What Causes Extreme Mood Shifts in Women?

Many conditions and lifestyle choices can cause women to experience severe changes in mood.

1. Premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms that occur in women 1 to 2 weeks before a period.

2. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Symptoms of PMDD include extreme shifts in mood, severe depression, extreme irritability, and more.

3. Pregnancy

Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to changes in emotions and mood.

4. Hormone imbalances

Estrogen may play a role in PMS-related shifts in mood, but other hormones can affect mood, too.

5. Menopause

Another major transition in life, menopause, is associated with a period of mood shifts