Hormones are chemical substances secreted and synthesized by the endocrine organs inside the body. Hormones can be broadly divided into peptide hormones and steroid hormones according to their constituents. As they are transported to various organs in the body through body fluids and blood, they are responsible for exchanging information between organs and tissues, and controlling various physiological phenomena and behaviors. This action plays an essential role in maintaining the body’s growth and development, metabolism, and homeostasis. Female hormones, which are one of the hormones that play a variety of roles, are classified into estrogen, a follicle hormone, and progesterone, a progesterone. Estrogen is not only involved in menstruation and pregnancy, but also maintains the health of various organs and tissues such as the urinary system, uterus, breast, blood vessels, and bones. I am playing a role. When hormones work harmoniously, a healthy state is maintained, but even a small imbalance can cause various physical abnormalities, and when symptoms worsen, it can lead to the onset of various diseases. Therefore, it can be said that it is important to recognize these symptoms well, manage them continuously, and prevent the disease from progressing. Now, let’s take a look at the various physical abnormalities that occur when female hormonal imbalance occurs. Symptoms of female hormone imbalance
1. Irregular menstrual cycle
The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, and it repeats every 21 to 38 days depending on individual differences. It is normal for menstrual irregularities to appear 2 to 3 years after menarche because female hormones are not stabilized. In particular, since this irregular menstrual cycle is also related to the onset of uterine-related diseases, it is recommended to receive an appropriate diagnosis and test if symptoms persist.
2. Acne
Another typical symptom that can appear when the imbalance of female hormones continues is acne. Acne, which is limited to before or during menstruation, is a common case. However, if acne occurs regardless of the cycle and does not disappear for a long time once it occurs, it can be said that it is a symptom that occurs as the sebaceous glands become active due to the excessive secretion of androgens, the male hormone, due to hormonal imbalance symptoms.
3. Sleep Disorder
If you do not get enough sleep or the quality of your sleep is poor, you may suspect a hormonal imbalance. Progesterone secreted by the ovaries is known to affect sleep. When it is secreted normally, there is no big problem, but if the level of progesterone is lowered in an abnormal form, it can cause trouble falling asleep or continuing sleep, which can cause sleep disorders. In addition, low estrogen levels can also cause various symptoms such as cold sweats and hot flashes, which can significantly reduce the quality of sleep.
4. mood swings
The discomfort that appears 2 to 10 days before the onset of menstruation and the depression and irritability that appear during pregnancy and menopause are all due to rapid changes in female hormones. This is because estrogen affects various neurotransmitters secreted in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Serotonin, in particular, is a hormone that promotes positive emotions such as happiness and stability. If the normal secretion of serotonin is affected by the imbalance of estrogen, emotions cannot be controlled, and negative emotions are amplified, which can lead to depression.
5. Weight gain
Estrogen also affects the secretion of the hormone leptin, which regulates appetite and increases energy expenditure. When your hormones are well balanced, your metabolism works properly and you maintain a healthy weight. However, when there is an imbalance in the secretion of female hormones, the secretion of leptin is also affected, which can cause overeating and binge eating, and it can prevent the breakdown of body fat, resulting in weight gain.
6. Gastrointestinal disorders
Estrogen and progesterone also play a role in helping the ingested nutrients to be digested smoothly. When imbalance symptoms such as too much or too little secretion appear, digestive function will decrease and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating may occur.
Other symptoms
Imbalance of female hormones can lead to drowsiness during active daytime and chronic form of fatigue. In addition, estrogen is secreted from the brain and affects the secretion of neurotransmitters that cause various chemical reactions, so it can cause a decrease in concentration and memory, and is known to affect the occurrence of headaches.
