dive into how stress affects menstruation, lets first review the hormonal changes that occur in the menstrual cycle.

The key hormonal changes include:

• A rise in the follicular stimulating hormone that tells the ovaries to start maturing eggs for ovulation.

• A spike in luteinizing hormone that tells the ovary to release a mature egg.

• A rise in estrogen that tells the uterus to build its lining in the event of egg fertilization.

• A rise in progesterone that tells the uterus to maintain its lining in the event of egg implantation.

• A natural fall in estrogen and progesterone at the end of the cycle when an egg is not fertilized, to allow for menstruation and the cycle to begin again.

All of these changes are controlled by a connection between the brain and ovaries. This is called the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are areas of the brain that trigger the release of FSH and LH. And these hormones are the way the brain sends messages to the ovaries. The ovaries then make estrogen and progesterone, which also send important feedback back to the brain.

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Can Stress Cause Spotting

Absolutely. That fight-or-flight response we mentioned above isnât limited to just shutting your period down or delaying it for a few days. Stress can also cause spotting, aka when you kind of have a little blood coming out , but not enough for you to qualify as a full period. This often happens between periods, leading you to be like, âwhy is this happening 15 days early?â

Phases Of The Menstrual Cycle

It can help to know a bit about the main phases of the menstrual cycle. Heres a quick rundown:

• Menstrual phase. You get your period during this first stage of the cycle. When your period is over, this stage ends.
• Follicular phase. This phase also begins with the first day of your period, but it lasts until ovulation. During this phase, your body has lower levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. As your period ends, your body begins to rebuild the lining of the uterus in preparation for ovulation, or egg release, and hormone levels begin to rise once more.
• Ovulation. This happens in the middle of the menstrual cycle. Your estrogen levels rise, reaching a high point just before ovulation, and then they drop immediately afterward.
• Luteal phase. This phase begins after ovulation. The second half of your cycle involves a significant spike in progesterone, which helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy. When the released egg goes unfertilized, this peak is quickly followed by a drop, and your period begins.

Before ovulation, dopamine levels increase alongside rising estrogen levels. Incidentally, this fluctuation could help explain why you might notice changes in working memory and concentration during your period.

Both dopamine and estrogen decline again after ovulation, and right before your period starts, theres another drop in estrogen and progesterone.

For some people, the post-ovulation drop in estrogen leads to a corresponding drop in serotonin.

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