Oxytocin Might Help Alleviate Mood Fluctuations in Women Experiencing Sleep Disruption

Recent research presented at ENDO 2025, the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society, suggests that oxytocin, commonly known as "the love hormone," could play a protective role in mitigating mood disturbances caused by sleep disruptions. This is particularly relevant for women during key reproductive phases such as postpartum and menopause, when hormonal fluctuations often lead to sleep disturbances and emotional challenges.

The study, conducted by scientists from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, investigated how sleep interruptions and estrogen suppression affect mood and oxytocin levels in healthy premenopausal women. Their findings reveal that during periods of sleep fragmentation—simulating common conditions experienced during reproductive transitions—oxytocin levels tend to increase. Notably, women with higher pre-sleep disruption oxytocin levels reported fewer mood disturbances the following day.

This research involved 38 women who completed two separate five-night inpatient protocols. In one phase, participants experienced natural hormonal states, while in the other, their estradiol was suppressed. Sleep was interrupted over three nights to mimic typical postpartum or menopausal sleep patterns. Mood and oxytocin levels were measured throughout the study. Results showed a significant link: higher oxytocin levels before sleep disruption were associated with reduced negative mood effects.

These findings open new perspectives on managing mood symptoms during reproductive hormonal shifts. Traditionally, treatments focus on antidepressants and hormone therapy; however, understanding oxytocin's natural role as a mood stabilizer could lead to more holistic approaches to supporting women's mental health during these vulnerable periods.

"Our study indicates that oxytocin responds to stress caused by sleep loss, and women with elevated oxytocin levels tend to experience less mood disturbance. This suggests that oxytocin could serve as a biological buffer during hormonal and emotional vulnerability," explains Dr. Irene Gonsalvez. As millions of women face mood swings during postpartum and menopause, this research highlights the importance of exploring natural, biological solutions for emotional well-being.

The study underscores the need for further research into oxytocin's potential as a natural mood modulator, potentially offering new avenues for enhancing mental health support for women navigating hormonal changes and sleep disruptions.