Psycho-Babble Medication Thread 2430

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relation between bipolar disorder and hormones

Posted by Beth on January 15, 1999, at 20:51:55

Help. I am trying to research this topic for a friend. She suffers from bipolar disorder. She had her first episode soon after the birth of her child 20 years ago and has a few episodes over the years since then. Suddenly, in the past 8 monthes, she has had to be hospitalized on 2 occasions and is questioning whether hormones are responsible as she is also going through menopause at the moment. Is anyone aware of any studies out there regarding this possible connection? She takes lithium. Thanks for your help.
Beth

Re: relation between bipolar disorder and hormones

Posted by Sean on January 19, 1999, at 13:04:56

In reply to relation between bipolar disorder and hormones, posted by Beth on January 15, 1999, at 20:51:55

> Help. I am trying to research this topic for a friend. She suffers from bipolar disorder. She had her first episode soon after the birth of her child 20 years ago and has a few episodes over the years since then. Suddenly, in the past 8 monthes, she has had to be hospitalized on 2 occasions and is questioning whether hormones are responsible as she is also going through menopause at the moment. Is anyone aware of any studies out there regarding this possible connection? She takes lithium. Thanks for your help.
> Beth

Beth-

There is a enormous amount of information which
talks about the role of hormones in bipolar
disorder. It seems that many women develop this
disease post-partum. Women are also more likely
to have rapid-cycling forms of the illness due
to the monthly rise and fall of hormones.

I also recently read that a womens nervous system
is in "high gear" just before and after pregnancy.
Women are capable of intense learning and focus
during this time. This might also increase the
chance of triggering latent BPD.

I have heard that some doctors supplement lithium
with thyroid hormone supplements. I have not
heard about using estrogens or progesterones to
stabilize mood. Hope this helps!

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