Hormonal Changes in Women

For women, hormone levels fluctuate significantly during menopause and perimenopause, the 10-year period before menopause.

Estrogen: This female sex hormone supports sexual and reproductive functions. Women typically experience a gradual decline in estrogen starting in their late 30s. This decline accelerates during perimenopause, which can begin as early as the mid-40s. By the time women reach menopause, estrogen levels can drop by as much as 90% compared to peak levels.

Progesterone: This hormone helps to stabilize menstrual cycles and prepare the body for pregnancy. Progesterone decreases with age, which often leads to irregular menstrual cycles and increased menstrual symptoms. By their late 40s and early 50s, many women will notice changes in their cycle frequency and flow.

Testosterone: This sex hormone helps maintain bone mineral density and regulate mood. Although it is often thought of as a male hormone, women produce testosterone as well. In women, levels typically decline gradually, starting in their 30s, which can impact libido, energy levels, and muscle mass.

Signs and symptoms of hormonal changes in women can include hot flashes and night sweats, mood swings and irritability, changes in libido, sleep disturbances, weight gain (particularly around the abdomen), and thinning hair and dry skin.

Hormonal Changes in Men

Men also experience significant hormonal changes as they age, although the process tends to be more gradual, and often goes unnoticed, compared to women.

Testosterone: This male sex hormone supports fertility and sexual desire. Testosterone levels usually peak in the late teens to early twenties. After that, men can experience a gradual decline of about 1% per year starting in their 30s. By age 50, testosterone levels may be significantly lower, leading to various symptoms such as reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): This hormone is a derivative of testosterone and supports sexual development and function. As hormone levels decrease, it can impact prostate health and hair loss.

Estrogen: In men, estrogen supports sperm production, sex drive, and erectile function. Interestingly, while testosterone levels drop, estrogen levels can increase due to the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. This shift can lead to unwanted weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

Signs and symptoms of hormonal changes in men can include decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, fatigue and decreased energy levels, mood changes (including depression or anxiety), loss of muscle mass and increased body fat, and difficulty concentrating.

When to Seek Guidance
It is important to recognize when hormonal changes may warrant medical intervention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if you experience severe mood swings or depression, persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest, significant changes in libido or sexual function, unexplained weight gain or loss, or any other symptoms that interfere with your daily life.

 Women frequently experience significant mood changes during menopause, yet many do not seek help or discuss these changes openly. Awareness and open communicaiton with healthcare providers will ensure you get the care you need.

Ref: Hormone Shifts You Should Know About