The Comprehensive Guide to Female’s Hormones

Hormones are chemical substances that deliver messages from cells to different organs or tissues in the body. They are secreted from the endocrine system, which includes different glands and organs.  

Hormones regulate various processes in the body, which include growth and development, metabolism, sleep cycle, and reproduction. The reproductive processes are regulated by reproductive hormones that are secreted separately in men and women.   

This article provides a detailed list of female hormones and functions associated with each one of them. 

What are Female Hormones?  

Female reproductive hormones regulate sexual development and reproductive processes in women. They are produced by the ovaries, adrenal glands, and pituitary gland. The primary hormones include estrogen and progesterone, along with small amounts of testosterone. These hormones play a key role in puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. 

What are the Different Female Reproductive Hormones? 

The different reproductive hormones secreted in women’s bodies include:

1. Estrogen

Estrogen is the major female hormone. It is mostly secreted from the ovaries, but a small amount is released from adrenal glands and fat cells. The functions of the hormone include:

– Development of secondary sex characteristics like breasts, hips, and pubic hair. 

– Maintaining regular periods and encouraging ovulation by thickening the lining of the uterus. 

– Thinning of cervical mucus that eases the path of sperm towards the egg. 

– Stimulating the growth of egg follicles. 

There are three types of estrogen- 

Oestrone: It is secreted after menopause. 

Oestradiol: It is the most powerful form of oestrogen and is released during the reproductive years. 

Oestriol: It is produced during pregnancy. 

2. Progesterone

Progesterone hormone is secreted by the ovaries after ovulation or by the placenta during pregnancy. The key function of progesterone is to prepare the endometrium or lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg to plant itself there and grow. Once a woman starts ovulating, progesterone reduces the production of estrogen.

Also read about estrogen affects in body

3. Testosterone

Testosterone is a male reproductive hormone but is also found in small quantities in women. It is secreted from the adrenal glands and ovaries. The function of the hormone is to regulate libido and menstrual cycle and maintain bone density and muscle strength.  

4. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

FSH is released in the bloodstream from the pituitary gland and affects the ovarian follicle. These follicles are sacks filled with liquid which contains egg cells. The function of FSH is to make the eggs ready for ovulation, which includes the release of an egg from the ovary and its path towards fertilization in the fallopian tube. FSH also provides a signal for the secretion of estrogen in the bloodstream in women. 

5. Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Luteinizing hormone is secreted in the blood by the pituitary gland in the brain. The rise of LH in the blood is termed as LH surge, and it causes ovulation and develops the corpus luteum. Corpus luteum is a temporary organ that appears with every menstrual cycle and disappears if there is no fertilization. If a woman gets pregnant, the corpus luteum also releases progesterone. 

What are Hormonal Imbalances? 

Hormonal imbalances occur when a particular hormone is overproduced or underproduced. Some imbalances in women are natural and occur due to changes like:

• Puberty 

• Menstrual cycle 

• Pregnancy 

• Breastfeeding 

• Perimenopause and menopause 

• Use of hormonal therapy 

Certain hormonal imbalances can be a sign of severe underlying conditions, such as:

• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) 

• Ovarian tumour 

• Hypogonadism or shortage of female hormones 

• Miscarriage or abnormal pregnancy 

Also read more about sugar test during pregnancy 

What are the Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances? 

Symptoms that are mostly linked to hormonal imbalances in women are:

1. Irregular periods
2. Sudden weight gain or loss
3. Vaginal dryness
4. Infertility
5. Excess body hair
6. Lower libido

What are the Ways to Manage Hormonal Imbalances?  

Hormonal imbalances can be managed by making some lifestyle changes, which include:

1. Eating a nutritious diet that includes fresh fruits, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and lean proteins.
2. Exercising regularly to maintain fitness and prevent obesity.
3. Taking adequate sleep of 7-9 hours daily. 

A clear understanding of female reproductive hormones and their functions can help in the effective monitoring of symptoms associated with severe diseases. If one experiences symptoms of hormonal imbalances, they should immediately consult their healthcare provider and book a test for hormonal with Dr Lal PathLabs for accurate diagnosis.  

 FAQs  

1. How many female hormones are there?

Here is a list of female hormones:

1. Estrogen
2. Progesterone
3. Testosterone
4. Follicle Stimulating Hormone
5. Luteinizing hormone (LH)

2. How many hormones in the female body are responsible for periods?

Menstruation or periods is the shedding of the lining of the uterus, which causes bleeding. The menstrual cycle of women is regulated by a variety of hormones, including oestrogen, progesterone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and Luteinizing Hormone. 

3. Are there any female hormone tests?

There are many female hormone tests that are performed through a blood test. These tests can be conducted for a variety of reasons, like confirming pregnancy, tracking menopause, detecting hormonal imbalances, and assessing any reproductive issues.