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The state of the hormonal profile directly affects women’s health. Physical and neuropsychic overload, chronic diseases, and other causes can trigger hormonal imbalance. As a result, not only the reproductive system but the entire body is affected.
The state of the hormonal profile directly affects women’s health. Physical and neuropsychic overload, chronic diseases, and other causes can trigger hormonal imbalance. As a result, not only the reproductive system but the entire body is affected. Hormones are biologically active substances that influence the functioning of all organs. In women, they also control the activity of the reproductive organs and regulate the menstrual cycle and lactation. Successful conception and pregnancy depend on the hormonal milieu. Hormonal disturbances in the body can lead to various diseases. This condition requires comprehensive evaluation to identify the causes of the changes and to guide further correction.
The Role of Hormones in a Woman’s Body
Hormones are highly important substances that safeguard our health and are responsible for many processes:
coordinate the work of internal organs,
regulate bodily activity,
maintain homeostasis—the constancy of the internal environment (blood pressure, temperature, acid–base balance, etc.).
Brief Guide to the Female Endocrine System
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Produced by the pituitary gland. They help the oocyte mature and be released into the fallopian tube. They influence secondary sex characteristics: skin structure and density, muscle mass formation, and hair growth.
Prolactin. Produced by the anterior pituitary. Initiates and maintains lactation. Excess prolactin may indicate diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes mellitus, or hepatic failure.
Oxytocin. Crucial for childbirth (facilitates cervical contractions) and breastfeeding (promotes milk let-down).
Estrogens (primarily estradiol). Necessary for ovulation, conception, and normal pregnancy. They form “estrogen protection”: preserve the beauty of skin, hair, and nails; influence serotonin production; protect blood vessels from atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction; and stimulate growth and strengthening of bone tissue.
Progesterone. Prepares the uterus for implantation of the fertilized ovum. Essential for carrying a pregnancy. Progesterone deficiency may result in miscarriage.
Androgens. “Male” sex hormones that are also produced in small amounts in women. Responsible for secondary sex characteristics. If excessive, they can cause conception problems; in women, hair begins to grow in a male pattern.
Thyroid hormones: TSH, T3, and T4. Stimulate tissue growth and development; critical for the reproductive, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. Deficiency or excess can cause conception difficulties.
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). A marker of ovarian reserve—the reproductive potential of a woman.
What Is a Hormonal “Failure”?
Hormones control physiological processes, moving through the bloodstream between tissues and organs. They are produced by the endocrine glands. Two brain structures regulate this process—the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. The former monitors hormone levels and gives “commands” to the latter. The pituitary produces substances that influence the activity of other endocrine glands.
The totality of all hormones is called the hormonal profile. It changes under the influence of internal and external factors: metabolism, general condition, age, neurogenic stress, etc. In women, the hormonal milieu is “tied” to the menstrual cycle and varies by phase: oocyte maturation, ovulation, menstruation. It also changes with the onset of pregnancy and at menopause.
A disturbance in the production of any hormone is called a hormonal imbalance. In common parlance, this often refers to menstrual irregularities. In reality, dysfunction of the reproductive system and an irregular menstrual cycle are consequences of hormonal imbalance.
Causes of Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal changes may be physiological. They occur in adolescents during puberty, in pregnant and breastfeeding women, and with the onset of menopause. In each of these periods, the female body undergoes restructuring with internal and external changes.
During sexual maturation, menstruation begins and external signs appear: body hair growth and breast development. As a woman approaches the climacteric stage, the ovarian reserve (oocyte supply) is exhausted; synthesis of sex hormones first declines and then ceases. Even the skin changes—becoming dry and flaccid.
Hormonal balance is often disrupted by stress. Cortisol levels rise sharply, causing dysfunction across different bodily systems.
