Are You Curious About How Hormonal Fluctuations Impact Your Mood? Do You Want To Learn More About The Biology Of PMS And How To Take Care Of Yourself During Different Times Of In Your Cycle? Do You Worry That You Or A Loved One Might Be Suffering From A More Severe Form Of PMS Called PMDD? Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in mood changes throughout a woman's lifespan. In this episode, Dr. Rae Littlewood is joined by special guest Dr. Liza Mermelstein to share information about the relationship between mood and estrogen, provide guidance in differentiating between depression, PMS, and PMDD (prementrual dysphoric disorder), and review self-care and treatment options. We also touch on the relationship between estrogen fluctuation during perimenopause and increased risk for depression during this transition. Stay tuned for part 2 to learn more about hormones and mood in relation to trying to conceive and prenatal and postpartum adjustment. Resources: Your Period in 2 Minutes (YouTube Video)Barnes, D. L (ed). (2014). Women’s Reproductive Mental Health Across the Lifespan. New York, NY: Springer.Douma, S. L., Husband, C., O’Donnell, M. E., Barwin, B. N., Woodend, A. K. (2005). Estrogen-related mood disorders: Reproductive life cycle factors. Advances in Nursing Science, 28 (4), 364-375.Maharaj, S. & Trevino, K. (2015). A comprehensive review of treatment options for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Practice, 21 (5), 334-350.