Our hormones play an essential role in our body. They are chemical messengers that deliver vital information to the different organ systems. Hormone imbalance can occur for a variety of reasons. Once it occurs, there can be many negative side effects until the balance is restored. While some of the symptoms are the same for both men and women, there are also some that are unique to each sex.
Hormone Imbalance in Women
Hormonal imbalance is actually considered normal during many developmental phases of a woman’s life. Menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause all cause it to occur. Progesterone and estrogen are the two hormones that seem to impact women the most. When they are not balanced, women often experience:
- Vaginal dryness
- Vaginal atrophy
- Night sweats
- Hot flashes
- Clitoral enlargement
- Breast tenderness
- Breast changes
- Heavy periods
- Irregular periods
- Feeling foggy or confused
- Headaches
For women, there are medical conditions that can either trigger a hormonal imbalance or just simply make it worse. They include ovarian cancer, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), and early menopause. Additionally, certain forms of birth control can make it harder for the female body to maintain hormonal balance.
Hormone Imbalance in Men
Men can also experience unique symptoms of hormonal imbalance. For them, testosterone is usually the culprit. Effects of an imbalance that are unique to men include:
- Low sperm count
- Low sex drive
- Increased breast tissue size
- Loss of body hair
- Loss of body mass
- Erectile dysfunction
Ways That a Hormone Imbalance Can Affect Everyone
If the above problems weren’t enough, there are more ways that a hormone imbalance can impact both men and women. Growth hormones, insulin, and adrenaline are all examples of other vital hormones that can become out of whack. Body systems that are impacted include:
- Stress levels
- Reproduction
- Sexual function
- Metabolism
- Heart rate
- Body temperature
- Sleep cycles
- Overall mood
If you would like to learn more about the effects of hormonal imbalance and what can be done about it, we invite you to reach out and make an appointment with Quench Wellness! At our convenient location in Chicago, our team of dedicated professionals will be ready and eager to explain your options in full, answer any questions you may have, and help you get back to feeling like yourself. Contact us today to set up your consultation!
