For many women, the onset of ovulation can be a trying time. In those days when you are most likely to conceive, you may experience a jovial disposition that quickly dissipates once your period begins – suddenly becoming melancholy again.
Yet for some women, this fleeting depression could have an everlasting impact on their mental health; it may even become chronic if not treated properly.
To help elucidate these perplexing issues, let’s take a look at what ovulation is.
1. There Is a Link Between Ovulation Depression and Mental Health
Like other depressive symptoms, ovulation depression can take its toll on one’s psyche.
Research indicates that periods of elevated stress may increase the likelihood of developing anxiety, PTSD and depression – even among those without a history of mental illness. The connection between these conditions and PMS-related signs, such as irritability and mood swings – which can be quite visible during this time – all point toward an association between them and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
In addition to this, researchers have observed that women with an increased risk for depression are more likely to develop psychological symptoms associated with the release of progesterone in their menstrual cycle – such as sadness, despair and malaise.
2. Research Shows That Women with Ovulation Depression Have Higher Rates of General Anxiety and Social Anxiety
In a 2018 study, the prevalence of GAD (generalized anxiety disorder) was 18.2% among women compared to 8.9% among men – a significant disparity indicating that women are more prone than men to this type of psychological ailment. Additionally, approximately 6.7% of women had GAD compared to only 1.3% of men; these figures suggest an alarming tendency for more women than men to experience generalized anxiety and social phobia.
Despite the fact that there is no single definitive cause for GAD, researchers have identified several potential contributing factors: stress, adverse life events or traumatic experiences; loss or change; and even issues related to employment can all be hypothesized as contributory factors. In addition, individuals who possess high levels of neuroticism may be at greater risk – which is indicative of their excessive preoccupation with anxious thoughts and emotions associated with this personality trait.
3. Women Who Experience Ovulation Depression Are More Likely to Be Depressed
This finding, in particular, is quite noteworthy. Women who experience the effects of ovulation depression are more likely to be depressed than those who do not! However – it’s important to note that this effect was only observed among women who had experienced a period of major depression in their past.
In fact, researchers from the University of Pittsburgh noted that women with previous episodes of depression were more than three times as likely as healthy peers to report cycles-related symptoms such as mood swings and fatigue during one’s cycle.
4. Women With Ovulation Depression Are More Likely to Have Chronic or Severe Mental Health Conditions
Women with ovulation depression are at an increased risk of developing more severe mental health conditions. Why? For one thing, stress and anxiety can easily overtake any attempts to regulate them. Without access to quick relief, this condition could escalate into severe clinical depression or other debilitating disorders; it’s not difficult to see how such a predicament could lead towards more serious problems in life.
This connection was examined in the research conducted by Dr. Emily Kramer-Botbin of the University of Louisville School of Medicine, who examined seven previous studies on the subject. Collectively, these analyses indicated that those with non-organic forms of depression had a significantly elevated risk of developing more severe cases – alluding to their high chances of experiencing certain mental health issues as well as facing difficulty managing them over time.
5. The Link Between Ovulation Depression and Physical Health
As we’ve discussed, severe ovulation depression can be a potent source facilitating suicidal ideations and expressions. In fact, recent research has demonstrated that this condition has been linked with an elevated risk of mortality – particularly among those who are pregnant or attempting to become so!
The link between such depression and physical wellness is alarming.
In fact, some studies have revealed that women who suffer from ovulation-related sadness may experience higher instances of common ailments like back pain as well as fatigue.
6. Supporting Women Who Experience Ovulation Depression
If you’re a woman, chances are good that you’ve encountered at least one in your circle. If this is the case, ensure that she has all the resources available to her; from treatment centers and therapy sessions to self-help books.
Don’t hesitate to lend an ear or share advice. If words don’t seem adequate for comfort or solace, perhaps a comforting hug or pat on the back could prove beneficial.
It’s normal for women to experience emotional symptoms during their periods of fertility, yet at some point during their reproductive lives they may experience a more acute form of depression.
If anyone is experiencing signs of depression such as insomnia, fatigue and low motivation levels, it’s wise not to ignore these symptoms.
Conclusion
For women, the prospect of conception is often accompanied by feelings of euphoria. However, if you’re struggling with depression during the luteal phase – or even just before – these heightened emotions can quickly give way to despondency when reality sinks in.
Ovulation depression may not be a common experience, but it is one that deserves attention. If you or someone you know exhibits symptoms such as mild anhedonia, cognitive impairment and anxiety symptoms that worsen around the time of ovulation, consulting a physician could prove beneficial in determining whether treatment options are available for relief.