It's Not Your Hormone Levels, It's Your Brain

If your hormone tests keep coming back "normal" but you still feel awful — this episode explains why. Dr Georgina Standen breaks down the real science behind PMS and PMDD: it's not about how much oestrogen or progesterone you have, it's about how your brain responds to it.In this episode:Why women with PMS and PMDD usually have completely normal hormone levels — and why that's not a dead endThe lab research showing PMDD cells respond differently to the same hormone exposure, right down to gene expressionWhy SSRIs can work within days for PMDD, when standard depression treatment takes weeksThe traditional progesterone-and-GABA explanation — how allopregnanolone should calm the brain, and why it doesn't alwaysWhy hormonal contraception can be so unpredictable for PMDD specifically, and why more isn't always betterHow stress, sleep, and alcohol can amplify an already-sensitive systemSirona Health Podcast is hosted by Dr Georgina Standen, GP and founder of Sirona Health (sironahealth.co.uk), a specialist women's health practice covering menopause, PMS/PMDD and teen health. Book a consultation at sironahealth.co.uk.This podcast is for general information only and doesn't replace individual medical advice — please speak to your GP or a specialist about your own symptoms. If you're struggling, please reach out for support.