3 Ways Stress Sabotages Your Period for the Worst
Stress is a response that can come from a variety of different sources from physical, emotional, or perceived trauma. Whether you have stress from a car accident you were in last week, stress from financial challenges, or stress over meeting up with a new friend, any of which stressors can impact your menstrual cycle for the worst.
Why does stress impact menstrual cycles?
Encountering stress causes the adrenal glands to release cortisol which puts the body into fight-or-flight. When the body is on high alert it interferes with estrogen & progesterone balance, and decreases the release of FSH & LH. Basically, stress throws hormones out of balance which runs the menstrual cycle show.
What types of period changes occur with elevated stress?
Increased PMS during the luteal phase (mood swings, acne, fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches)
Lack of ovulation (pause on ability to get pregnant due to perceived lack of safety for a growing baby)
Irregular cycle length or skipped periods
painful and heavy periods
It may be normal to have a few menstrual cycles that are a few days late, or lightly heavier than normal, but on average, a healthy menstrual cycle has consistent lengths and days of bleed. Period problems is just one of many health disruptions caused by stress.
How regulate hormone balance through times of stress
Stress is inevitable. It is known that 55% of Americans feel stress DAILY! Finding ways to support yourself through stressful situations will help build resilience and lessen the release of cortisol. Although stress cannot be completely eliminated, you can support yourself through finding soothing practices, eating nourishing foods, focusing on quality sleep, & reducing inflammatory foods.
Get step by step strategies on how to manage stress as it comes, replenish your body’s nutrients from chronic stress, and action plans to prevent stress from impacting your health. Sign up here to join Stress Proof Your Life: Optimize Your Hormones Masterclass!