Other factors that cause hormonal imbalance include:
disorders of the endocrine glands,
decreased immunity,
inflammatory processes,
infections, viral diseases, STIs,
use of antidepressants,
discontinuation of oral contraceptives,
gastrointestinal diseases,
diabetes mellitus,
stroke, encephalitis, traumatic brain injury,
high physical and emotional loads,
chronic overexertion,
hormone therapy,
oncologic diseases,
genitourinary problems,
intoxication,
genetic predisposition.
Main Signs of Hormonal Imbalance
Peak hormone concentrations in the female body occur between ages 30 and 45. For various reasons, synthesis of one or more hormones may be disrupted, causing unpleasant sensations and bodily changes.
Chronic fatigue. Persistent sleepiness may be caused by excess progesterone. Exhaustion is observed with excessive TSH secretion.
Menstrual irregularities. Normally, the menstrual interval ranges from 21 to 35 days and may vary by a couple of days. If the discrepancy exceeds a week, the cycle is considered irregular. In women over 40, this may indicate impending menopause. In other cases, it is a reason to evaluate the reproductive system; polycystic ovary syndrome may present this way.
Sleep disturbances. Sleep becomes shallow, with frequent nocturnal awakenings; insomnia appears.
Changes in the breasts. With estrogen deficiency they become less dense; with excess, they become engorged. With estrogen dominance (relative predominance of estrogens over progesterone), dense structures and cysts appear in the breasts.
Digestive disturbances—constipation, diarrhea. Occur with both deficiency and excess of thyroid hormones; estrogen dominance can also cause such problems.
Hair loss. May reflect disrupted production of thyroid hormones, prolactin, estradiol, or progesterone. The hormone dihydrotestosterone can also cause hair loss.
Weight gain. When testosterone and thyroid hormones decrease while insulin and cortisol are excessive, metabolism slows. Cravings for flour-based and sweet foods appear. Adipose mass begins to accumulate, especially in the abdomen. Weight loss may also occur due to hormonal disorders.
Headaches, migraine. May also occur during menstruation due to imbalance between estrogens and progesterone.
Vaginal dryness, discomfort and pain during intercourse. Caused by estrogen deficiency.
Purulent and acneiform eruptions on the face, back, chest. Due to pore blockage from active sebaceous secretion (excess androgens).
Memory and concentration disorders, distractibility indicate hormonal imbalance, particularly thyroid dysfunction.
Inability to conceive. Conception problems often arise with progesterone deficiency, considered the “hormone of motherhood.”
If these symptoms are detected, it makes sense to seek consultation with an endocrinologist or gynecologist. It is important to determine which hormones are deficient or, conversely, excessive. For example, with high estrogen concentrations women may experience decreased libido, uncontrolled weight gain, or chronic fatigue.
Hormonal Imbalance in Perimenopause and Menopause
As menopause approaches, endocrine gland activity becomes less robust. The following symptoms appear:
hot flashes,
irritability or apathy,
problems with concentration and memory,
headaches,
arterial hypertension,
increased appetite,
insomnia,
skin becomes less firm and elastic.
Pregnancy and Hormones
During pregnancy, “global” changes occur in a woman’s body. The following hormones begin to be produced actively:
hCG. Its appearance in blood indicates pregnancy. Every two days the hCG concentration doubles and reaches a maximum by weeks 8–10. In the second half of gestation it remains at a plateau. Tracking hCG dynamics helps assess whether the pregnancy is progressing normally. Under its influence, the corpus luteum in the ovaries does not regress and produces progesterone, and the next menstruation is blocked.
Estrogen. Secreted in amounts 30 times higher than usual. Responsible for normal pregnancy and fetal development; causes enlargement of the mammary glands.
Progesterone is normally produced throughout gestation. It is necessary to protect the fetus from maternal rejection and relaxes uterine musculature.
With hormonal disorders in the expectant mother, there is pathology of follicular maturation, changes in endometrial thickness, and possible development of uterine fibroids. During pregnancy, deficiency of iodine and iron—necessary for normal thyroid function—may occur.
