When you think about anxiety, hormones might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But for many women, low progesterone levels could be part of the problem. This calming hormone plays a crucial role not only in reproductive health but also in mental and emotional wellbeing.
If your anxiety seems to spike around your cycle (or has worsened over time), Christopher Joseph Riegel, MD, at The Riegel Center, in Plano, Texas, can help you get to the root of the issue. With a personalized approach to hormone health, he can guide you toward the right treatment plan so you can start feeling like yourself again.
Progesterone is often thought of as a pregnancy-supporting hormone, but its role extends far beyond that. Produced mainly after ovulation, progesterone helps balance estrogen, regulate your menstrual cycle, and prepare your body for pregnancy. It also has calming, mood-stabilizing effects on your brain. Here’s how progesterone helps:
If your body isn’t producing enough progesterone, you may notice mental health symptoms alongside physical ones.
Wondering if your progesterone could be low? Don’t worry, we’ve narrowed down the most common signs for you to keep in mind:
Many women also experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or worsened anxiety in the days before their period when progesterone levels naturally drop.
If your anxiety feels cyclical or worsens during certain phases of your menstrual cycle, your hormones could be playing a role. You might notice increased anxiety in the week leading up to your period, mood swings, or trouble sleeping during the luteal phase (after ovulation), or changes tied to perimenopause or menopause.
In these cases, Dr. Riegel can order simple blood tests to check your progesterone levels and get a clearer picture of your overall hormonal balance.
If your progesterone is low, balancing your hormones may help ease anxiety and improve your emotional wellbeing. Personal treatment options include:
This treatment supplements your natural hormone levels using options like creams, capsules, or troches.
Managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet can all support healthy hormone function.
Nutrients such as vitamin B6, magnesium, and zinc can play a role in boosting your body’s natural progesterone production.
Supporting liver health and minimizing exposure to environmental estrogens may help rebalance your hormones and reduce symptoms.
If your anxiety seems tied to your cycle or has become worse over time, low progesterone levels could be a hidden contributor. Balancing your hormones may not only improve your physical health but also help you feel calmer and more grounded emotionally.
To get some relief (and a calmer mind), call us at 972-612-9977 or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment with Dr. Riegel today!
