Hormones play a crucial role in women’s health. Hormonal imbalances have a broad range of signs and symptoms, depending on which hormones are affected. Below are common hormonal conditions that can affect women during and at the end of their reproductive years.

• Irregular periods – Fluctuations in hormones involved in the menstrual cycle like estrogen and progesterone can cause irregular menstrual flow. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and amenorrhea are hormonal conditions that can cause erratic menstrual cycles. 
• Acne –  While clogged pores are the primary cause of breakouts, hormonal shifts before or during menstruation can trigger excess sebum production, leading to oily skin and acne. Excess androgens in the body can also affect skin cells within your hair follicles, making the pores prone to clogging.
• Weight Gain – According to WebMD, you can gain weight due to hormonal changes. For example, a drop in estrogen (a hormone linked to women’s emotional well-being) can cause mood changes, making you want to eat more. It can also affect your leptin levels, a hormone that regulates hunger.
• Sudden Weight Loss – The thyroid gland produces certain hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. When you have too many or too few hormones, your weight can drop. Consult your doctor if you’ve lost around 10 pounds without exercising or changing your diet. 
• Poor Sleep – Your ovaries release progesterone which helps you sleep. When progesterone levels fall during your period, you can have trouble falling asleep. Low levels of estrogen are also linked to night sweats and hot flashes, which can both disrupt sleep. 
• Dry Skin – A decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can make your skin dry. WebMD explains that as you age, your skin naturally thins and moisture retention decreases but a thyroid condition can also contribute to skin dryness. A dermatologist can address skin concerns but if you have other symptoms, it’s best to consult a primary doctor.
• Mood Swings and Depression – According to Medical News Today, fluctuations in estrogen levels can significantly impact mood. The drop in hormones can reduce levels of serotonin, which can result in increased irritability, sadness, and anxiety. Hormonal changes may potentially lead to depression or other mental health conditions.
• Fatigue – Possible reasons behind consistently low energy are increased levels of progesterone or decreased thyroid levels.
• Night Sweats – Drenching sweats can be caused by low estrogen. Night sweats are common among women experiencing perimenopause, but they can also be linked to other hormone issues.
• Thinning Hair and Hair Loss – Healthline explains that when estrogen and progesterone levels go down, the hair grows slowly and becomes thinner. A drop in these hormones also triggers an increase in the production of male hormones that reduce the size of hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. 
• Headaches – A drop in estrogen can trigger headaches. It is common for women to experience headaches before or during menstruation. Regular headaches can indicate a shift in hormone levels. 
• Vaginal Dryness – Low levels of estrogen can cause the vaginal walls to thin, leading to vaginal dryness.
• Decreased Sex Drive – While generally associated with men, women’s bodies also naturally produce testosterone. If testosterone levels are lower than normal, it can reduce libido.