Consequences of Disorders of the Hormonal System
In the absence of treatment, serious complications may arise:
infertility,
benign and malignant neoplasms, e.g., endometrial polyps or uterine fibroids,
cardiovascular diseases,
digestive disorders,
diabetes mellitus,
asthma,
atherosclerosis, stroke, myocardial infarction,
overweight/obesity,
depression and other mental disorders.
Diagnosis of Hormonal Imbalance
Laboratory diagnostics make it possible to determine the causes of hormonal imbalance. Before testing, it is recommended to abstain from alcohol and smoking and avoid significant physical exertion. For 8–12 hours, no food or sweet drinks should be consumed.
The following tests are required:
blood tests (biochemical, complete blood count),
hormonal assays: LH, FSH, prolactin, testosterone, estradiol (on cycle days 3–5), progesterone (on days 22–23), thyroid hormones,
urinalysis,
ultrasound of the thyroid, mammary glands, and pelvic organs,
colposcopy—examination of the cervix and vagina using a special microscope.
Treatment of Hormonal Imbalance in Moscow at Expert Clinics
After determining the causes of hormonal imbalance, therapy is prescribed. Treatment is provided by a gynecologist–endocrinologist.
A comprehensive approach includes prescribing vitamin–mineral complexes, dietary supplements, and hormone replacement therapy strictly according to indications. Therapeutic exercise and physiotherapy are also used to stabilize the hormonal profile. If necessary, the attending physician refers the patient to subspecialists.
At Expert Clinics, principles of anti-aging (anti-age) medicine are applied, which is our main advantage. Based on many years of scientific research, we have compiled complete and unique information on the causes of early aging and hormonal disorders at a young age.
Our specialists use an individualized approach for each patient. After detailed consultation and diagnostics, they identify the root causes of the body’s “malfunction” and eliminate them. We help patients restore their hormonal profile, slow the aging process, replenish the body’s valuable resources, and improve quality of life.
Prevention
To prevent hormonal imbalances, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle:
sleep at least 8 hours per day,
take walks in the fresh air,
physical activity: 1-hour training sessions 3 times per week,
a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates,
consume sufficient fluids—about 40 ml per kilogram of body weight per day (plain water),
eliminate harmful habits: smoking and excessive consumption of coffee and alcohol.
All of this does not replace regular preventive examinations. If alarming signs are detected, a specialist should be consulted immediately. Make an appointment with a physician at Expert Clinics by phone or by leaving your contact details on the website.
The Role of Hormones in a Woman’s Body
Hormones are highly important substances that safeguard our health and are responsible for many processes:
coordinate the work of internal organs,
regulate bodily activity,
maintain homeostasis—the constancy of the internal environment (blood pressure, temperature, acid–base balance, etc.).
Brief Guide to the Female Endocrine System
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Produced by the pituitary gland. They help the oocyte mature and be released into the fallopian tube. They influence secondary sex characteristics: skin structure and density, muscle mass formation, and hair growth.
Prolactin. Produced by the anterior pituitary. Initiates and maintains lactation. Excess prolactin may indicate diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes mellitus, or hepatic failure.
Oxytocin. Crucial for childbirth (facilitates cervical contractions) and breastfeeding (promotes milk let-down).
Estrogens (primarily estradiol). Necessary for ovulation, conception, and normal pregnancy. They form “estrogen protection”: preserve the beauty of skin, hair, and nails; influence serotonin production; protect blood vessels from atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction; and stimulate growth and strengthening of bone tissue.
Progesterone. Prepares the uterus for implantation of the fertilized ovum. Essential for carrying a pregnancy. Progesterone deficiency may result in miscarriage.
Androgens. “Male” sex hormones that are also produced in small amounts in women. Responsible for secondary sex characteristics. If excessive, they can cause conception problems; in women, hair begins to grow in a male pattern.
Thyroid hormones: TSH, T3, and T4. Stimulate tissue growth and development; critical for the reproductive, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. Deficiency or excess can cause conception difficulties.
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). A marker of ovarian reserve—the reproductive potential of a woman.
