From Queen to a Puddle of Tears: The Hormonal Rollercoaster Explained!

Ever feel like you’re on top of the world one moment, and then—bam—you’re suddenly a puddle of tears over something totally random? Welcome to the wonderful world of hormones! Estrogen, the star of the show when it comes to periods, pregnancy, and menopause, also plays a huge role in how we connect emotionally. And when estrogen tags along with its best buddy, oxytocin—the “love hormone”—that’s when you feel all the warm, fuzzy feels.

But why does it sometimes make you feel like a queen, only to drop you into a pit of emotions? Let’s break it down, shall we? We’ll explore how these hormones work together, what happens during your cycle, and why you might feel like you’re on a rollercoaster of highs and lows—especially as you go through menopause!

Estrogen: The Oxytocin Power-Up

Did you know that estrogen isn’t just running the show in your reproductive system? It’s also helping your brain make oxytocin, which is produced in the hypothalamus (a part of the brain that controls emotions and hormones). When estrogen levels are higher—like during pregnancy or even breastfeeding—you might feel a stronger need to bond or nurture. That’s oxytocin at work, making you feel more connected to your loved ones.

Fun Fact: In studies with animals, when estrogen levels spike (especially during times of ovulation), oxytocin production goes through the roof! This is one of the reasons why you might feel extra social and nurturing around that time of the month. Isn’t that wild?

Estrogen Makes Oxytocin Work Even Better

But wait, it gets even better! Estrogen doesn’t just help produce oxytocin—it also makes your body more sensitive to it. So, when estrogen is at its peak, your brain is primed to respond to oxytocin, making you feel more connected, empathetic, and in tune with others. It’s like a little emotional superpower!

Science Talk: Estrogen increases the number of oxytocin receptors in key parts of your brain—like the amygdala and hippocampus—which control emotions and memories. So, when estrogen levels are high, you’re naturally more in tune with the feelings of the people around you, picking up on emotional cues more easily.

Estrogen and Oxytocin Throughout Your Menstrual Cycle

Now, let’s dive into how your cycle affects all of this:

• Follicular Phase (Days 1-14): During the first half of your cycle, estrogen starts to rise. As it climbs, it’s boosting your oxytocin, which explains why you might feel more social, upbeat, and connected to others. It’s like your hormones are giving you a little emotional lift!

• Ovulation (Around Day 14): This is when estrogen hits its peak, giving you all the oxytocin feels! You might notice that you feel extra happy, energized, and ready to connect with others.

• Luteal Phase (Days 15-28): After ovulation, estrogen begins to dip, and so does oxytocin. This is when those mood swings or feelings of withdrawal might start creeping in. It’s completely normal—your hormones are just going through their cycle.

• Menstrual Phase (Days 1-7): When your period hits, both estrogen and oxytocin are at their lowest, which can leave you feeling a bit “meh.” Maybe you feel less social or more inward-focused. That’s okay—your body’s going through its natural rhythm.

Estrogen and Oxytocin in Menopause

When you hit menopause, estrogen levels drop, and so does oxytocin production. This hormonal shift might change how connected you feel to others and could explain why many women focus more on themselves during this time. It’s a natural transition, and some women find it incredibly freeing, while others may struggle with the shift.

But here’s where the good news comes in—there are natural ways to support oxytocin production and keep your emotional connections strong!

Boost Oxytocin Naturally: Supplements, Foods, and Herbs

If you’re going through menopause or just want to boost your oxytocin levels naturally, here are some great options:

1. Magnesium: Magnesium helps the brain regulate mood and promote relaxation, which can boost oxytocin production. Consider magnesium glycinate, which is easily absorbed. Foods rich in magnesium include dark chocolate, spinach, and almonds.

2. Vitamin C: Oxytocin relies on Vitamin C for production. Adding more citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens or taking a Vitamin C supplement can help maintain healthy oxytocin levels.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s are great for your brain and emotional well-being. They help support brain function and may also boost oxytocin sensitivity.

4. Herbal Remedies:

• Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb is known to reduce stress and may boost oxytocin by promoting overall emotional balance.

• Maca Root: Maca has been shown to balance hormones and may help increase oxytocin levels, improving mood and emotional connections.

5. Acupuncture: This ancient practice is a fantastic way to stimulate oxytocin naturally. Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate emotional well-being and enhance bonding behaviors.

6. Massage Therapy: Physical touch is one of the best ways to boost oxytocin, which is why massage can be incredibly effective. Regular massages can promote relaxation and increase oxytocin production, helping you feel more emotionally connected.

7. Exercise: Regular physical activity not only boosts endorphins, but it also helps your body metabolize estrogen, supporting overall hormonal balance. Exercise increases oxytocin levels too, making you feel happier and more connected after a good workout.

Connecting the Dots

The relationship between estrogen and oxytocin is truly amazing! As estrogen levels rise and fall throughout your cycle—and decrease during menopause—it’s no wonder your mood and emotional connections can feel like a rollercoaster. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to just ride the waves. With regular exercise, supplements like magnesium or Vitamin C, and natural therapies like acupuncture or massage, you can naturally boost your oxytocin levels and stay more in tune with yourself and those around you.

Yes, hormonal changes are a part of life, but they don’t have to rule it. By supporting your body and mind, you can navigate these shifts with more balance, calm, and connection—no matter where you are in your journey. So, whether you’re feeling like a queen or a puddle of tears, remember that you’re not alone in this and that there are tools to help you feel your best!

References:

1. Mosconi, L. (2020). The XX Brain: The Groundbreaking Science Empowering Women to Maximize Cognitive Health and Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. New York: Avery.

2. Mosconi, L. (2022). The Menopause Brain: The New Science Empowering Women to Navigate Midlife with Knowledge and Confidence. London: Allen & Unwin.

3. Gabor, C. S., & Leuner, B. (2018). Oxytocin and estrogen: Divergent effects on rodent social behaviors. Hormones and Behavior, 103, 101-107. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.06.009

4. McCarthy, M. M., & Altemus, M. (2017). The role of estrogen in regulating oxytocin and vasopressin receptor density in the brain: Implications for anxiety and stress-related disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology, 42(1), 160-175. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2016.182

5. Greendale, G. A., & Karlamangla, A. S. (2019). Changes in Body Composition and Weight During the Menopause Transition. JCI Insight, 4(5). https://doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.124915

6. Mosconi, L., & Brinton, R. D. (2021). Peri-menopause and the Brain: Cognitive Decline, Alzheimer’s Disease, and the Role of Estrogen. Journal of Neuroinflammation, 18(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12974-021-02145-5Title