Hormones coordinate energy, mood and metabolism. When they become disrupted, a hormonal imbalance (related to menopause, certain illnesses, or lifestyle) can cause problems in your body. Here is how to spot the signs and restore balance, with practical advice and support from your pharmacist.

Hormones: A few biology notions

Hormones are highly varied chemical substances that regulate a number of biological mechanisms. They are secreted by numerous glands, for example:

• the adrenal glands;
• the thyroid;
• the pituitary gland;
• the pancreas;
• the ovaries;
• the testicles.

They are then released into the bloodstream, and travel to target cells in different parts of the body where they exert their effects. Hormones modify the activity of target cells by triggering a sequence of reactions leading to specific, often complex effects, usually by speeding up or slowing down normal biological processes.

Perfect orchestration

Hormones are particularly powerful substances. Even at very low blood concentrations, they exert marked effects on target organs. When a hormone is secreted, its presence in the blood is generally brief (lasting from a few seconds to thirty minutes). The onset and duration of hormonal effects vary considerably—some hormones produce instant effects, others take hours or even days to take effect.

The concentrations of most hormones in the blood vary constantly. They must be precisely and individually regulated to meet the body's fluctuating needs. This requires perfect orchestration, as many hormones interact with each other and with other key substances in the body.

The hormone system, known as the endocrine system, is a kind of "conductor system" for the body's equilibrium.

How do you know if you have a hormonal imbalance?

The abnormal or excessive secretion of a hormone leads to hormonal imbalance (disruption or dysregulation). Since each hormone has its own specific effects, the consequences of a hormonal imbalance depend on which gland is affected, as well as the nature and intensity of the problem.

Certain periods of life, particularly puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, are conducive to hormonal imbalances. The body changes and must adapt to its new reality, and this affects the hormonal system. Hormonal imbalance can also be caused by aging or illness.

 

What are the risk factors and symptoms of hormonal imbalance?

Hormonal imbalance can occur at any age and in both men and women for a variety of reasons. This makes it difficult to identify specific risk factors. However, it is known that newborns, teenagers, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people over 50 are at greater risk.

Hormonal imbalances can manifest themselves through a wide range of symptoms, depending on the hormone involved, the nature of the problem, and its severity. Here are some examples of symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance:

• Fatigue;
• Weight loss or gain;
• Decreased libido;
• Hot flashes;
• Vaginal dryness;
• Erectile dysfunction;
• Constipation;
• Cold intolerance.

This list could go on and on, given the many possible scenarios. It is often the combination of several symptoms typical of the disorder that points the diagnosis toward some kind of hormonal imbalance.

Female contraception and hormonal imbalance

Hormonal contraception in women voluntarily adjusts estrogen and progestin levels. This hormonal change can sometimes be accompanied by symptoms, depending on individual sensitivity.

Symptoms of too little (or too much) progesterone

Progesterone balances the action of estrogen. Too little (or too much) progesterone can cause:

• Irregular menstrual cycles, spotting between periods, severe PMS (premenstrual syndrome);
• Irritability, anxiety, disturbed sleep, decreased libido;
• Tender breasts, headaches;
• Water retention and possible slight weight gain;
• Fatigue.

These symptoms alone do not indicate a hormonal disorder: your doctor may recommend specific tests.

Symptoms of too much estrogen

A relative excess of estrogen ("estrogen dominance") can manifest itself as:

• Bloating, nausea, sore breasts;
• Headaches, mood swings, fatigue;
• Heavy periods and pronounced cramps;
• Oily skin, acne;
• Water retention and weight gain.

Here again, other causes are possible. Individual rebalancing (dose adjustment, change of formulation, or non-hormonal method) and, if necessary, medical treatment may be considered.

Would you like to discontinue the birth control pill? Side effects following discontinuation can potentially disrupt your well-being. Here are some tips for managing the effects after discontinuation.

Prevention and solutions to restore hormonal balance

It is difficult to predict and prevent hormonal imbalance, unless it is part of the normal course of events. However, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help preserve your health and maintain hormonal balance. With this in mind, you can:

• eat a healthy, balanced diet;
• choose a smoke-free life;
• avoid abuse (of alcohol, among other things);
• exercise regularly;
• promote restful sleep;
• control your stress.

If you experience unusual or unexplained symptoms, consult a doctor. After a physical examination and analysis of the situation, you may be advised to undergo tests (blood tests or other) to make a diagnosis.

Only a health care professional can diagnose hormonal imbalance. If it turns out that your condition is due to a hormonal imbalance, your doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatments. Follow their instructions carefully.

If you need to take any medication, your pharmacist can tell you about its effects, how it works and how to use it, as well as any precautions you should take. Please feel free to consult our pharmacists if you have any questions or concerns about your medication.