Mast Cells, Histamine and Female Hormones: Why Some Women React Differently
If your skin flares up, your gut feels reactive, or you find yourself flushed, itchy, or anxious around your period or during perimenopause, you’re not imagining it. There’s growing evidence that female hormones can directly influence immune cells called mast cells, changing how much histamine your body releases. These hormone–immune interactions may explain why some women experience cyclical symptoms that cross several systems — skin, digestion, mood, and energy — yet have never been fully explained by hormones alone.
What Is “Reproductive Depression”?
Many women notice that their mood changes around times of hormonal fluctuation — before a period, after having a baby, or during the perimenopause. For some, these changes are mild; for others, they can be life-altering. This pattern is increasingly recognised as a distinct form of depression known as reproductive depression. Here, I explain what that means, why hormones can influence the brain so profoundly, and how this understanding is helping us shape more effective, personalised treatments.
The Future of PMDD Treatment: Neuroactive Steroids
New research is changing how we understand and treat PMDD. Instead of suppressing hormones, emerging treatments known as neuroactive steroids work by calming the brain’s response to hormonal change. Here, Dr Georgina Standen explains how brexanolone and zuranolone work, what current evidence shows, and what this could mean for women in the UK.
The Best Birth Control Pills for PMS and PMDD (and Which to Avoid)
Can the pill help PMS or PMDD? For many women, yes — but the type, dose, and how you take it all matter. Dr Georgina Standen explains which contraceptive pills may improve premenstrual symptoms, which can make them worse, and how to choose the right approach for you.
Medication Options for PMS and PMDD
Struggling with PMS or PMDD? Dr Georgina Standen explores all the effective treatments — from SSRIs and SNRIs to HRT, contraceptive pills, GnRH analogues, and more — with a focus on personalised, evidence-based care.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM): Understanding Your Options
Many women experience vaginal dryness, discomfort or urinary changes after menopause — but you don’t have to live with it. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is common and treatable. From moisturisers and lubricants to Gina®, Ovesse®, Imvaggis® and prasterone, discover safe and effective options to restore comfort and confidence.
Natural and Lifestyle Treatments for PMS and PMDD
Lifestyle and natural treatments can significantly reduce PMS and PMDD symptoms. From exercise and diet to supplements, herbs, and CBT, explore evidence-based strategies that support hormonal balance.
I Never Tolerated the Pill, So I Can’t Take HRT” – Busting a Common Menopause Myth
Many women worry that because they didn’t tolerate the pill in their 20s, they won’t tolerate HRT in menopause. In reality, the two treatments are very different — HRT uses lower doses of body-identical hormones tailored to your needs, and many women who struggled with the pill find they thrive on HRT.
Why Hormone Sensitivity — Not Hormone Levels — Causes PMS and PMDD
Normal hormone levels don’t mean no symptoms. PMS and PMDD often stem from hormone sensitivity—especially to progesterone—rather than “imbalances.” Learn what this means and what treatments can help.
Dydrogesterone for HRT: Safer Progestogen Choice?
Dydrogesterone is emerging as a progestogen with a gentler side effect and safety profile compared to others. Learn what the latest studies show and whether Estradiol + Dydrogesterone HRT might be the right choice for you.
The 200+ Symptoms of PMS You Might Not Know About
PMS can show up in over 200 different ways—from bloating and headaches to mood swings and fatigue. Some symptoms overlap with the diagnostic criteria for PMDD, which is often confused with bipolar disorder. Understanding your personal pattern is the first step to clarity and relief. Explore the full list of symptoms, learn what’s “normal,” and find out when to seek help.
Slynd®: The New Generation Progesterone-Only Pill Now Available in the UK
Slynd® (drospirenone 4 mg) is reshaping progesterone-only contraception in the UK: predictable dosing, improved tolerability, and effective protection for adults and adolescents
Do You Really Need an Estradiol Blood Test During Menopause?
Many women are told they need an estradiol blood test to confirm menopause or to monitor hormone replacement therapy (HRT). But the truth is, blood levels don’t always reflect what’s happening in your body. In most cases, your symptoms — not a single blood test result — are the most reliable guide. Learn why estradiol testing is rarely necessary, when it can be helpful, and how a personalised approach leads to better menopause care.
How PMS and PMDD Are Diagnosed
Wondering whether your symptoms are PMS or PMDD? Diagnosis relies on tracking cycles, using tools like the PSST and Mortola Calendar, and ruling out other causes. Here’s how doctors make the distinction and why symptom records are essential.
Menopause or Thyroid Disease? How to Tell the Difference
Feeling tired, foggy, or just not yourself in midlife? Menopause and thyroid disease share many of the same symptoms — from fatigue and mood swings to weight changes and poor sleep. At Sirona Health, our perimenopause blood panels include thyroid screening, with advanced testing available if needed. Find out how checking both can help you get answers and feel like yourself again.
How Common Are PMS and PMDD?
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects nearly half of women worldwide, while the more severe Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is less common but often underdiagnosed. This blog explores how common PMS and PMDD really are, why prevalence rates vary, and the challenges researchers face in understanding these conditions.
PMS vs PMDD: Understanding the Key Differences
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are often confused — but they’re not the same. PMS is common and can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms, while PMDD is a severe, often disabling condition that affects mood, work, and relationships. In this post, we’ll explain the key differences, how doctors diagnose PMS and PMDD, and what treatments are available.
The Saliva Test Revolutionising Endometriosis Diagnosis
A breakthrough saliva test is transforming endometriosis diagnosis — no surgery, no long waits. Using microRNA profiling and AI, this non-invasive tool delivers up to 96% accuracy, helping patients get answers sooner and plan treatment with confidence.