The role of GABA, progesterone, and neurotransmitters in hormonal anxiety
Ideally, progesterone and oestrogen work in harmony after ovulation to regulate mood, sleep, and stress response. But when these hormones are out of balance, it can lead to:
❌ Increased anxiety and mood swings
❌ Irritability or crying spells before your period
❌ Disrupted sleep patterns (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep)
Optimal Hormone Levels (7 Days Post-Ovulation or 7 Days Before Your Period):
✔ Progesterone: & 40 nmol/L
✔ Oestrogen: 350-500 pmol/L
When progesterone is at a healthy level, it supports stable moods and relaxation before your period. If it’s too low, you may feel anxious, restless, and irritable.
Signs of Low Progesterone
Wondering if low progesterone could be impacting your mood? Look out for:
Short cycles (<24 days)
Spotting for more than 2 days before your period
Increased anxiety, crying, or irritability in the lead-up to your period
Low basal body temperature (progesterone naturally raises body temperature post-ovulation)
Common Causes of Low Progesterone
Low progesterone can be influenced by underlying conditions and lifestyle factors, including:
❌ Thyroid dysfunction
❌ PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
❌ Chronic stress (high cortisol suppresses progesterone, through the progesterone steal effect)
❌ Nutrient deficiencies (such as B6, magnesium, and zinc)
How to Naturally Support Progesterone
Balancing progesterone can stabilise mood, improve sleep, and reduce PMS symptoms. Here’s how to support it:
- Key Nutrients & Herbs:
✔ Vitamin B6 – Supports progesterone production and nervous system function
✔ Magnesium – Helps with stress regulation and hormone balance
✔ Chaste Tree (Vitex Agnus-Castus) – Regulates the menstrual cycle and boosts progesterone
✔ Chamomile, Passionflower, Holy Basil, Magnolia – Support GABA production and relaxation
- Supplementation:
✔ Prometrium (Bioidentical Progesterone) – Considered in cases of low progesterone, heavy bleeding, or severe PMS
- Lifestyle Adjustments:
✔ Prioritise sleep – Deep rest is essential for hormonal balance
✔ Reduce stress – Chronic stress lowers progesterone production, both progesterone and cortisol are made from the same mother hormone pregnanolone, but cortisol will also take first dibs on this precursor at the expense of progesterone.
✔ Hydration & Electrolytes – SODII is a great electrolyte option for supporting adrenal health and helping you make more progesterone!
Supporting GABA for Anxiety & Sleep
For those with low progesterone or perimenopausal symptoms, supplementing with GABA can provide additional support for calmness, better sleep, and reduced anxiety.
If you struggle with mood changes before your period, addressing progesterone and GABA could be the missing piece to feeling like yourself again.
Much Love,
Megan
