Do I Have a Hormonal Imbalance?

Statistics show that a whopping 80 percent of women suffer from hormonal imbalance. Some may not even realize they’re living with them. With stats like that, it’s easy to wonder whether you’re one of the many. Before we can understand hormonal imbalance and what to look for, we need to understand what hormones do.

What exactly are hormones and what are they responsible for?

Hormones are chemical “messengers” that impact the way your cells and organs function. They help control many of the major processes in your body including things like metabolism and reproduction. They play an integral role in your overall health.

It’s important to remember that hormone levels will fluctuate not only during your cycle each month, but throughout your life—during pregnancy, menopause, etc. This can make testing them tricky. Most tests will only give you a screenshot or close-up image, instead of the broad, big picture image you need. Taking matters into your own hands, such as tracking or charting your cycle may be more beneficial.

The difference between tracking and charting

If you’re keeping tabs on symptoms you experience each month and when you’re bleeding, you’re probably familiar with cycle tracking. You likely know when your next period is due and what to expect as far as PMS, cramps, energy levels, etc.—which is great! But charting is a more in-depth practice. This involves assessing different fertility biomarkers to know when you’ll ovulate. It’s commonly called FAM, or the fertility awareness method.  Whether you’re charting or tracking, you are already on your way to getting a peek into if you have a hormonal imbalance, so keep doing what you’re doing!

Common signs of hormonal imbalance 

We want to preface this section by saying, if you do suffer from one or more of these symptoms below, it does not necessarily mean you have a hormonal imbalance. We strongly recommend you talk with your healthcare professional.

1. Irregular cycles – The typical length of a menstrual cycle is between 21 and 35 days—this is not referring to the time you’re bleeding, but your entire cycle. If yours falls outside these numbers, chat with your OBYN; it could point to PCOS.
2. PMS – Premenstrual Syndrome refers to the symptoms you experience right before your period—cramps, breast tenderness, mood swings, etc. While the symptoms can be frustrating, PMS doesn’t typically stop one from participating in their daily life.
3. PMDD – Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is an extreme form of PMS that interferes with daily life like school, work, social life, and relationships. It’s often associated with a depressed mood, anger or irritability, and feeling overwhelmed or out of control. The exact cause is unknown, but it’s thought to be an atypical response to the normal hormonal changes that take place throughout the menstrual cycle.
4. Weight gain – While hormone levels themselves won’t make you gain weight; their shifts can affect your response to food and what you choose to eat which can lead to weight gain.
5. Chronic/hormonal acne – A breakout before or during your period is normal, but consistent acne that won’t go away could be due to hormonal imbalance. If you’ve exhausted your skin care options and still feel like your skin is in constant breakout mode, it might be time to address your hormones.
6. Mood swings/depression – Estrogen affects key brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. While it’s normal to feel subtle mood changes throughout your cycle, extreme shifts could be due to major fluctuations in your hormone levels.

If you recognize these symptoms as ones you experience on a regular basis and you want to do something about it, we’ve got good news for you! We have two amazing products specifically formulated to help with hormones. 

Semaine supplements that can help

•   The Daily – Formulated to help promote healthy hormones, smooth skin, stable mood, and fewer cravings.
•   PMS & Period Support – Helpful in relieving mood swings, bloating, cramps, and PMS.
•   Cycle Self-Care Bundle – Take both products above together for happier hormones and better periods—and save some dough!

Not sure what’s right for you? Take our quiz to find out!

So many of us suffer from hormonal imbalances, so if that’s you too, you’re not alone! And that’s why we’ve created our line of products to help menstruating bodies live a happier, healthier, more balanced lifestyle naturally. There’s no need to suffer in silence and we’re here to support your beautiful hormonal bodies throughout your lifetime.