Ever felt like your mood swings, sleep struggles, or PMS anxiety had a mind of their own? Maybe you’ve heard the claim: “Women have 52% less serotonin than men.” That stat can make you feel like you're running on half a battery. But is it true?
Let’s get into the facts, the nuance, and what this all means for your hormonal health, especially during your period and perimenopause.
Serotonin: Your Mood MVP
Here’s the scoop. Studies show men’s brains synthesise serotonin about 52% faster than women’s¹². That means they produce it at a higher rate, not necessarily that they have more of it.
In fact, serotonin levels in the brain (how much is hanging around) are far less different between the sexes³⁴. Some research even shows that women have more serotonin receptors, which may help us use what we have more effectively⁵. It’s quality over quantity, baby.
And when hormonal shifts (like oestrogen drops) mess with serotonin pathways? That’s when PMS, sleep issues and anxiety can come crashing in.
Frontal Lobes: Women's Secret Superpower?
Here’s a brainy bonus: Women often have a proportionally larger frontal lobe, especially in areas related to decision-making, social reasoning, and impulse control⁶⁷. That’s your prefrontal cortex, aka your personal CEO.
Men might have a larger total brain volume (just because of body size), but when it comes to planning ahead, emotional judgment, and multitasking? Science suggests we’ve got a natural edge⁸.
Functional MRIs even show women using both hemispheres of the brain more often for problem-solving. Multitasking magic? Confirmed⁹.
“Men Lack Forethought”? Let's Cool It.
We love a cheeky meme, but the “men have no forethought” line oversimplifies things. Research does show that men are more prone to impulsivity and risk-taking in some situations¹⁰¹¹, linked partly to differences in serotonin and prefrontal activity.
But that doesn’t mean women are all zen and men are chaos. These tendencies are moderate, with huge overlap and influence from upbringing, stress, and social expectations¹².
So, next time someone blames your PMS on “just hormones,” feel free to drop a knowledge bomb. You’re not emotional, you’re cycling through complex, powerful changes your brain is built to handle.
Natural Support for Hormonal Harmony
Your brain's working hard. So is your body. That’s where Hey Sister! steps in, with drug-free, 100% organic support for your cycle.
Khapregesic® is our plant-based powerhouse, scientifically formulated to help with:
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Period pain and PMS
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Mild anxiety and irritability
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Sleep issues and restlessness
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Gut health and bloating
Backed by community love and herbal science, it’s your cycle’s calm companion. Because your hormones don’t need to derail your day, and you deserve wellness that actually works.
FAQ: What You’re Googling About Hormones and Serotonin
Do women really have 52% less serotonin than men?
Not exactly. Men synthesise serotonin faster, about 52% more quickly, but women may have more receptors and different pathways for serotonin use¹².
Can hormones affect serotonin?
Yes! Oestrogen boosts serotonin production and receptor sensitivity, so hormone fluctuations (like during your period or perimenopause) can influence mood, sleep, and anxiety.
Is PMS linked to serotonin?
Absolutely. Lower serotonin activity has been linked to PMS symptoms like mood swings, irritability and cravings. Natural support like Khapregesic® can help rebalance that.
How can I support my serotonin naturally?
Exercise, sunlight, mindful movement, and gut health all support serotonin. Herbal blends like Khapregesic® work with your body to gently restore balance.
Are women's brains better at multitasking?
Science shows women tend to use both brain hemispheres more equally, and have strengths in areas like emotional regulation, memory, and social reasoning⁸⁹.
