text: Hormonal imbalance occurs when the body produces hormones in abnormal or minute quantities. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system that regulate body processes or functions. Hormones regulate functions like mood, body temperature, appetite, heart rate, sleep, growth, etc... Hormonal levels change in women after the age of 30 years and normally fluctuate before or during menstruation, during pregnancy, or menopause. Hormonal imbalances are the leading causes of infertility in women. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), anovulation (absence of ovulation), delayed or missed periods are one of the major results of hormone imbalance in women.
  Symptoms and Signs Hormonal Imbalance
  Hormonal imbalance can affect personal comfort, general health, and performance at work, and sexual capability with a partner. Signs of imbalance in women are:
  - Missed or abnormal period
  - Painful or heavy period
  - Mood swings
  - Unexpected weight gain
  - Low libido
  - Insomnia and poor quality sleep
  - Vaginal dryness
  - Weak bones
  Causes of Hormonal Imbalance
  The condition occurs when the endocrine glands are not functioning well. Certain variables like lifestyle choices, environmental conditions, and some medical conditions are contributors to the causes of hormonal imbalance in women. For purpose of specificity, causes include but are not limited to:
  - Type 1 and 2 diabetes
  - Infection on the endocrine gland
  - Unbalanced and unhealthy diet
  - Overweight or obesity
  - Overactive or underactive thyroid
  - Birth control medications
  - Low levels of iodine in the body
  - Ovarian cancer
  Diagnosis for Hormonal Imbalance
  Hormonal imbalance can be detected through blood, urinalysis, or radiology. It is important to note that no one test can detect a hormonal imbalance in a female. A consultation with a doctor will have to occur first and then some examinations will be conducted. The following may be recommended:
  - Blood tests like; female hormonal profile, thyroid function test, and urinalysis.
  - Pelvic exams.
  Treatment of Hormonal Imbalance
  After proper consultation and examination, a treatment plan is formulated while considering the specific cause and is tailored for each woman. A healthy change in lifestyle choice is a form of treatment. For better treatment results, a combination of medical treatment and positive lifestyle changes are required. Medical treatments include:
  - Hormone or birth control medication
  - Hormonal replacement medication
  - Vaginal estrogen
  Positive lifestyle habits include:
  - Eating a healthy and balanced diet
  - Stress reduction
  - Regular exercise (Yoga is highly recommended)
  - Eating fruits and vegetables not treated with pesticides
  - Avoiding the heavy use of chemicals for dishwashing
  - Weight reduction
  As established earlier, the treatment for female hormonal imbalance is not straightforward. It should involve a doctor or specialist in the treatment.
  For more information on hormonal health and a consultation with our doctor, call or send WhatsApp message on 08081111121.
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