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Hormones
Zoe Kaplan
Hormonal imbalances can be caused by anything from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
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Feb 17, 2025
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Hormonal imbalances can be caused by anything from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
It’s no secret hormones play a major role in your body. From growth and metabolism to mood and reproduction, hormones are responsible for a variety of functions—and when they get unbalanced, these functions can be disrupted.
But what exactly causes a hormonal imbalance? How can you tell if you have one, and what’s at the source of it? In this guide, we’ll go over the top causes of hormonal imbalances, including symptoms and how to get relief.
What is a hormonal imbalance?
A hormonal imbalance occurs when your body produces too much or too little of one or more hormones.
While some fluctuations in your hormones are normal, like when your luteinizing hormone rises during your menstrual cycle, a hormone imbalance is classified as a fluctuation or change that’s irregular or disrupts your natural hormone functions.
These imbalances can be temporary or chronic, and can affect people of all ages, genders, life circumstances, and more.
What causes hormonal imbalances?
Hormonal imbalances can stem from a variety of factors, from natural life shifts to underlying medical conditions.
Natural life stages
Puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and perimenopause are all marked by significant hormonal shifts. While these are natural transitions, they can sometimes lead to temporary imbalances as the body adjusts.
Lifestyle factors
Our lifestyle can significantly impact our hormonal health, including:
- Stress: When you experience stress, the hypothalamus triggers the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH then signals the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. While cortisol is essential for short-term stress response, chronic stress and persistently elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the balance of other hormones, including sex hormones and thyroid hormones.
- Diet: A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body's cells become less responsive to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, which can contribute to type 2 diabetes, weight gain, and other health issues.
- Lack of sleep: ISleep is crucial for hormone regulation. Growth hormone, which is essential for cell regeneration, muscle growth, and metabolism, is primarily released during deep sleep. Sleep deprivation can also disrupt the production of cortisol, melatonin (a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles), and reproductive hormones.
- Obesity: Excess body weight can affect hormone production and metabolism. Fat tissue, especially visceral fat, acts as an endocrine organ, producing hormones and inflammatory molecules that can disrupt hormone signaling and contribute to insulin resistance. Obesity is associated with increased risk of several hormonal imbalances, including PCOS, type 2 diabetes, and thyroid disorders.
Underlying medical conditions
Certain medication conditions can directly impact hormone production, including:
- Thyroid disorders: The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones (T4 and T3), which regulate metabolism, body temperature, and heart rate. Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland produces too many thyroid hormones.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): This common hormonal disorder in women can cause irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and elevated levels of androgens (male hormones).
- Diabetes: Both types of diabetes can lead to hormonal imbalances, including elevated blood sugar levels and impaired insulin signaling.Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin.
- Adrenal insufficiency: Adrenal insufficiency occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone essential for stress response, blood sugar regulation, and immune function.
- Tumors: Tumors on endocrine glands, such as the pituitary, thyroid, or adrenal glands, can disrupt hormone production. These tumors can either overproduce hormones or interfere with the gland's normal function.
Medications
Certain medications, including hormone therapies and some antidepressants, can affect hormone levels. That’s because some medications interfere with the glands that produce hormones, either increasing or decreasing their output. For example, certain medications used to treat thyroid conditions can sometimes cause the thyroid to produce too much or too little hormone.
Common medications that can affect hormone levels include hormonal birth control, steroids, antidepressants, and thyroid medications.
It's important to note that not everyone who takes these medications will experience hormonal imbalances. However, if you are concerned about the potential effects of a medication on your hormones, it is important to talk to your doctor.
Signs of a hormonal imbalance
How do you know if you have a hormonal imbalance in the first place? While the symptoms can vary widely depending on which hormones are affected, common signs of a hormonal imbalance include:
- Weight gain or loss
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite
- Skin problems
- Changes in libido
- Irregular periods
- Fertility problems
- Hair loss or thinning
Again, hormonal imbalances can manifest as a wide range of symptoms depending on the type of imbalance. For example, thyroid imbalances can manifest as weight changes, fatigue, and mood swings, while imbalances in sex hormones can lead to changes in libido, menstrual irregularities, and fertility issues.
How to treat a hormonal imbalance
Treating a hormonal imbalance depends on the underlying cause and the specific hormones involved. For example, if your hormonal imbalance is caused by PCOS, you may work to manage PCOS to help manage the imbalance; if your hormonal imbalance is caused by lifestyle factors, you may institute lifestyle changes.
Treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy diet, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and regular exercise can often help restore hormonal balance.
- Medications: Hormone replacement therapy, medication for specific conditions like thyroid disorders or PCOS, or other medications may be prescribed.
- Therapy: In some cases, therapy may be helpful to manage mood changes or other emotional symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.
It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Causes of hormonal imbalance: the bottom line
Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of one or more hormones. These imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, from lifestyle factors like diet and stress to medical conditions like PCOS and thyroid disorders. If you’re experiencing hormonal imbalance symptoms, it can be helpful to see a healthcare professional to figure out the underlying cause.
Many people experience hormonal imbalances at some point in their lives. By understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and seeking professional help, you can take control of your hormonal health and improve your overall well-being.
About the author
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
- Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Obesity and hormones.
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Thyroid Disorders in Women.
- Knezevic, E., Nenic, K., Milanovic, V., & Knezevic, N. N. (2023). The Role of Cortisol in Chronic Stress, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Psychological Disorders.
- Volk, K. M., Pogrebna, V. V., Roberts, J. A., Zachry, J. E., Blythe, S. N., & Toporikova, N. (2017). High-Fat, High-Sugar Diet Disrupts the Preovulatory Hormone Surge and Induces Cystic Ovaries in Cycling Female Rats.
- Zakariah-Akoto, S., Abuaku, B., Egbi, G., Klu, B. E. K., Kyei-Baafour, E., Ofori, M. F., Ahorlu, C. S., & Yeboah-Manu, D. (2024). Knowledge, perceptions, and management of symptoms of hormonal imbalance among adolescent girls in selected schools in Ghana: a qualitative exploratory study.
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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