When Hormones and Emotions Intersect: Emotionally Focused Therapy for Women with Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorders are characterized by significant disruptions in mood regulation and affective stability, which may be further intensified by cyclical changes in ovarian hormones. Fluctuations in estradiol and progesterone influence neural systems involved in emotional processing, stress responsivity, and cognitive regulation. Utilizing current neurobiological and clinical literature, this conceptual article explores the intersection of the menstrual cycle-related hormonal fluctuations and Bipolar Disorders in women through the lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). By integrating menstrual cycle awareness, clinicians may better support emotional regulation and reduce the risk of affective dysregulation during hormonally sensitive phases.