Mood Swings and Low Mood
Do you recognize this?
You cry over something small, or over nothing at all, and an hour later you don't understand why yourself. You feel low without a clear reason, more irritable than usual, or flatter than normal, as if things that used to make you happy barely register now. Mood swings are part of the less-discussed, but very recognizable, side of menopause.
Many women recognize:
- Sudden crying spells, or the opposite: feeling emotionless
- Irritability that doesn't match your character
- A low or empty feeling that comes and goes
- Ruminating and a short fuse, especially when tired
Recognizable isn't the same as "something to just accept": you don't have to simply accept this as a fixed part of this stage of life.
Why does this happen?
The risk of a depressive episode triples during perimenopause. This is a direct neurological effect of hormonal fluctuations on serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone each have a direct influence on the neurotransmitter system; their decline destabilizes that system.
Progesterone also has a calming effect through its conversion to allopregnanolone, which acts on the GABA receptors in the brain. When progesterone declines, that brake disappears and restlessness and tension increase.
Women who were previously sensitive to PMS or postpartum mood symptoms appear to have an increased risk of severe mood symptoms during perimenopause, which further underscores the hormonal component. Many women are prescribed antidepressants during this period, while the underlying cause is hormonal. That doesn't mean psychological support has no value, but it does mean it's worth investigating the hormonal background as well.
What can you do yourself?
These adjustments can help keep your mood more stable:
- Exercise regularly, preferably outdoors. Movement has a demonstrably positive effect on mood and stress hormones.
- Watch your blood sugar: regular, protein-rich meals prevent the dips that can worsen irritability.
- Work on your sleep. Sleep deprivation intensifies emotional swings; a fixed rhythm helps with both.
- Talk about it. Explaining to the people around you that this is hormonal, not character, reduces misunderstanding on both sides.
- Build in relaxation moments: breathing exercises or meditation can soften the sharp edges of an irritable day.
How Menovia addresses this
At Menovia, we always look at the full hormonal picture for mood symptoms, not just sex hormones. During the intake, a BIG-registered doctor discusses your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. Through blood testing we map out your hormone levels, and depending on your package, also your thyroid function and blood sugar, both of which have a demonstrable influence on mood.
Based on that, the doctor draws up a personal treatment plan, often with personally dosed bio-identical hormones. Many women find their mood becomes more stable as hormonal balance is restored. Every 12 weeks we evaluate and adjust based on blood values and how you're feeling.
You can get started quickly: no waiting list, and the 10-minute introductory call is free.
This is what the treatment process looks like
Online Screening
Leave your details and schedule an intake. Through a digital questionnaire, we'll check whether you're eligible for a free introductory call (10 min) or intake (45 min). When scheduling, you pay a deposit of €150, which is deducted from the intake costs of your package.
Intake
You will discuss our program with one of our specialized doctors and decide whether to participate.
Blood & DNA research
You will receive the tests at home for a smooth process. Blood tests are done at a location near you.
Personal Treatment Plan
Based on your research results, the doctor will create a personal treatment plan, usually consisting of bioidentical hormone supplementation and, if necessary, supplements.
Start Traject
Het traject duurt minimaal 6 maanden om er zeker van te zijn dat we je goed begeleiden.
Monitoring
During your treatment, you will be in regular contact with our expert team. Blood tests are done every 12 weeks for adjustments.
Evaluation
At the end of your treatment, we will determine your next steps together. This may include a referral back to the doctor or further guidance with Menovia.
Persoonlijke zorg, op maat samengesteld
Frequently asked questions
Mild, fluctuating mood symptoms are very common during menopause and are often linked to fluctuating hormone levels. Persistent low mood that seriously limits your daily functioning does always deserve attention: feel free to discuss this with the doctor during the intake.
Many women find their mood becomes more stable when hormonal balance is supported. Whether this fits your symptoms is assessed by the doctor based on your full picture during the intake.
It's not an either-or question. At Menovia we look at the hormonal side; where needed, we also refer you or advise on additional support.
Since May 2026, part of the consultations are reimbursed through supplementary insurance, depending on your insurer and policy.
Want to know more?
Go to our frequently asked questions
Experiences from other women
Start with personal hormonal guidance
Want to find out whether hormone therapy is right for you and what your body needs during menopause? Schedule an intake consultation with Menovia.
