Signs your hormones are imbalanced (and how to fix it)

Women’s bodies are complex. Part of what makes them this way is their intricate network of hormones, which are responsible for regulating everything from your mood to your reproductive system. Throughout menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, your body is constantly adapting to hormonal changes. Your hormones can also be disrupted and thrown off balance by factors such as stress, age, diet, environment, medication, lifestyle and genetics, which can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms. So, you may be wondering, “How do I reset my hormone balance?” – well, we’re here to help you decipher the potential reasons behind your hormonal imbalance, and take the necessary steps towards getting your hormones back on track.

Irregular periods

For many women, the menstrual cycle serves as a monthly indicator of hormonal health. Irregular periods – characterised by variations in cycle length, flow or duration – can signal hormonal imbalance. Hormone imbalance in periods of menstruation may manifest as unusually heavy or light bleeding, frequent or absent periods, and unpredictable cycles.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance leading to irregular periods

1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt menstrual cycles due to elevated androgen levels and insulin resistance. It can also cause weight gain, and result in difficulty losing weight.

2. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, which are both forms of thyroid dysfunction, can affect menstrual regularity by influencing the production of oestrogen and progesterone.

3. Chronic stress can also disrupt the delicate interplay of hormones, leading to irregular periods.

Addressing hormonal imbalance leading to irregular periods

1. Nutrient-rich foods, like leafy greens, whole grains and lean proteins, are the best foods to eat for hormonal imbalance.

2. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can mitigate the effects of stress on hormonal health.

3. Consultation with a healthcare provider can help identify underlying conditions such as PCOS or thyroid disorders, and guide appropriate treatment.

Low libido

A lack of interest in sexual activity can be a difficult symptom of hormonal imbalance in women. Fluctuations in oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone and other hormones can dampen libido, impacting intimate relationships and overall wellbeing.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance leading to low libido

1. Decreased oestrogen levels, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, can lead to vaginal dryness and a lower libido.

2. While often associated with males, testosterone also plays a crucial role in female libido. Low testosterone levels can contribute to diminished sexual desire.

3. Psychological factors such as stress and fatigue can lower libido by disrupting hormone production and regulation.

Addressing hormonal imbalance leading to low libido

1. Openly discussing your concerns with your partner and seeking support from a healthcare provider can assist in alleviating the emotional distress you may experience as a result of your low libido.

2. Prioritising sleep, regular exercise and stress-reduction techniques can enhance your libido.

3. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be recommended to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.

Insomnia

Sleep disturbances are often intertwined with hormonal fluctuations, affecting women’s physical and mental health. Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving oestrogen, progesterone, cortisol and melatonin, can disrupt sleep patterns – leading to insomnia and fatigue.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance leading to insomnia

1. Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle can impact sleep quality, particularly during the premenstrual and menstrual phases.

2. Declining oestrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause can contribute to sleep disturbances, including hot flashes and night sweats.

3. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression can disrupt sleep patterns by influencing hormone secretion and regulation.

Addressing hormonal imbalance leading to insomnia

1. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine and optimising your sleep environment can help promote restful sleep.

2. Practising relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery and aromatherapy can alleviate stress and improve sleep quality.

3. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help identify underlying causes of insomnia and guide appropriate treatment, including cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia or medication where necessary.

Infertility

For women hoping to conceive, infertility can be an incredibly difficult manifestation of hormonal imbalance. Disruptions in the delicate interplay of reproductive hormones can impair ovulation, fertilisation and implantation, hindering the journey to parenthood.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance leading to infertility

1. Hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS, such as elevated androgen levels and insulin resistance, can interfere with ovulation and fertility.

2. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can impact fertility by disrupting the menstrual cycle and impairing ovulation.

3. As women age, the quality and quantity of eggs diminishes, reducing fertility and increasing the risk of miscarriage.

Addressing hormonal imbalance leading to infertility

1. Consulting with a fertility specialist can help identify underlying factors contributing to infertility, including hormonal imbalances, and guide personalised treatment.

