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8 Signs Your Hormones May Be Out of Balance – And What to Do Next

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund

Certain symptoms like abnormal hair growth, headaches, and skin changes, may indicate a hormonal imbalance. Recognizing these symptoms and talking to your doctor can be the first step in getting treatment and restoring balance to your body.

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Mar 17, 2023
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Certain symptoms like abnormal hair growth, headaches, and skin changes, may indicate a hormonal imbalance. Recognizing these symptoms and talking to your doctor can be the first step in getting treatment and restoring balance to your body.

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Certain symptoms like abnormal hair growth, headaches, and skin changes, may indicate a hormonal imbalance. Recognizing these symptoms and talking to your doctor can be the first step in getting treatment and restoring balance to your body.

Your hormone levels go through lots of changes. Whether in the span of a month or across different stages in your life, the hormonal balance in your body is often in flux.

Sometimes, however, this balance may be off. Too much or too little of any hormone can affect your overall health. Fertility and reproductive function can also be impacted.

>> RELATED: What is a Hormonal Imbalance?

What are hormones?

Hormones are often referred to as your body’s “chemical messengers.” They are chemical substances produced by endocrine glands, organs, and tissues around your body.

Hormones have a huge influence on your overall health. They travel through your bloodstream to tissues and organs, transmitting information that tells your body what to do.

Hormones play a role in almost every system in your body. They affect processes like:

  • Growth and development
  • Blood pressure regulation
  • Blood sugar regulation
  • Body temperature
  • Metabolism
  • Mood
  • Sex drive
  • Energy levels
  • Sleep

Hormones are also crucial to fertility and reproduction. They help regulate ovulation and influence your ability to conceive and maintain pregnancy. Fertility hormones include:

  • Estrogen, which is crucial for ovarian function
  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates egg growth in the ovaries
  • Luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation
  • Progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining pregnancy

Signs of a hormonal imbalance

Your hormone levels fluctuate naturally. Levels of fertility hormones like estrogen and progesterone, for example, rise and fall depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle. Similarly, hormone levels fluctuate if you’re pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, or going through menopause.

Sometimes, however, your endocrine glands can produce too much or too little of a hormone (or hormones). When this happens, the overall balance can be thrown off, resulting in a hormonal imbalance.

Many things could cause a hormonal imbalance, including:

Even small changes in your hormone levels can significantly affect your overall health. Without treatment, hormonal imbalances can cause several conditions, such as:

  • Type 1 and type 2 diabetes
  • Thyroid disease, including hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone levels)
  • Infertility
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, you may be suffering from a hormonal imbalance.

Abnormal periods

Problems with your period may be a sign of a hormonal imbalance. Abnormal periods can indicate imbalances caused by hormones like estrogen, prolactin, or the hormones produced by your thyroid.

Your period may be considered abnormal if:

  • Your flow is very heavy
  • Your menstrual cycle is irregular (in general, this is defined as having a cycle that is less than 24 days or more than 38 days, or it varies by more than 20 days from month to month)
  • You have painful periods
  • You have missed periods, or your period has stopped altogether, but you aren’t pregnant
  • You experience bleeding outside of your period

>> RELATED: Demystifying Menstruation: What Is Your Period Trying to Tell You?

Hirsutism

Hirsutism is excessive hair growth on places such as the face, chin, neck, chest, stomach, lower back, butt, or thighs. Body hair stemming from this condition is thick and dark, so if you have lighter or finer hair on parts of your body, it’s probably not a sign of hirsutism.

Hirsutism is linked to androgen hormones and can occur if your body overproduces these hormones or becomes more sensitive to them. Hirsutism can also be caused by PCOS, a condition that is also associated with hormonal imbalances.

Acne

Hormonal acne can be pretty common around the time of your period. No matter your age, you may develop acne in the week before your period, as your hormone levels fluctuate. In these cases, the skin usually clears up soon after.

In some cases, however, acne can also be a sign of an underlying hormonal imbalance. It can also be a symptom of PCOS, as higher-than-normal levels of hormones like androgen can make skin oilier and cause breakouts.

When acne often occurs in combination with other symptoms, such as abnormal periods and excessive hair growth (hirsutism), you may want to talk with your doctor about testing for a hormonal imbalance.

Hair loss

Hair loss on your head can occur at stages of your life when your hormones fluctuate dramatically, such as during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause.

Hair loss can also be indicative of a hormonal imbalance. One of the most common causes is an imbalance in the hormones your thyroid produces: if these hormone levels are too low or too high, it can lead to hair loss.

Hair loss can also be a symptom of PCOS, which can cause a variety of imbalances in your hormones.

Vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness can cause irritation, burning, and pain during sex. It can also be related to vaginal atrophy, which most commonly occurs during menopause.

If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, lower-than-normal estrogen levels are often the source of the problem. Estrogen levels can drop after childbirth, while breastfeeding, during cancer treatment, or during menopause. Estrogen levels can also be low due to hormonal birth control.

Pain during sex

If you experience pain during sex, it may also be a sign of a hormonal imbalance. Pain during sex can be caused by vaginal dryness or vaginal atrophy. Both of these conditions may be related to low estrogen levels.

Headaches

Fluctuating hormone levels can be a source of chronic headaches and migraines. More specifically, falling estrogen levels can trigger these symptoms, as estrogen controls chemicals in the brain that affect pain sensation.

People who experience chronic headaches or migraine related to hormonal imbalances may experience the symptoms:

  • Right before their period
  • During pregnancy
  • During menopause
  • While taking hormonal birth control
  • While undergoing hormone replacement therapy

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation refers to darker patches of skin around your body. These patches are often the result of increased melanin. Melanin is regulated, in part, by hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate at different stages, including during your menstrual cycle and during pregnancy. Hyperpigmentation can occur when changes in hormone levels increase melanin synthesis and may be a sign that your hormonal balance is off.

What to do if you think you have a hormonal imbalance

Experiencing one or a combination of symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have a hormonal imbalance. Nevertheless, you may want to consider checking with a doctor to see if your symptoms are indicative of something happening in your body.

At-home fertility testing kits like Oova can give you quantitative hormone level readings. If you are using an at-home testing kit and notice patterns that seem off, along with symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor, too.

>> RELATED: What do my Oova results mean? Common hormone patterns

Talking to your doctor

If you are looking for support or treatment for a suspected imbalance, you can start with your primary healthcare provider. As a general practitioner, this type of doctor can diagnose hormonal imbalances and related conditions, and can help you manage them.

At your initial visits, be sure to describe all of the symptoms you’ve been having and their timelines. The course of action that your doctor recommends will depend on the particulars of your experience.

Your doctor will likely run blood tests, as most hormones can be detected in the blood. They may also perform a pelvic exam or ultrasound, or take x-rays and MRIs.

Your doctor may refer you to an endocrinologist. Endocrinologists are healthcare providers specialized in endocrinology, or the study of hormone conditions. If you’re trying to conceive, you may also be referred to a reproductive endocrinologist (REI), OB/GYN physicians specializing in endocrinology as it relates to fertility.

Treating hormone imbalances

Depending on your specific case, many treatment options are available to address a hormonal imbalance. Some are medical, such as hormone therapy or hormonal birth control. Others are non-medical: changes to your diet, exercise habits, or lifestyle may also be able to influence symptoms and bring balance to your hormone levels.

The bottom line

It’s important to listen to what your body is telling you. After all, you know your body better than anyone—you know what feels right, and what feels off. If these symptoms sound familiar to you, consider talking to your doctor about what’s been happening. Getting to the bottom of things and establishing a plan of action is key to helping treat hormonal imbalances.

About the author

perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
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.