Hormones and Peri/Menopause

Back to a science lesson, and this one I think you’ll love because understanding your hormones and how they interact with our neurotransmitters allows you to understand some of your symptoms.

Science now is only just understanding that Hormones have an incredibly complicated way of interacting with our Neurotransmitters. Don’t know what Neurotransmitters are?

Neurons or nerve cells are essential components within our nervous system. They come in various shapes and sizes and play a crucial roll in transmitting information throughout our entire body. These cells have little gaps in between them called synapses. When a nerve receives an impulse it then triggers a release of chemicals called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters travels across the synapses carrying messages to the receiving end of another cell, which could be another neuron in the brain or a muscle cell.

Just like hormones, neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that are utilized by our nervouse system to carry enhance and balance signals between neurons and other cells in the body. They form a complex chain of communication that controls vital physical functions necessary for life. These inlcude.

  • Breathing

  • Heart Rate

  • Appetite

  • Sleep

  • Psychological functions like thought,modd and emotions.

So the delicate interplay between neurotransmitters and hormones contribute to the harmony and regulation of our body’s overall functioning during the menopause transition and beyond.

This holds true for individuals of diverse gender identities including cisgender , transgender and no binary individuals as the the nervous system ands hormonal system operate in all bodies regardless of gender identity.

Hormones and Neurotransmitters act just like a lock and key in regulating our brain chemistry. So when our hormones fluctuate in Peri/menopause, so does the activity and how efficiently it works. if the hormone levels are higher or lower than the normal. Then the messages our brain gets can sometimes become a little muddled. Ongoing chemicals and cells can cause our body to act in ways thats its not always appropriate for our heads or for the environment that we maybe in. Does this strike a chord with you ? it will do if you have already been going through or have experienced mood swings, brain fog and even forgetfulness. Don’t forget we can of course manage these symptoms.

Love Claire x

Claire Horn