Hormone imbalance in females can be caused due to several reasons. This article will tell you more on causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for hormonal imbalance in women.
Hormones are chemicals present in our body that help in performing several bodily functions. They are produced by the glands of the endocrine system and let into the blood stream to reach their target organs. These are divided into two major types: steroids and peptides. Every hormone is responsible for performing certain function and hence, is required in specific amounts by the body. However, sometimes, certain factors can cause increase or decrease in the level of hormones. This is known as hormone imbalance.
Causes
Estrogen and progesterone are the two steroids or female hormones that are required for sexual maturation and reproduction. In case of women, menopause is the most important and common cause of hormone imbalance. Although the monthly menstruation cycle of the woman ends at menopause, the production of estrogen does not end. This leads to imbalance. Secondly, improper or abnormal functioning of the endocrine glands also results in hormone imbalance.
- Birth control pills
- Lack of ovulation
- Obesity
- Stress
- Consuming foods containing pesticides
- Consuming estrogen injected animal products
- Cosmetics
Symptoms
- Allergies
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular periods
- Craving sweets
- Fatigue
- Depression
- PMS
- Dizziness
- Infertility
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Anxiety
- Incontinence
- Mood swings
- Leg cramps
- Night sweats
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Urinary tract infections
- Weight gain
- Yeast infections
This is not an exhaustive list, and women can experience several other signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Sometimes, it is observed that the symptoms of hormone imbalance caused due to menopause subside by themselves as time passes, while, sometimes they can cause a lot of discomfort. If a woman observes any of the above mentioned symptom, she should consult the doctor as early as possible to treat the symptoms and avoid further discomfort.
Treatment
Hormonal imbalance can be effectively treated with several methods. In case it is caused due to deficiency of certain hormones, the doctor prescribes hormone precursors as they help in treating the hormone deficiency. On the other hand, if it is caused due to excess production of certain hormones, drugs known as hormone blockers are prescribed as they obstruct the normal functioning of the excess hormones. Secondly, if the imbalance is caused due to abnormal functioning of any endocrine gland, the doctor may prescribe medication or even advise surgery (in extreme cases).
The hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is another effective treatment that is extensively used these days for treating female hormone imbalance. In this therapy, the hormones that are deficient or lacking are artificially injected in the body. Although expensive, the hormone replacement therapy is one of the most effective treatment for treating imbalance of hormones. However, one should be aware of the side effects associated with this technique.
Hormone imbalance can be prevented by changing lifestyle and having a balanced diet. If suffering from stress, women should undertake stress management techniques like meditation and yoga to get relief from it. Lastly, starting any treatment methods and bringing any changes in diet after menopause should be done only after consulting the doctor.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical professional.
