7 Signs Of Hormonal Imbalance and Expert-Backed Ways To Fix Them

Feeling lethargic, bloated, and sleep-deprived of late? Are you blaming it on the changing weather? Our recommendation is you go see a doctor ASAP because all of these symptoms are indicators of hormone imbalance. 

Secreted by your endocrine gland, your hormones are chemical messengers that run the show in your body. They circulate through your system and direct each organ to do their job. Naturally, everything goes on smoothly when they’re fine. But the moment there’s a shift in the balance, your system can go down crumbling. 

These hormonal fluctuations can manifest in many ways. Here are seven most common signs and solutions to fix them:

Irregular/ Painful Periods

“Irregular or painful periods can happen due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition in which fibroids or cysts in the ovaries hamper their natural function,” explains by Dr Uma Vaidyanathan, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh. “It can be caused due to sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy eating habits, and excessive insulin (the hormone responsible for the metabolism of protein, fat, and carbs),” she adds.  

Fix: The best way to combat PCOS-related hormonal issues is to have a healthy, active lifestyle. “Regular exercise and a balanced diet with adequate protein, fibre, and whole foods can help balance your hormones,” Dr Uma suggests. In the meantime, you can use Sirona’s Feminine Pain Relief Patches to deal with painful periods. They can give instant relief from period cramps. 

Low Libido & Vaginal Dryness

A lack of sex drive is commonly noticed in perimenopausal women and new mothers. “However, a low libido can also be a sign of low estrogen (female sex hormone) in women of any age,” warns Dr Uma. Vaginal dryness can be a product of low libido or happen due to a lack of thyroid and oestrogen.

Fix: Hormonal therapy and counselling can help you a great deal in this case. You can also use Sirona’s Moisturising Lube Tube to relieve vaginal dryness and enjoy painless penetrative sex. Made with natural ingredients like aloe vera, it can moisturise the vagina without meddling with its natural acidic environment. 

Poor Sleep & Fatigue

Excess oestrogen can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that is secreted by the body at night to induce sleep. This can lead to poor sleep quality. Now, fatigue can either be a result of a lack of thyroid or excess progesterone (female sex hormone) in the body. 

Fix: “Our body changes its behaviour and patterns in accordance with sunlight and sunset. This is known as the circadian rhythm. Letting the body tune back to it by sleeping on time, getting 8-9 hours of sleep, and reducing screen time can help you recover from sleep problems,” Dr Uma explains.

Stubborn Acne 

Acne can be a result of high androgen (male hormone) levels. It can also be caused due to increased insulin and cortisol (stress hormone). “These hormones boost oil production in the sebaceous glands of the skin and can lead to breakouts,” Dr Uma explains.

Fix: Apart from stress-busting exercises, ditching oily foods and skin products can help you combat acne. You can even use Sirona’s Anti-Acne Face Serum. It contains salicylic acid to control oil production and remove dead skin. The hyaluronic acid present in it can simultaneously hydrate the skin. 

Unexplained Weight Gain

If you gain weight despite following a healthy lifestyle and diet, chances are that you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroid). “Thyroid regulates the rate at which the body uses calories. A deficiency of this hormone can lead to weight gain,” Dr Uma explains. She adds that other conditions like PCOS can also be responsible for it.

Fix: A combination of a balanced diet, reduced screen time, proper sleep, and regular exercise can help keep your hormones and weight in check. 

Hirsutism & Hair Loss

Excessive facial and body hair growth and hair loss leading to bald patches are typical male characteristics. “These can be seen in women due to an increase in the male sex hormones–androgen and testosterone,” explains the doctor. 

Fix: While doctor-prescribed hormonal therapy can control these issues, Dr Uma suggests sticking to a healthy, active lifestyle for overall hormonal balance. 

Mood Swings

Serotonin is the mood-stabilising hormone. It can change rapidly due to the constant oestrogen-progesterone fluctuation during the menstrual cycle. 

Fix: “Exercising can release endorphins (happy hormones) and boost your mood. Other stress-relieving activities like meditation and nature walks can also help boost serotonin levels and make you feel better,” says Dr Uma. 

Additionally, you can try Sirona’s PMS Gummies to restore your overall hormonal balance. These chewable gummies are packed with the goodness of Dong Quai (female ginseng) to help you feel more energetic. It’s also got chasteberry to improve your mood and lemon balm to relieve skin irritation and acne. Popping one gummy a day can help restore your hormonal balance in a few months and ease off PMS symptoms too.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a sign that you need to assess your hormone levels. Do not rely on self-medication and consult your doctor to get a proper treatment. Be healthy and safe peeps!

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