Hormones are unique chemicals produced in various glands of your body for different purposes. These hormones travel through the bloodstream and regulate many processes like metabolism, sleep-wake cycle, menstrual cycle, and mood. However, your body may experience hormone imbalances when there’s too much or too little of a hormone. The hormone levels naturally fluctuate at different life stages like puberty, phases of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. However, imbalances caused by lifestyle habits and medical conditions may negatively impact your health and wellbeing. So, here are some warning signs of hormonal imbalance every woman should look out for:
- Extreme mood swings
Mood swings are usually caused by an imbalance in the female hormone estrogen. This hormone affects the neurotransmitters in the brain that enhance your mood. Mood swings due to estrogen are most common right before your periods. They also become common during menopause. However, if they become overwhelming and interfere with your everyday life, it indicates an imbalance and requires treatment.
- Painful periods
Many women experience cramps with their periods. This happens because your uterus contracts and shed the inner linings out of your body. But excessive cramping, abdominal pain, frequent urination followed by heavy bleeding is often an indicator of hormonal issues. These imbalances may also occur due to the presence of fibroids.
- Insomnia
Are you having sleep trouble? Sleep holds great importance in your health and wellbeing. However, low estrogen levels in your body can cause problems like night sweats that interrupt your sleep. As a result, you feel worn out early and fatigued during the day. Therefore, you should never ignore prolonged sleep disturbances.
Consider watching this video to know more about how to manage PCOS….
- Acne
Do you keep getting acne flares and can’t figure out why? Various factors, including hormonal imbalances, can cause acne. High levels of androgens in the body, thyroid problems, and polycystic ovarian syndrome can cause these flares.
- Weight gain
Have you been gaining weight or feel bloated all the time without any reason? Do you struggle with weight loss even after trying your best? Unexplained weight gain can be a sign of hormonal issues. Conditions like thyroid disease and PCOS are the most common culprits of gaining weight. The fat deposit from hormonal issues usually targets the lower abdominal area.
- Fertility problems
Hormonal issues are amongst the leading causes of infertility in women. High FSH levels and low Luteinizing hormone reduce women’s chance of getting pregnant. Ovarian cysts can also cause fertility issues by upsetting the hormone levels. If you have difficulty getting pregnant, get your blood test done and consult your general practitioner.
- Vaginal dryness
If you are having vaginal dryness and irritation, it could be due to low estrogen levels in your body. These symptoms usually appear during perimenopause or menopause. Certain medications like contraceptive pills and antidepressants can also alter normal hormone production, causing vaginal dryness. Your doctor can help you find the proper treatment for your hormonal issues and save you from all the hassle.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!