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PART 1: Why Women Need Their Periods

Women’s overall health is an interconnected ecosystem; where hormone health affects heart health, immune system health, bone health, and brain health.

Have you ever thought to yourself, why do I need to go through this monthly cycle?

Reason #1 for brain health & development

Your body is so intelligent and it goes through these processes for a reason.

Your ovulatory cycle plays a huge role in brain health & development

Your ovulation and menstruation have lifelong effects on your cognitive function.

I’m going to be as informal and simple as I can.

Okay, let’s break it down

1st half of the cycle: ESTROGEN is the dominant hormone.

The dominant follicle within your ovary is growing and preparing for ovulation. The follicle produces increasing amount of estrogen. This NATURAL estrogen is so important for your brain.

ESTROGEN:

- stimulates brain cells/neurons

- generates plasticity in the brain

- improves cognitive function

- increases serotonin receptor levels

- increases dopamine synthesis

- increases neuron excitability

- increases structural plasticity of dendritic spines in the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex

- balanced levels of estrogen generates feelings of an upbeat mood, increased energy levels, and improved verbal and lingual skills

2nd half of the cycle: PROGESTERONE is the dominant hormone.

PROGESTERONE:

- heals and maintains brain cells

- inhibits dopamine-induced glutamate release

- regulates glial cells

- increases GABAergic synapses

- balanced levels of progesterone promotes mood stabilization (mellowness in mood, decreased anxiety, and even more maternal tendencies)

GABA has been shown in early studies to be an effective treatment for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Balanced hormones which means regular ovulation and menstruation (this does NOT include the pill, IUD, ring, patch) throughout the teenage and young adult years helps develop and protect the brain. Maturation under balanced hormones can help retain brain plasticity better for women after menopause. Read & learn more about estrogen and brain health:

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Read & learn more about progesterone and brain health:

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