It can feel uncomfortable when your heart suddenly starts beating faster, harder, or more irregularly – especially if you do not feel stressed. Many people immediately worry that something is wrong with their heart, but heart palpitations are actually quite common and can have several different causes.

Hormones can affect the heart more than many people realize.

During the menstrual cycle, levels of estrogen and progesterone change. These hormones influence the nervous system and the body’s sensitivity to things like caffeine, lack of sleep, and stress. For some women, this can make the heartbeat feel more noticeable during certain phases of the cycle.

For example, you may notice that:

• Your heart beats faster before your period

• Palpitations appear when you are tired or sleep deprived

• Caffeine or energy drinks make the symptoms stronger

• Your heart feels “restless” even when you are calm

In many cases, heart palpitations are harmless and disappear on their own. But that does not mean you should ignore them. The body is often signaling that it needs more recovery or balance.

At the same time, there are situations when you should seek medical care, especially if the palpitations happen together with dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting.

Understanding that hormones can influence the heart may reduce anxiety and help you recognize patterns in your body instead of feeling like the symptoms appear out of nowhere.

Alma’s tip:

Try paying attention to when the palpitations happen and whether they seem connected to your cycle. Sleep, nutrition, and recovery affect the body more than many people think. And remember – if something feels wrong or causes strong worry, it is always okay to seek medical advice and get checked.