Women: Master of all

What is it?

Hormonal changes occur throughout a woman’s life—during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum period, and even menopause— which can significantly influence mood, emotions, and behaviour. These shifts are natural, but for some women, the intensity of symptoms can interfere with daily functioning and emotional well-being.

Prevalence and Statistics

• 75–85% of women experience some emotional or physical symptoms before menstruation.

• 3–8% are affected by Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a severe mood disorder tied to menstrual hormones.

• 1 in 7 mothers develops postpartum depression after giving birth.

• Hormonal mood disturbances can begin during pregnancy, with 10–20% of women showing signs of depression or anxiety.

• Hormone-driven mood disorders are underdiagnosed, especially in low-resource or stigmatized settings.

• >50% of women with PCOS experience depression or anxiety, adding to the emotional and health-related challenges they face.

  
  

How to Identify?

Emotional Signs

• Mood swings, irritability, or tearfulness

• Anxiety, panic, or feelings of overwhelm

• Depressed mood, hopelessness, or emotional numbness

• Intense sensitivity to stress or criticism

Physical Signs

• Fatigue or low energy

• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep)

• Appetite changes, headaches, or body aches

• Menstrual irregularities or discomfort

• Unable to care for newborn (severe cases may involve harm to newborn) or perform daily activities

Behavioural Signs

• Withdrawal from social or family life

• Difficulty bonding with baby (postpartum)

• Avoidance of responsibilities or tasks

• Increased crying, agitation, or restlessness

Cognitive Signs

• Negative self-talk or guilt

• Trouble concentrating or remembering

• Fear of harm to self or baby (in severe postpartum cases)

• Racing thoughts or intrusive worries

Common Conditions Associated with Hormonal Changes -

• PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) – Emotional and physical symptoms before menstruation

• PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) – Severe form of PMS with intense mood symptoms

• Perinatal Depression – Depression during pregnancy. Leads to lack of self care and nutrition during pregnancy

• Postpartum Depression/Anxiety – Emotional distress following childbirth. Leads to neglect of newborn

• Polycystic Ovary syndrome - a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgens (male hormones), and polycystic ovaries. This results in male type hair growth patterns leading to shame and also directly responsible for emotional disturbances causing depression, anxiety and sleep disturbances

• Postpartum Psychosis – Rare but serious mental illness after delivery. This requires urgent care as mother may harm the newborn

• Hormonal Mood Sensitivity – Mood instability around ovulation, hormonal contraception or menopause

  
  

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