Recent research shows a strong connection between estrogen levels and women's depression across the life span. Abrupt changes in estrogen levels, such as at puberty, during and after pregnancy, and at menopause, can affect a woman's moods in significant, obvious, and uncomfortable ways. But these estrogen fluctuations can be managed through various treatments, including medication and lifestyle changes. This book takes a new, explorational approach to this important topic but also includes practical advice and tips for managing mood changes related to estrogen fluctuation. It begins by taking a look at how estrogen affects the brain and mood. It then explores all of the major stages in a woman's life—from puberty to menstruation to pregnancy and the postpartum period, on to perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause—explaining in layperson's terms what the most recent research tells us about these life stages, and specifically, how the levels of estrogen and other hormones in a woman's body contributes to mood changes. [Edit review] [Delete review]