Everything To Know About Hormonal Imbalances In Women: Causes, Consequences, Solution

Hormonal imbalances can affect energy levels and intimacy. But, with a correct combination of supplements, changes in lifestyle and the right nutrition, a healthy balance can be found. Read on to know more.

Hormonal imbalances in women: Around the world, many women suffer from hormonal imbalances that affect mental and physical well-being, and the overall quality of life. There is always a mix of factors responsible for hormonal imbalances. For instance, chronic stress can raise the levels of the stress hormone 'cortisol', which can throw off estrogen and progesterone -- the key reproductive hormones. In turn, it may lead to mood swings, a drop in libido, and sporadic periods in women. For those dealing with PCOS, insulin resistance is a pertinent issue that can cause the body to produce higher levels of testosterone, resulting in acne, weight gain, fertility struggles, etc. According to Dr Deepak K Jumani, senior sexual health physician and counsellor, and Vaibhav Garg, a clinical nutritionist and founder of In You, diet is another considerable factor of hormonal imbalance in women. When your diet lacks essential nutrients like zinc, magnesium and omega-3s, and you consume more processed foods and sugar instead; it can lead to inflammation in the body that can make hormonal issues worse.

"...not to forget, environmental toxins," the experts warn, adding that endocrine disruptors present in cosmetics and plastics can sneak into the body and mess up normal hormonal functioning. "As it is, menopause automatically lowers both testosterone and estrogen levels, causing discomfort during intercourse, vaginal dryness, and reduced libido."

Now that we know of the factors that cause hormonal imbalances in a female body, let us look at some specific aspects of health. Read on.

Hormonal Imbalance And Sexual Health

According to the experts, a woman's sex drive is influenced by her hormones. Libido drops when there is a drop in testosterone and estrogen levels. Dryness and unease during intercourse become frequent when the estrogen levels dip, as it can affect the lubrication of the vagina. Mood swings, fatigue and anxiety also kick in when there is a drop in progesterone levels, thereby impacting intimacy.

Can Proper Nutrition And Supplements Help?

The health experts mention that besides staying active and regulating stress, nutrition also plays an important role in hormone health. With the right kind of food and targeted supplements, it is possible to promote hormonal balance.

Holistic Approach To Hormonal Balance

It has often been seen that treatments that are pharmaceutical in nature, do not address the underlying problem. Instead, they serve as 'quick fixes' for dealing with symptoms. Natural and holistic approaches, however, target root causes of imbalances, thus restoring the balance from within.

"An equilibrium in the body leads to better functioning of mood and metabolism, reproductive system, and sexual wellness. For women to experience long-lasting benefits that go beyond addressing just symptoms, they need to adopt an all-encompassing approach that fixes nutritional inadequacies and maintains hormonal health. When the body is given what it requires, regular period cycles, higher levels of energy, better libido and overall well-being are ensured," the experts conclude.