Why does it happen?
Oestrogen and progesterone directly modulate GABA receptors — the brain's natural braking system. When they drop, the nervous system becomes more reactive and stress tolerance decreases. Oestrogen also regulates serotonin and dopamine, whose decline generates a constant state of alertness and difficult-to-control restlessness.
Associated symptoms
- Restlessness or nervousness without apparent cause
- Intrusive or ruminating thoughts, especially at night
- Feeling of impending danger or "bad premonition"
- Easy irritability and disproportionate reactions
- Muscle tension, especially in shoulders and jaw
- Palpitations associated with anxiety episodes
Magnesium bisglycinate (300–400 mg/day) reduces mild to moderate anxiety symptoms by activating GABA receptors. Ashwagandha (600 mg/day) reduces cortisol and perceived anxiety by 30% according to a 2023 meta-analysis.
Regulation strategies
- 4-7-8 diaphragmatic breathing — activates the vagus nerve in seconds
- Magnesium bisglycinate at night — reduces nervous hyperexcitability
- Moderate aerobic exercise — naturally increases GABA and serotonin
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol — both worsen hormonal anxiety
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy or mindfulness — first-line tools
Life Extension Europe® Optimized Ashwagandha Extract
Ashwagandha with standardised Sensoril® extract (10% withanolides), backed by a 60-day clinical trial in 130 adults with chronic stress that showed improvements in cortisol and DHEA balance. It provides 125 mg of extract per capsule; the recommended daily dose of 2 capsules (250 mg/day) is below the 600 mg/day used in the meta-analysis cited above, so adjust with your doctor if you want to get closer to that dose.
PRIMAVERA — Fine Lavender Essential Oil 5 ml
Organic-quality fine lavender essential oil, an aromatherapy classic to encourage calm and support conscious breathing. Complementary aromatic support: it does not replace the ashwagandha or the supplements in the protocol.
PRIMAVERA — "Relax" Essential Oil Blend 5 ml
A synergy of essential oils formulated to relax and ease nervous tension, ideal in a diffuser during moments of greater restlessness. Complementary aromatic support, not a treatment for anxiety.
Notice: this is not medical advice, but a suggestion for an over-the-counter product. Even though it is available without a prescription, consult your doctor before using it.
The information on this page is for general information only and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. If a symptom worries you or affects your daily life, talk to your doctor or gynaecologist.
