The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has increased stress levels, which were already high in many people. 

In women, stress can manifest itself in many ways, including hormonal alterations that can cause menstrual cycles to be irregular. Stress can indeed cause a real “hormonal earthquake” that can psychophysically overwhelm women. 

In such cases, especially after noticing alterations in the cycle, women need to consult a specialist for a gynecological examination to regain their well-being and balance as soon as possible.

Menstrual cycle and stress: Hormones

Hormonal balance and the resulting regularity of the menstrual cycle indicate a woman’s overall health. 

In stressful situations, the body increases the production of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones help to manage stress in the short term. However, when the stressful situation is prolonged over time, the increased levels of these hormones in the bloodstream begin to cause alterations in the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, ovaries, and uterus, which begin to work irregularly.

Even in the absence of factors such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or pathologies affecting the ovaries, the regularity of the menstrual cycle tends to be altered. There may also be changes in a woman’s menstruation, such as flow intensity.

How stress affects the menstrual cycle

Cortisol is the stress hormone produced by the adrenal gland and operates in the hypothalamus – the gland in the brain that regulates many functions, including those of the ovary. Increased cortisol levels in the blood can block ovulation and reduce progesterone production, which controls the rhythm and intensity of menstruation.

In these cases, a woman may notice:

  • Short cycles, even twice a month, without ovulation;
  • Dark premenstrual discharge (“spotting”) due to reduced progesterone production;
  • Reduced flow (oligomenorrhea) with darker-colored blood due to its slow discharge from the uterus, allowing hemoglobin oxidation.

Between the ages of 40 and 45, an altered menstrual cycle could also indicate a depletion of ovarian function, leading to premenopause. 

Anti-stress tips that help cycle regularity

When alterations in menstrual flow are noticed, it is a good idea to consult your gynecologist, who, based on the symptoms, may consider the prescription of the pill, contraceptive patches or rings to put the ovary to rest, or a progestin to reduce the abundance of blood flow. Alterations, however, can be treated.

Restoring a regular menstrual cycle, especially for women not in the premenopausal phase, means regaining well-being and health. In addition to the therapy prescribed by the gynecologist, it is important to reduce the stress you are experiencing and maintain some healthy habits, such as:

  • Sleeping at least 8 hours a night;
  • Controlling body weight, avoiding overweight or excessive thinness;
  • Eating a healthy, varied, and balanced diet rich in iron (from legumes and/or meat), essential fatty acids (fish, nuts, olive oil), magnesium (fresh fruits and vegetables);
  • Exercising (at least half an hour a day at a brisk pace) relieves stress and reduces menstrual pain.