What Are Female Sex Hormones, and How Do They Affect Health?

Question

I recently started learning about female sex hormones, and I realized how important they are for overall health beyond just reproduction. From what I understand, the main female sex hormones are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, but how do they each function in the body?

I know that estrogen plays a big role in regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, and keeping skin healthy, but how does it change throughout life, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause? Also, can low estrogen levels cause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, or weight gain?

I read that progesterone is important for pregnancy and menstrual cycle regulation. What happens if progesterone levels are too low? Can it lead to irregular periods, infertility, or miscarriage risk?

I was also surprised to learn that women produce testosterone too. What role does testosterone play in female health, and how does it affect muscle strength, libido, and mood?

Are there natural ways to balance female sex hormones? Does Ayurveda recommend any herbs, dietary changes, or lifestyle practices to support hormonal health? I’ve read about Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and Maca root—do these actually help regulate hormone levels?

If anyone has experienced hormonal imbalances, what symptoms did you notice, and what helped restore balance?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Female sex hormones—estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—play key roles beyond reproduction, impacting everything from bone health to mood. Estrogen is vital for regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, and promoting healthy skin. It fluctuates throughout life, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. During menopause, estrogen levels drop, which can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain. Progesterone is crucial for preparing the uterus for pregnancy and regulating the menstrual cycle. Low levels can cause irregular periods, increase the risk of infertility, and may lead to miscarriage. Although commonly associated with males, testosterone is also important for females, influencing muscle strength, libido, and mood.

To support hormonal health, Ayurveda suggests herbs like Shatavari, Ashwagandha, and Maca root. These are believed to help balance hormones by reducing stress, supporting the adrenal glands, and promoting overall vitality. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress are also key practices for maintaining hormonal equilibrium. If you’ve experienced hormonal imbalances, symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, or changes in menstrual cycles might prompt a visit to a healthcare provider for testing and advice on lifestyle or herbal remedies.

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