What Is a Hormonal “Failure”?
Hormones control physiological processes, moving through the bloodstream between tissues and organs. They are produced by the endocrine glands. Two brain structures regulate this process—the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. The former monitors hormone levels and gives “commands” to the latter. The pituitary produces substances that influence the activity of other endocrine glands.
The totality of all hormones is called the hormonal profile. It changes under the influence of internal and external factors: metabolism, general condition, age, neurogenic stress, etc. In women, the hormonal milieu is “tied” to the menstrual cycle and varies by phase: oocyte maturation, ovulation, menstruation. It also changes with the onset of pregnancy and at menopause.
A disturbance in the production of any hormone is called a hormonal imbalance. In common parlance, this often refers to menstrual irregularities. In reality, dysfunction of the reproductive system and an irregular menstrual cycle are consequences of hormonal imbalance.
Causes of Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal changes may be physiological. They occur in adolescents during puberty, in pregnant and breastfeeding women, and with the onset of menopause. In each of these periods, the female body undergoes restructuring with internal and external changes.
During sexual maturation, menstruation begins and external signs appear: body hair growth and breast development. As a woman approaches the climacteric stage, the ovarian reserve (oocyte supply) is exhausted; synthesis of sex hormones first declines and then ceases. Even the skin changes—becoming dry and flaccid.
Hormonal balance is often disrupted by stress. Cortisol levels rise sharply, causing dysfunction across different bodily systems.
Other factors that cause hormonal imbalance include:
disorders of the endocrine glands,
decreased immunity,
inflammatory processes,
infections, viral diseases, STIs,
use of antidepressants,
discontinuation of oral contraceptives,
gastrointestinal diseases,
diabetes mellitus,
stroke, encephalitis, traumatic brain injury,
high physical and emotional loads,
chronic overexertion,
hormone therapy,
oncologic diseases,
genitourinary problems,
intoxication,
genetic predisposition.
Main Signs of Hormonal Imbalance
Peak hormone concentrations in the female body occur between ages 30 and 45. For various reasons, synthesis of one or more hormones may be disrupted, causing unpleasant sensations and bodily changes.
Chronic fatigue. Persistent sleepiness may be caused by excess progesterone. Exhaustion is observed with excessive TSH secretion.
Menstrual irregularities. Normally, the menstrual interval ranges from 21 to 35 days and may vary by a couple of days. If the discrepancy exceeds a week, the cycle is considered irregular. In women over 40, this may indicate impending menopause. In other cases, it is a reason to evaluate the reproductive system; polycystic ovary syndrome may present this way.
Sleep disturbances. Sleep becomes shallow, with frequent nocturnal awakenings; insomnia appears.
Changes in the breasts. With estrogen deficiency they become less dense; with excess, they become engorged. With estrogen dominance (relative predominance of estrogens over progesterone), dense structures and cysts appear in the breasts.
Digestive disturbances—constipation, diarrhea. Occur with both deficiency and excess of thyroid hormones; estrogen dominance can also cause such problems.
Hair loss. May reflect disrupted production of thyroid hormones, prolactin, estradiol, or progesterone. The hormone dihydrotestosterone can also cause hair loss.
Weight gain. When testosterone and thyroid hormones decrease while insulin and cortisol are excessive, metabolism slows. Cravings for flour-based and sweet foods appear. Adipose mass begins to accumulate, especially in the abdomen. Weight loss may also occur due to hormonal disorders.
Headaches, migraine. May also occur during menstruation due to imbalance between estrogens and progesterone.
Vaginal dryness, discomfort and pain during intercourse. Caused by estrogen deficiency.
Purulent and acneiform eruptions on the face, back, chest. Due to pore blockage from active sebaceous secretion (excess androgens).
Memory and concentration disorders, distractibility indicate hormonal imbalance, particularly thyroid dysfunction.
Inability to conceive. Conception problems often arise with progesterone deficiency, considered the “hormone of motherhood.”
