PMS: More To It Than Mood Swings
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Posted on Mar 26, 2024, 4 p.m.
During the days leading up to their period (as well as during), women often experience disruptions in their sleep patterns and heightened feelings of anger. This study published in The Journal of Sleep Research, set out to shed light on the intricate relationship between women’s menstrual cycles, emotions, and sleep patterns.
“Our research provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between menstrual cycles, emotions, and sleep and the impact of hormonal fluctuations on women's well-being, “said co-author Dr Jo Bower, of the University of East Anglia’s School of Psychology. “By understanding how these factors interact, we can better address the unique needs of women in terms of sleep health and emotional well-being.”
This study utilized ecological momentary assessment methodology (EMA), and daily self-reports from 51 healthy women between the ages of 18 and 35 years old, who had regular periods and were not taking hormonal contraception, about their sleep and emotion who wore wearables to track their sleep across two menstrual months.
The analysis revealed that women experience disruptions in their sleep patterns both the day leading up to and during their period, spending more time awake with a lower sleep efficiency when in bed. During the peri-menstrual phase women experience heightened feelings of anger compared to other phases of their cycle, and sleep disturbances correlate with decreased positive emotions like enthusiasm, calmness, and happiness.
This study was led by Dr. Jessica Meers at the Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety, which is a collaboration between the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Baylor College of Medicine. Additionally, the University of East Anglia and the University of Houston were also partners in the research. Their compelling associations contribute to a growing body of evidence suggesting that menstrual cycles play a significant role in women’s vulnerability to insomnia and mental health issues.
“The findings underscore the importance of considering hormonal fluctuations when addressing sleep disorders and emotional distress in women,” said Bower. “The implications of this research reach further than just the controlled setting, providing potential pathways for interventions and treatments aimed at enhancing sleep quality and emotional resilience in women.”
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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