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It's all in your brain

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Cycle Syncing, Menstruation, StressDecember 8, 2025

The Holiday Hormone Crash: Why December Feels Overwhelming - And What Your Brain Has to Do With It

December has a way of intensifying things - emotionally and physically. As routines shift and stimulation rises, the brain’s natural luteal-phase sensitivity becomes easier to feel, making mood changes and pain flare more noticeable. This piece unpacks the neuroscience behind the “holiday hormone crash” and why understanding it makes the season feel easier.

Black Lutea™ device sitting on grey background
Lutea™, Samphire, HSA/FSADecember 1, 2025

Save an Average of 30%* With HSA/FSA Dollars on Lutea and Samphire

HSA and FSA reimbursement now applies to both Lutea™ and Samphire, making cycle-aware wellbeing more accessible than ever. Whether you’re using Lutea™ to bring more calm and stability across the month or turning to the Samphire app for deeper brain–body insight, you can now get an average of 30%* back when you submit your purchase for reimbursement. This guide walks you through exactly how it works, why it matters, and how to start saving on the tools that support your brain throughout your cycle.

PMDD
PMDDNovember 30, 2025

Is PMDD in your genes?

PMDD isn’t caused by a single gene, but genetics can raise your risk by affecting how your brain responds to hormones. Changes in estrogen-related genes and GABAA receptors heighten luteal-phase sensitivity, while environment and epigenetics also play a major role.

Period Care
PeriodsNovember 28, 2025

How Often Should You Change Your Pad? Period Care Tips

Changing pads every 4–6 hours prevents bacteria, odor, and irritation. Heavy flow may need changes every 2–3 hours; overnight pads last 8–10 hours. Tracking flow and using brain-support tools like Lutea™ helps manage comfort, routine, and overall cycle wellbeing.

PMDD
PMDDNovember 27, 2025

PMDD and eating disorders: The hidden overlap

PMDD can heighten appetite changes, body image distress, and emotional eating, increasing the risk of bulimia and binge eating disorder. Hormonal shifts and serotonin imbalances play a key role, making mood support essential for managing these interconnected symptoms.

BPD vs PMDD
PMDD, BPDNovember 26, 2025

Borderline Personality Disorder and PMDD: What’s the confusion?

PMDD is often mistaken for BPD because both share intense mood swings and irritability, but the key difference is timing. PMDD symptoms appear in the luteal phase and ease with menstruation, while BPD is ongoing. Tracking cycles can help reveal the true cause.