The Horror of Mood Swings

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Of lately, I have been going through some terrible mood swings. It is not that I have never gone through this. In fact, prior to having my baby and while suffering from endometriosis (unknowingly) and fibroids, my periods were very terrible and mood swings were a big part of the package so much so that it appears as normal for at least that part of the month. However, after having a baby and having been placed on birth control pills (Lindynette 20), I was at a place of peace. I wasn't really sure what had help because there are so many stories out there. There are some persons who claim that if you were having terrible period pain, it will go away once you have a baby. The solution to period pain...Have a baby! However, I met others who said that it was not true and since there are really no scientific evidence, I assumed that the no mood swings, little to no period pain, no breast tenderness, no mid-cycle pain had more so to do with the birth control pills rather than just having the baby. Also, partly so because in an attempt to avoid a period one month, I doubled up on the pills, but did not bother to finish the other pack since the occasion that I was doubling up for had passed. Instead, I waited for my period to came, following which I resumed the pill. It seemed as if my hormones went haywire.

Since then, apart from the other effects, I have been experiencing these terrible mood swings and I so decided to do a little blogging.

How is related to the Uterus
While there are may causes of mood swings, including stress and anxiety, drugs and alcohol, depression and bipolar disorder, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause and premenopause are also notable causes. The latter are related to hormonal changes including low estrogen levels, which in many ways are link to issues relating to the uterus.

What are the Symptoms
When does it happen is a question that I can never really answer. You may be going quite well, the previous day or even wake up in a good mood and the next thing you know, your mood just change. Sometimes, you can identify a trigger, for example, something was said or something occured, but most of the times, for me, I am not sure when it happened. Worse, it can occur for a few days. One minute, you are laughing and the next, you are quiet and easily upset. Now imagine if you are married and/or have kids...

What are the impacts?
I think the worse impact for me is trying to maintain my 'sanity' in the midst of my marriage. You may find yourself snapping at your kids or spouse for silly things and as such may negatively affect your relations with your family.

You may become very emotional for absolutely no reason. There are times my mood swings are so terrible that everything just gets to me and arouses my anger. Not simply just one element, but everything. So for example, the house that I just finished cleaning was messed up by my daughter in just a few seconds, but it is not only that, but everything else is racing through your thoughts...the need for vacation, the dishes in the sink, the clothes to fold, the food to cook. Your spouse may try to help by doing some cleaning and folding, but it is not helping. Somehow you prefer him to leave the home with your child/children and just give you the house to yourself. Seeing people may upset you, the bark of a dog may upset you, the loud noises of the neighbour may upset and you know something is wrong because all of these things, on a regular day, will never upset you. Yes, it is indeed the horror of mood swings!

How do you manage it?

I have never sought medical help and if anyone has,I hope you will share your experiences by commenting on this blog, but there are certain little mechanisms I live by.

• I talk less during this period. To talk less prevents me from saying things I will later regret.
• I take space, which at times include a bedroom or bathroom escape. Yes, I will go in there and try to relax. Sometimes I shed a tears for the emotions I cannot understand.
• I find that I also feels better after exercise and I believe that may help if the mood swing is trigger by stress

How do you manage your mood swings?