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6 Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms (and How to Manage Them)

Zoe Kaplan
Zoe Kaplan

Hormonal imbalance symptoms range from unexplained weight changes to persistent fatigue. Here’s what to look out for and how to find relief.

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Feb 24, 2025
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Hormonal imbalance symptoms range from unexplained weight changes to persistent fatigue. Here’s what to look out for and how to find relief.

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Hormonal imbalance symptoms range from unexplained weight changes to persistent fatigue. Here’s what to look out for and how to find relief.

If you’ve ever experienced unexplained weight changes, persistent fatigue, or mood swings that seem to come out of nowhere, you might be dealing with hormonal imbalance symptoms. Hormonal imbalances are a common health issue that affect up to 80% of people—yet it can be difficult to recognize the signs or know when to seek health. 

In this guide, we’ll review everything you need to know about hormonal imbalance symptoms, including what they are, how they manifest, and what you can do to find relief.

What is a hormonal imbalance?

Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers, orchestrating everything from metabolism and growth to mood and reproduction. When hormones fall out of balance—either you have too much or too little of a certain hormone—it can affect virtually every system in your body.

That’s why hormonal imbalances can come in many forms. Some common examples include:

  • Thyroid disorders: when your thyroid produces too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism)
  • Estrogen or progesterone imbalances: which can affect menstrual cycles, fertility, and mood
  • Cortisol imbalances: often associated with chronic stress and adrenal issues

Some hormonal imbalances causes include underlying medical conditions, like polycystic ovarian syndrome or diabetes. Others causes include external factors like stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep.

And some hormonal imbalances are totally natural. Life transitions like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can involve significant hormonal shifts that can knock your hormones out of whack.

>>RELATED: When Does Menopause Start? Age, Symptoms, and Tests

Hormonal imbalance symptoms

Because hormones are so crucial to your body’s functions, it’s likely you’ll experience some symptoms when your hormones are imbalanced. Here are some of the most common symptoms to look out for.

1. Unexplained weight changes.

Have you noticed your weight fluctuating despite no major changes to your diet or exercise routine? Hormones like thyroid, insulin, and cortisol play crucial roles in metabolism and weight regulation. An imbalance might cause you to gain weight—particularly around your midsection—or lose weight unexpectedly.

2. Persistent fatigue

If you're getting enough sleep but still feel exhausted, hormones might be to blame. Thyroid imbalances often manifest as severe tiredness, while cortisol irregularities can leave you feeling wired but drained. This isn't your typical end-of-day tiredness—it's a deep fatigue that doesn't improve with rest.

3. Mood changes and irritability

Are you feeling unusually anxious, depressed, or irritable? Imbalances in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones influence your brain chemistry and emotional well-being. Many people describe feeling "not like themselves" when hormones are imbalanced—experiencing mood swings, brain fog, or difficulty concentrating.

4. Sleep disturbances

If you’re tossing and turning at night, hormonal imbalances may be disrupting your sleep patterns. Low progesterone might cause insomnia, while cortisol irregularities can wake you up in the early morning hours. Some people experience night sweats or hot flashes, particularly during menopause or perimenopause.

5. Skin and hair changes

Your skin and hair are surprisingly responsive to hormonal shifts. You may notice: 

  • Acne breakouts
  • Dry, thinning hair or unexpected hair loss
  • Excessive hair growth
  • Skin tags or darkened patches of skin

6. Low libido and sexual function changes

Hormones are key players in sexual health for both men and women. When they're out of balance, you might notice low libido, including decreased interest in sex or intimacy and difficulty becoming aroused.

Women specifically may experience painful intercourse or vaginal dryness, while men may experience erectile dysfunction or performance issues. 

These changes can be frustrating and may affect relationships, but they're often signals of an underlying hormonal issue that can be addressed with proper care.

How to know if you have a hormonal imbalance

While hormonal imbalance symptoms can provide important clues as to whether or not you have a hormonal imbalance, the only way to confirm is through proper testing. 

If you suspect your hormones may be imbalanced, first consider keeping a log of when symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers can help you and a healthcare provider figure out what’s at the source.

Depending on your symptoms, your provider might recommend: 

  • Blood tests to check thyroid, cortisol, or reproductive hormone levels
  • Saliva testing for certain hormones
  • Ultrasound or imaging studies for conditions like PCOS

If you’re looking for a proactive approach—and hormone testing you can do from the comfort of your own home—Oova’s hormone test kit offers a way to track your specific hormonal patterns and get insights without invasive blood work. Oova measures your LH, progesterone, and estrogen through at-home urine tests, and you can share your results directly with your provider.

How to manage hormonal imbalance symptoms

The good news is that most hormonal imbalances and their symptoms can be addressed. Your treatment approach will depend on the specific imbalance and its cause.

Lifestyle adjustments

Simple changes to your everyday lifestyle can have powerful effects on your hormonal health, including:

  • Balanced nutrition: focus on whole foods, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables
  • Regular exercise: aim for at least 30 minutes of movement most days
  • Stress management: practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help regulate stress hormones
  • Consistent sleep: prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night

Medication and supplements

For some imbalances, medical intervention may be necessary. Medication options may include hormone replacement therapy, thyroid medications, birth control pills, or targeted supplements. 

Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to figure out whether medication or supplements are right for you, and to track the efficacy of a medical intervention.

Addressing the root cause

Working with your healthcare provider to identify and treat underlying conditions that may cause hormonal imbalances is essential. This might involve:

  • Managing autoimmune conditions
  • Treating insulin resistance
  • Addressing adrenal dysfunction
  • Supporting thyroid health
  • Managing stress-related issues

Again, the root cause and how you address it will depend on what kind of hormonal imbalance you have; working directly with a provider can help you come up with the right treatment plan for you.

Hormonal imbalance symptoms: the bottom line

Hormonal imbalances are highly common but often overlooked causes of many chronic symptoms. Hormonal imbalance symptoms include everything from unexplained weight changes to sleep problems and changes in skin or hair.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, know that you're not alone and that help is available. By tracking your symptoms and working with healthcare providers to find the right treatment for you, you're not just relieving symptoms—you're supporting your entire system in finding its natural harmony.

About the author

Zoe Kaplan
Zoe Kaplan is a writer and content strategist passionate about creating content that helps people navigate the world a little more easily. Zoe has worked across verticals, from women's career development to reproductive health. You can check out more of her work at zoeakaplan.com.

Sources

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https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

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