2. Adopting a healthy lifestyle – including balanced nutrition, regular exercise and stress management – can optimise fertility and reproductive health.

3. Depending on individual circumstances, interventions such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination or ovulation induction may be recommended to overcome infertility challenges.

Hormonal imbalances at every lifestage

Teenage years

A woman’s journey through adolescence is marked by significant hormonal fluctuations. The symptoms of hormonal imbalance in teenage girls can be varied, impacting physical development, emotional wellbeing and menstrual health.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance resulting from puberty

1. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly increased androgen levels, can stimulate sebum production, contributing to acne breakouts during adolescence.

2. It’s common for teenage girls to experience irregular periods during the first few years of their period, while their hormonal patterns establish themselves.

3. Fluctuations in oestrogen, progesterone and other hormones can influence mood regulation, leading to emotional ups and downs.

Addressing hormonal imbalance resulting from puberty

1. Encouraging teenagers to prioritise healthy lifestyle habits, including nutrition, exercise and sleep, can support hormonal balance and overall wellbeing.

2. Fostering open dialogue about puberty, menstruation and emotional health can empower teenagers to navigate hormonal challenges with confidence and resilience.

3. Consulting a healthcare provider for guidance on menstrual health, acne management and emotional wellbeing can provide reassurance and support during this transformative stage.

Pregnancy and postpartum

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are characterised by profound hormonal shifts. There are many signs of hormonal imbalance during pregnancy, often influencing mood, energy levels and physical recovery. These symptoms can also impact women who have suffered a miscarriage or gone through an abortion.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance resulting from pregnancy

1. Elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin can contribute to nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy, commonly known as morning sickness.

2. Hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation and the emotional challenges of motherhood can predispose women to postnatal depletion and even postpartum depression, significantly impacting maternal wellbeing.

3. Hormonal fluctuations associated with lactation can also influence milk production and success with breastfeeding.

Addressing hormonal imbalance resulting from pregnancy

1. Accessing regular prenatal care and consulting with healthcare providers can optimise both maternal and foetal health during pregnancy, addressing concerns and promoting overall wellbeing.

2. Establishing a strong support network, including healthcare providers, family and friends, can help new mothers navigate the challenges of postpartum recovery.

3. Prioritising self-care activities such as rest, nutrition and stress management can support hormonal balance and facilitate postpartum recovery.

Menopause

The menopausal transition represents a significant milestone in a woman’s life, signalling the end of reproductive capacity and the onset of hormonal changes. Fluctuating hormone levels during perimenopause and declining oestrogen levels can give rise to myriad symptoms of hormonal imbalance after menopause, all of which have the potential to impact a woman’s quality of life.

Potential causes of hormonal imbalance resulting from menopause

1. Fluctuations in oestrogen levels can disrupt thermoregulation, leading to sudden sensations of heat, flushing and sweating known as hot flashes.

2. Declining oestrogen levels can result in abdominal weight gain and difficulty losing weight, as well as vaginal atrophy and dryness, contributing to discomfort, pain during intercourse and urinary symptoms.

3. Perimenopause and menopause can also influence mood regulation, predisposing women to irritability, anxiety and depression.

Addressing hormonal imbalance resulting from menopause

1. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be recommended to alleviate menopausal symptoms by restoring hormonal balance and mitigating vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.

2. Implementing lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating and stress management techniques can support hormonal balance and alleviate menopausal symptoms.

3. Exploring complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal supplements and mind-body practices can offer some relief from menopausal symptoms.

Navigating hormonal imbalances with confidence

By recognising the signs of hormonal imbalance and implementing targeted strategies to address them, women can feel empowered to reclaim agency over their health. If you’d like to have a trusted Sydney naturopath by your side as you work towards overcoming the symptoms of hormonal imbalance, get in touch with our friendly team of women’s health specialists. At Papaya Clinic, we’re committed to improving your overall wellbeing by helping you keep your hormonal health in check.