There are three main types of female hormones: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

These hormones play important roles in regulating a woman’s reproductive cycle, and their levels can fluctuate throughout a woman’s lifetime, especially in the perimenopause and menopausal time frames.

Keep reading to learn more about the different types of female hormones and how they affect the body.

Progesterone

Progesterone is a hormone found in both men and women, but it is particularly important for women as it regulates the menstrual cycle and menopause.

It is also involved in other biological processes such as sleep regulation, maintaining normal moods and aiding fertility.

Additionally, progesterone plays an integral role in managing certain conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and menopausal symptoms.

As menopause begins, the body produces lower levels of progesterone which can lead to increased symptoms including interrupted sleep patterns and intense mood swings.

Therefore, monitoring levels of progesterone throughout menopause may provide medical insights that aid treatment plans.

Estrogen

Estrogen is an important hormone found in both men and women. Women approaching or in menopause may experience vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, joint pain, hot flashes, and night sweats due to fluctuations or decreases of estrogen levels during this time.

As these symptoms can be disruptive and uncomfortable, there are treatment options that can help bring relief.

It is recommended to speak with a doctor if estrogen levels appear to be out of balance as certain lifestyle changes and medications like bioidentical hormones may be beneficial.

Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone naturally found in both men and women. It plays an important role in women’s libido, muscle mass, and overall growth and development.

Reduced levels of testosterone can cause women to experience muscle weakness, weight gain, and a lack of sex drive. While women tend to have lower levels than men, female testosterone levels still need to be balanced for optimal health.

Through lifestyle changes such as exercise and proper nutrition, most women can maintain healthy testosterone levels which can lead to improved physical health and sexual desire. 

If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, medications like bioidentical hormones may be prescribed by your doctor.

FSH and LH

FSH and LH play a vital role in menstrual cycles. Follicle-stimulating hormones and luteinizing hormones are secreted by the pituitary gland during the menstrual cycle in order to stimulate egg production in ovaries.

They are also responsible for hormone secretion that is needed during menopause and perimenopause – the transitional period before menopause.

In particular, a decrease in active FSH and LH may signal the beginning of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, insomnia, irritability and mood swings.

Hence, these two hormones play an essential role throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle until she reaches perimenopause and menopause.

Hormonal imbalances can cause a lot of different symptoms in both men and women. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms we listed, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

They can do some simple blood tests to see if your hormones are out of balance and prescribe medication or give you lifestyle recommendations to help get them back on track.

Don’t suffer in silence, there is help available!

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