Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers. They influence everything from your menstrual cycle, mood and mental health to bone health, energy levels, heart health, and more. When these messengers fall out of balance, you can feel the effects in many ways.
“As a doctor, I often hear women say, ‘Something just feels off,’” said Leslie Saltzman, DO, chief product officer and medical discipline director at Ovia Health by Labcorp and founder of the Rittenhouse Women’s Wellness Center. “Understanding your hormones can help you feel more in control and confident in your health.”
To learn more about the role of hormones in women’s health, we spoke with Dr. Saltzman about women’s hormones, how they change with age and key steps you can take to support your hormone health.
What’s the difference between women’s hormones and men’s hormones?
Both women and men produce the same key hormones—estrogen, progesterone and testosterone—but in different amounts and with different effects.
Estrogen and progesterone play a major role in regulating the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and other aspects of reproductive health. However, men also produce small amounts of these hormones, which support things like bone health and cognitive function.
In women, testosterone helps support bone strength, muscle mass, sex drive, and mood stability. In men, testosterone supports sperm production, muscle mass, and strength among other aspects of physical and mental well-being.
“The real difference lies in hormone levels and balance, not the hormones themselves,” said Dr. Saltzman. “Hormones impact everything from mood to metabolism to reproductive health, no matter your gender.”
How do estrogen and progesterone affect women’s health?
Estrogen and progesterone are key hormones that work together to regulate your menstrual cycle and support your overall health. Estrogen helps build up the uterine lining in the first half of your cycle. It also plays a big role in keeping your bones strong, supporting a stable mood and protecting your heart.
After ovulation, progesterone takes the lead. It prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy, promotes restful sleep and helps calm the body. It also keeps estrogen in check, preventing it from overstimulating the body. When this balance gets disrupted, you might start to notice symptoms.
What are the symptoms of an imbalance in estrogen and progesterone?
Too much estrogen or too little progesterone can lead to heavy or painful periods, mood swings, breast tenderness and weight gain, especially around the hips or belly. On the other hand, low estrogen can cause hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes and bone loss over time. Low progesterone may lead to shorter menstrual cycles, spotting between periods, trouble sleeping or increased anxiety.
“Paying attention to how you feel throughout your cycle can offer helpful clues,” said Dr. Saltzman. If your symptoms are getting in the way of your daily life, understanding this hormone balance can be the first step toward finding relief and working with a provider to explore treatment options that are right for you.
What are other common signs of hormonal imbalances?
Hormonal shifts can show up in subtle or surprising ways. You might notice:
- Irregular or unpredictable periods
- Weight gain (especially around the belly)
- Fatigue that lingers even after rest
- Mood swings, anxiety or depression
- Trouble sleeping
- Thinning hair or dry skin
- Low libido and decreased sex drive
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Bloating or food cravings
- Hot flashes or night sweats—even before menopause
These symptoms can be frustrating, but they’re also important signals from your body.
How does age influence hormone levels?
Hormones naturally change as we age. In your 20s and early 30s, they’re typically stable. But stress, poor sleep or diet can create imbalances.
In your mid-30s, progesterone may begin to decline. This can cause more noticeable premenstrual symptoms or shorter cycles. As you move into your 40s, you may enter perimenopause, the transitional years leading to menopause. Estrogen and progesterone levels become more unpredictable, leading to changes in your period, sleep, mood and more.
After menopause (when you’ve gone 12 months without a period), estrogen and progesterone remain low. This can impact bone health, heart health and more, but with the right support, you can still feel your best.
Remember, changes in your period are common in perimenopause, but they’re not always due to aging. Stress, thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), significant weight changes and some medications can all affect your cycle.
“The key is to notice patterns,” said Dr. Saltzman. “If something feels different or persists, it’s worth checking in with your provider.”
What role do thyroid hormones have in women’s health?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that affects several important bodily functions, including energy, mood, metabolism and menstrual cycles. When the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), it can cause a wide range of symptoms:
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): Fatigue, weight gain, heavy periods, dry skin, depression and brain fog
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism): Anxiety, weight loss, light periods, racing heart and sleep issues
It’s estimated that women are five to eight times more likely to have thyroid problems than men. If you're having symptoms that don’t quite add up, a thyroid check might offer answers.
What are some steps I can take to support my hormone health?
You don’t have to overhaul your life to feel better. Dr. Saltzman suggests starting with small, consistent steps:
- Eat whole foods: Prioritize healthy fats (like avocado and fish), fiber and protein. Limit added sugars and processed foods
- Move your body: Aim for regular, moderate exercise like walking, yoga, strength training. Avoid overdoing it, which can add stress
- Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours each night. A calming bedtime routine and limiting screens can help
- Manage stress: Chronic stress raises cortisol, which disrupts other hormones. Try deep breathing, journaling or spending time outdoors
- Limit hormone disruptors: Choose glass or stainless-steel containers, and look for paraben-free and phthalate-free products
- Talk to your provider before starting supplements, but vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium or certain herbs may help
You know your body best: Hormone health starts with you
Hormonal changes are a normal part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to navigate them alone or feel uncomfortable day after day.
“Your experiences are valid, and it’s always worth sharing concerns with a healthcare provider who understands reproductive and hormonal health,” said Dr. Saltzman.
Hormones play a big role in how you feel day to day—physically, mentally and emotionally. When they’re in balance, they help you feel more like yourself. Whether you’re investigating possible symptoms of hormonal imbalance, navigating a fertility journey or simply curious about your overall hormonal health, Labcorp OnDemand offers the insights you need to learn more about your body, find relief and feel better through every stage of life.
