Most women know their hormones can cause uncomfortable symptoms associated with their reproductive and gynecological health.
But hormones affect many bodily processes beyond reproduction and sexual function, and imbalances with these essential chemical messengers can occur in people of all ages.
Dr. Terry L. Franklin helps people identify and manage hormone imbalances at his private practice in Monterey, California. He encourages women and those assigned female at birth to familiarize themselves with hormone-related symptoms.
In this post, Dr. Franklin shares four subtle signs of a hormone imbalance that women often don’t suspect.
Did you know that sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone also regulate your gastrointestinal tract? As a result, hormonal imbalances often trigger digestive issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.
The rates of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are 2-3 times higher in women, likely due to estrogen. It’s also common for IBS symptoms to improve during menopause when hormones stop fluctuating as much.
Does your hair seem to be thinning? Or do you have hair growing in places where you don’t want it, like your chin or above your lip? They could be due to hormone imbalance.
Each hair on your body grows from its own follicle. This tiny structure sits in the top two layers of your skin and contains cells and connective tissues that surround the hair root. Think of it like a vase holding a flower.
On the surface, this seems simple and straightforward, but it’s far more complex. Your hormones control the three stages of the growth process, including:
Your hormones can derail this process, leading to hair loss or unwanted growth, depending on your imbalance.
Do you struggle to fall asleep? Do you have problems staying asleep? This can actually be due to hormone imbalances, and it can cause hormone imbalances.
Your body needs enough quality sleep to keep several hormones in check, including:
In an ideal world, adults should get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. If you’re consistently falling short, Dr. Franklin can get to the bottom of the problem.
Finally, one of the most obvious signs of a hormone imbalance could be staring back at you from the mirror.
Skin changes due to hormones often include:
Hormone imbalances can also trigger acne, even if you’re well past your teenage years.
Fortunately, Dr. Franklin can help you feel like yourself again. If you have symptoms — even if they seem subtle — he can determine if an imbalance is to blame.
Dr. Franklin can diagnose hormone imbalances by performing a physical exam and blood tests. Once he identifies the source of your symptoms, he can offer a personalized course of action, from lifestyle education and vitamin injections to hormone replacement therapy.
Could you have a hormone imbalance? Dr. Franklin can help get things back on track. Schedule a visit at his practice in Monterey, California, today.
