Hormonal Health Stress is a normal part of life, but ongoing stress can affect more than your mood. It can also influence your hormones, ovulation, menstrual cycle, sleep, appetite, and overall well-being. If your period suddenly becomes irregular, lighter, heavier, earlier, or later than usual, stress may be one of the contributing factors. The connection between stress and menstrual health is closely linked to the way the brain communicates with the reproductive system. Whe