Hormones are the chemical messengers of the body which are produced in the endocrine glands. They travel around the bloodstream informing the tissues of the action they have to perform. Hormones are actually responsible for controlling major processes of the body including metabolism and reproduction.
Changes in hormones affect everyone from birth to the end of life. Being able to spot the hormone imbalance is a key to maintain a healthy lifestyle and managing the associated symptoms.
The Warning Sign Of Hormonal Imbalance In Females
Persistent Weight Gain
Along with diet, physical activity, lifestyle, our hormone also play a major role in maintaining a healthy weight. When you feel low, there might be a drop in estrogen level making you want to eat more. A drop in estrogen level impacts the levels of leptin, a hormone that regulates food intake.
The endocrine system, thyroid, and the digestive system all play a role in the imbalance that causes weight gain.
Many females think that they put on weight as the age advances but there might be an imbalance in the hormones which might be a cause of you gaining those extra pounds.
Irregular Periods
The menstrual periods in females occur at a gap of 21-35 days. If the menstruation comes early or gets delayed or you miss a month’s cycle be sure there is some hormonal imbalance you are going through.
An irregular period can be a symptom of a health problem such as polycystic ovarian disease. Those in their 40s or 50s might go through this symptom due to the perimenopausal state. It is always good to consult a doctor in this case.
Low Libido
Testosterone is not just present in males; it is present in female bodies too. A low testosterone level in a female is linked with low sex drive.
An imbalance in the estrogen and testosterone hormone can lead to low libido and this is one of the most noticeable symptoms of hormone imbalance.
A study shows modest benefits from testosterone therapy given to postmenopausal women with low sexual desire (1).
Sleep Problems
Disturbed sleep can have imbalanced hormones as the culprits.
Progesterone is a hormone released from the ovaries and helps in getting a sound sleep (2). A lower than normal level of this hormone makes it hard to fall asleep. Also, low estrogen levels lead to hot flashes and night sweats, both of which make it difficult to sleep.
Chronic Acne
Acne breakout before and during periods is normal. If the acne is persistent and won’t clear up, it can signal a hormone problem.
Excess of androgen can make the oil glands to overwork. It also affects the skin cells in and around the hair follicles. This can clog pores and cause acne.
Belly Problems
The gut is lined with tiny receptor cells which respond to estrogen and progesterone. An imbalance in these hormones brings about a change in the digestive process. This is one of the reasons behind diarrhea, stomach bloating, nausea, and stomach pain before and during periods (3).
If experiencing digestive woes along with fatigue and acne get your hormone level checked.
Fatigue
Fatigue is amongst the most common symptom of hormone imbalance. Progesterone excess can make you sleepy. Also, an underactive thyroid hormone can sap away your energy.
Mood Swings
An imbalance in the hormones can bring about an imbalance in your mood too. Estrogens affect brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Most females in midlife experience mood swings and anxiousness in situations they would be calm before. It is due to hormonal imbalance.
Headache
Headache has a lot of triggers and a drop in estrogen is one of them. This is why many females experience headache before and during periods when estrogen level hits low.
Headache coming over at the same time in the month can signal a hormone imbalance.
Vaginal Dryness
Low estrogen levels lead to dryness of the vagina. This hormone is responsible to keep the vagina moist and comfortable.
A drop in estrogen levels can reduce vaginal fluid and cause tightness.
Breast Tightness
Drop, in the estrogen loosen the breast tissue and an increase this hormone thickens it and can even lead to lumps and cysts.
Also, keep a note that some of these symptoms can be a result of any other physical condition. Consult a doctor if any symptom is noticed frequently.
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