The Mood During the Luteal Phase (Pre-Menstrual Phase)

What Is the Luteal Phase?

The luteal phase, the period between ovulation and menstruation, is when mental and physical discomfort often occurs. In the first half of this phase, estrogen and progesterone levels rise, only to drop suddenly in the latter half. This continued hormonal imbalance frequently leads to mental and physical disturbances. The steep decline in hormones toward the end of the luteal phase removes the beneficial effects that these hormones have on the brain, resulting in symptoms like premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or, in more severe cases, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can disrupt daily life.

Discomfort Due to Basal Body Temperature Rise

Basal body temperature (BBT) refers to the body’s temperature at rest, typically measured each morning upon waking. Tracking this temperature daily helps in understanding bodily changes and rhythms essential for conception.

During the luteal phase, the increase in progesterone raises BBT, putting the body in a "high-temperature phase." This elevated temperature can lead to fatigue and drowsiness. Higher BBT during this phase also results in less temperature fluctuation throughout the day. Normally, body temperature decreases during sleep, which facilitates deeper sleep; however, in the luteal phase, elevated BBT often leads to lighter sleep, causing tiredness and sluggishness during the day.

Relaxing with Aromatherapy

The release of female hormones like estrogen and progesterone is regulated by the brain’s hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which send signals to the ovaries to initiate hormone production. PMS and related issues may result from disruptions in this pathway, affecting hormone regulation.

Aromatherapy can be an ally in managing these symptoms. Certain essential oils have physiological effects similar to those of female hormones. When these scents reach the brain, they help regulate hormone levels and balance hormonal fluctuations.

A study conducted by an obstetrician-gynecologist from Tokyo Medical University found that one month of aromatherapy using essential oils—such as true lavender, geranium, Roman chamomile, sweet orange, and clary sage—resulted in significant improvement: 33% of participants experienced full relief, and 67% showed moderate improvement. If you feel discomfort during the luteal phase, consider using aromatherapy as part of your self-care routine.