The Role of Hormones in Pregnancy-Related Emotional Changes

18th September, 2025 | By:Soumya Singh

Have you ever felt like your emotions were on a rollercoaster you didn’t sign up for? Many women experience intense emotional fluctuations during pregnancy – from unexpected tears to bursts of laughter triggered by something as small as a song, an Instagram reel, or even a kind word. While every pregnancy is unique, these emotional shifts have a real biological basis.

Research shows that pregnant women experience significantly more mood swings than non-pregnant women, regardless of mental health history (Li et al., 2020).

These changes aren’t imaginary – they’re rooted in both hormonal fluctuations and the body’s shifting ability to regulate emotions.

Understanding how hormones affect mood can help pregnant individuals and their loved ones approach these changes with compassion, awareness, and support

Hormones and Mood Changes in Pregnancy

Pregnancy sets off a cascade of hormonal changes that impact nearly every part of the body – including the brain. These shifts begin early and continue throughout the three trimesters, often influencing emotions in subtle and dramatic ways

Studies suggest that these hormonal shifts are also linked to changes in brain structure and emotional processing (Rehbein et al., 2022). Hormones interact closely with neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which regulate mood, stress, and sleep. When hormone levels change rapidly, they can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to emotional fluctuations

Key Hormones That Influence Mood During Pregnancy

• EstrogenEstrogen levels increase dramatically during pregnancy – up to 100 times higher by the third trimester. This hormone supports fetal development and regulates key systems like the placenta and uterus. It also affects serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood, sleep, and appetite.Fluctuations in estrogen can lead to heightened emotional sensitivity. Crying more easily or feeling overwhelmed isn't a sign of weakness – it’s a natural response to biochemical changes in the brain
• ProgesteroneProgesterone helps maintain the uterine lining and prevents early contractions. Known for its calming effects, it interacts with GABA to promote relaxation. Yet, paradoxically, high levels of progesterone can cause fatigue, sadness, or emotional numbness. Many women describe this as “emotional fog” or a sense of disconnection. It’s also linked to low energy, tearfulness, and moodiness, especially during the first trimester.
• hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)This is one of the first hormones produced after conception and is what pregnancy tests detect. hCG doesn’t directly affect mood, but it supports estrogen and progesterone production and contributes to early symptoms like nausea and fatigue. When you’re physically drained, emotional resilience drops – which is why mood shifts often start even if hormones aren't the direct cause
• OxytocinOxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” rises steadily and peaks during labor. It promotes bonding, emotional connection, and trust, especially between partners and with the baby.While oxytocin strengthens emotional bonds, it can also increase emotional sensitivity.Sentimental moments may trigger tears more easily, especially when combined with stress or sleep deprivation
• CortisolCortisol, the body’s stress hormone, naturally rises during pregnancy to help with fetal development, especially lung function. However, elevated cortisol levels can increase anxiety, irritability, and emotional overwhelm (Leff-Gelman et al., 2020). Knowing that higher stress levels are biologically expected can help normalize these feelings – and encourage strategies for stress relief
• ProlactinProlactin supports milk production and rises in later pregnancy. It also promotes emotional bonding. However, after birth, prolactin imbalances can contribute to emotional lows or even postpartum depression

Beyond Hormones: Physical and Social Factors

Hormones aren’t the only contributors to emotional shifts during pregnancy. Physical discomfort, sleep loss, and social dynamics all play a part.

• Sleep DeprivationPoor sleep is common during pregnancy and can worsen mood swings. Research shows that disrupted sleep during pregnancy and postpartum increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and difficulty regulating emotions (Bei et al., 2015)
• Physical DiscomfortBack pain, nausea, and general fatigue can drain emotional energy. When the body is in discomfort, emotional resilience naturally declines.
• Social SupportFeeling isolated or unsupported increases stress and can worsen emotional instability. A review found that higher social support during pregnancy correlates with improved well-being and lower rates of depression and anxiety (Battulga et al., 2021)
• Mental Health HistoryEven individuals with no prior mental health conditions can develop anxiety or depression during pregnancy. A 2024 study by Jalal, Alsebeiy, and Alshealah found that over half of pregnant women reported symptoms of anxiety, along with significant stress and depressive symptoms. Social, medical, and demographic factors — like age, education, and pregnancy history — were closely tied to these emotional changes.

Managing Emotional Well-being During Pregnancy

Being proactive about emotional health is essential. Here are a few simple, evidence-based ways to manage mood shifts:

• Prioritize sleep: Fatigue intensifies emotional reactivity. Build a sleep routine, use supportive pillows, and take short naps when possible.
• Eat regularly: Balanced meals help stabilize blood sugar and mood.
• Exercise gently: Prenatal yoga, walking, or swimming can release feel-good hormones like endorphins
• Practice mindfulness: Journaling, breathing exercises, or meditation can bring emotional clarity
• Stay connected: Share your feelings with a partner, friends, or join a prenatal group.
• Seek help when needed: If sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness lasts more than two weeks or interferes with daily life, reach out to a mental health professional.

Final Thoughts

If you’re experiencing emotional ups and downs, know that they’re a natural part of pregnancy. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and social stressors all play a role — but none of these are your fault.

With awareness, support, and self-care, you can nurture your mental health while supporting your baby’s growth. You’re not alone — and you deserve care, compassion, and understanding during this life-changing time.