Overview
Our bodies contain chemicals called hormones. These chemicals are the body’s messenger system for various systems and processes, including the menstrual cycle in women. An imbalance can arise if you have too much or too little of one or more hormones. The body requires precise levels of hormones to function properly. Even a minor imbalance can cause significant effects, especially with the menstrual cycle.
What’s the Outlook for a Hormonal Imbalance?
If you have a hormone imbalance, there are various treatments to help bring your hormones back to appropriate levels and restore balance. Depending on the underlying cause of the imbalance, as well as the specific hormones in question, treatments can vary, but there are ways to manage symptoms and bring hormone levels back to normal.
If there’s an underlying condition causing the hormone imbalance, long-term management of the condition will help ensure hormonal balance. Hormone levels change and fluctuate over time; they don’t remain static. It’s important to be aware of your body’s symptoms. Talk with your healthcare provider about any changes you might notice, especially after giving birth or while going through perimenopause.
Causes of a Hormonal Imbalance
A hormonal imbalance has many possible causes. They can differ depending on which hormones or glands are affected. Common causes of hormonal imbalance include:
- hormone therapy
- medications
- cancer treatments such as chemotherapy
- tumors, whether cancerous or benign
- pituitary tumors
- eating disorders
- stress
- injury or trauma
While hormonal imbalances may initially cause some of the conditions below, having these conditions can also lead to further hormonal imbalances:
- type 1 and type 2 diabetes
- diabetes insipidus
- hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid
- hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid
- hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules
- thyroiditis
- hypogonadism
- Cushing syndrome, or high levels of cortisol
- congenital adrenal hyperplasia, which causes low levels of cortisol and aldosterone
- Addison’s disease
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Can a Hormone Imbalance Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?
Hormones can fluctuate at different times in a women’s life, especially during: puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, breastfeeding, and menopause. Depending on which hormones are imbalanced, as well as the underlying cause of the hormone imbalance, symptoms can vary. They can include:
- irregular, light, or very heavy periods
- hair loss
- vaginal dryness or pain with intercourse
- acne
- weight gain
- hot flashes or night sweats
- growth of facial hair
- skin tags
Conditions and factors that can cause hormone imbalances in women that can affect the menstrual cycle include:
- diabetes
- thyroid problems
- eating disorders
- stress
- tumors
- polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- primary ovarian insufficiency
- medications
Tests and Diagnosis
There’s no single test available to help doctors diagnose a hormonal imbalance. Begin by making an appointment with your doctor for a physical exam. Be prepared to describe your symptoms and the timeline along which they’ve occurred. Bring a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you’re currently taking. Your doctor may ask you questions such as:
- How often are you experiencing symptoms?
- Does anything help relieve your symptoms?
- Have you lost or gained weight recently?
- Are you more stressed than usual?
- When was your last period?
- Are you planning to get pregnant?
- Do you have trouble getting or maintaining an erection?
- Do you have vaginal dryness or pain during sex?
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may suggest one or more diagnostic tests. You can also request that your doctor perform these tests.
Natural Remedies and Supplements
Many nutritional supplements on the market claim to treat menopause and hormonal imbalances. However, few of them are backed up by scientific evidence. Many of these supplements contain plant-derived hormones. These are sometimes called “bioidentical” hormones because they chemically resemble the body’s natural hormones. There’s no evidence to suggest that they work better than regular hormone therapy, however.
Some people find that yoga helps ease symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Yoga is excellent for your strength, flexibility, and balance. It may also aid in weight loss, which can help regulate your hormones. You can also make the following lifestyle changes:
- Lose weight. If your doctor has recommended it, a reduction in body weight may help regulate menstrual cycles and increase the chances of getting pregnant. Weight loss may also help improve erectile function.
- Eat well. A balanced diet is an important part of overall health.
- Decrease vaginal discomfort. Use lubes or moisturizers free of parabens, glycerin, and petroleum.
- Avoid hot flash triggers when possible. Try to identify things that commonly trigger your hot flashes, such as warm temperatures, spicy foods, or hot beverages.
- Remove unwanted hair. If you have excess facial or body hair, you can use hair removal cream, laser hair removal, or electrolysis.
Conclusion
Hormonal imbalances can significantly impact various aspects of health, including the menstrual cycle, mood, and overall well-being. While common, these imbalances can often be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, or treating underlying conditions. It’s important to seek medical advice if symptoms persist, as early intervention can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.