As progesterone and estrogen levels drop, some women experience symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, which can include irritability, anger or sadness. Some women experience mild PMS, others severe and some not at all (lucky girls!)
The pre-PMS phase is the first time estrogen levels dip. This might leave you feeling lethargic and irritated. Hormones reacting with brain chemistry may produce very vivid dreams (hopefully not nightmares!). If you’re feeling all emotional all of a sudden, blame the spike in progesterone. Higher levels of progesterone increases the stress chemical cortisol in the body. If you’re already stressing about something, cortisol will just make it worse, so take a deep breath and calm down.
Maya says: Don’t worry, just hang in there for a day or two till estrogen levels are up again. Make note of your emotions and physical state in Maya – next time you’ll be better prepared.