If these symptoms are detected, it makes sense to seek consultation with an endocrinologist or gynecologist. It is important to determine which hormones are deficient or, conversely, excessive. For example, with high estrogen concentrations women may experience decreased libido, uncontrolled weight gain, or chronic fatigue.
Hormonal Imbalance in Perimenopause and Menopause
As menopause approaches, endocrine gland activity becomes less robust. The following symptoms appear:
hot flashes,
irritability or apathy,
problems with concentration and memory,
headaches,
arterial hypertension,
increased appetite,
insomnia,
skin becomes less firm and elastic.
Pregnancy and Hormones
During pregnancy, “global” changes occur in a woman’s body. The following hormones begin to be produced actively:
hCG. Its appearance in blood indicates pregnancy. Every two days the hCG concentration doubles and reaches a maximum by weeks 8–10. In the second half of gestation it remains at a plateau. Tracking hCG dynamics helps assess whether the pregnancy is progressing normally. Under its influence, the corpus luteum in the ovaries does not regress and produces progesterone, and the next menstruation is blocked.
Estrogen. Secreted in amounts 30 times higher than usual. Responsible for normal pregnancy and fetal development; causes enlargement of the mammary glands.
Progesterone is normally produced throughout gestation. It is necessary to protect the fetus from maternal rejection and relaxes uterine musculature.
With hormonal disorders in the expectant mother, there is pathology of follicular maturation, changes in endometrial thickness, and possible development of uterine fibroids. During pregnancy, deficiency of iodine and iron—necessary for normal thyroid function—may occur.
Consequences of Disorders of the Hormonal System
In the absence of treatment, serious complications may arise:
infertility,
benign and malignant neoplasms, e.g., endometrial polyps or uterine fibroids,
cardiovascular diseases,
digestive disorders,
diabetes mellitus,
asthma,
atherosclerosis, stroke, myocardial infarction,
overweight/obesity,
depression and other mental disorders.
Diagnosis of Hormonal Imbalance
Laboratory diagnostics make it possible to determine the causes of hormonal imbalance. Before testing, it is recommended to abstain from alcohol and smoking and avoid significant physical exertion. For 8–12 hours, no food or sweet drinks should be consumed.
The following tests are required:
blood tests (biochemical, complete blood count),
hormonal assays: LH, FSH, prolactin, testosterone, estradiol (on cycle days 3–5), progesterone (on days 22–23), thyroid hormones,
urinalysis,
ultrasound of the thyroid, mammary glands, and pelvic organs,
colposcopy—examination of the cervix and vagina using a special microscope.
Treatment of Hormonal Imbalance in Moscow at Expert Clinics
After determining the causes of hormonal imbalance, therapy is prescribed. Treatment is provided by a gynecologist–endocrinologist.
A comprehensive approach includes prescribing vitamin–mineral complexes, dietary supplements, and hormone replacement therapy strictly according to indications. Therapeutic exercise and physiotherapy are also used to stabilize the hormonal profile. If necessary, the attending physician refers the patient to subspecialists.
At Expert Clinics, principles of anti-aging (anti-age) medicine are applied, which is our main advantage. Based on many years of scientific research, we have compiled complete and unique information on the causes of early aging and hormonal disorders at a young age.
Our specialists use an individualized approach for each patient. After detailed consultation and diagnostics, they identify the root causes of the body’s “malfunction” and eliminate them. We help patients restore their hormonal profile, slow the aging process, replenish the body’s valuable resources, and improve quality of life.
Prevention
To prevent hormonal imbalances, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle:
sleep at least 8 hours per day,
take walks in the fresh air,
physical activity: 1-hour training sessions 3 times per week,
a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates,
consume sufficient fluids—about 40 ml per kilogram of body weight per day (plain water),
eliminate harmful habits: smoking and excessive consumption of coffee and alcohol.
All of this does not replace regular preventive examinations. If alarming signs are detected, a specialist should be consulted immediately. Make an appointment with a physician at Expert Clinics by phone or by leaving your contact details on the website.