Understanding Hormonal Imbalances in Women - How Can Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Help?
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, from metabolism and reproduction to mood and energy levels. However, when these hormones are out of balance, they can cause a range of physiological, emotional, and mental health disruptions. Hormonal imbalances are common among women and can occur at any stage of life. Unfortunately, in this modern world, the way our lifestyles are structured aren’t very conducive to the cyclical nature of our female hormonal phases, which may affect our overall health. In this article, we will explore the signs, causes, and the use of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for hormonal imbalances in women.
What Are Hormonal Imbalances?
Hormonal imbalances occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the bloodstream. Even slight changes can have significant effects on the body, as hormones are the messengers that are involved in almost every physiological process, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance in Women -
1. Irregular Periods
One of the most common signs of hormonal imbalance is an irregular menstrual cycle. This can include missed periods, unusually heavy or light periods, or spotting between periods. Hormonal disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid issues are often the culprits behind menstrual irregularities, but lifestyle factors such as stress and poor sleep may also cause irregular menstrual cycles.
2. Acne
Persistent acne, especially around the jawline, chin, and upper back, can be a sign of elevated androgens, commonly seen in conditions like PCOS. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle may stimulate excessive sebum production from sebaceous glads, which can clog the pores in the skin and trigger acne flare-ups or other skin break outs.
3. Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight
Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, can be a sign of insulin resistance, thyroid dysfunction, or high cortisol levels. These imbalances can make it difficult to lose weight, even with a balanced diet and regular exercise. It is important to note that due to our hormonal changes throughout the month, our diet and exercise needs will change depending on which phase of the cycle we are in. For example, an imbalanced diet or strenuous exercise routine during certain phases of the cycle may stress the body and throw our hormones out of balance. Once the hormones are out of balance, we may find we hold on to stubborn weight no matter what we eat or how much we exercise.
4. Mood Swings and Mental Health Issues
Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Estrogen influences the function of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, so when estrogen steeply declines after ovulation, we may notice a drop in mood. If our progesterone rises efficiently in the luteal phase (post-ovulation) then we will experience its calming effects on the nervous system. If progesterone levels are too high, we may also experience mood swings and emotional volatility. Thus, the balance between estrogen and progesterone is crucial. Women with thyroid disorders or conditions like PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) may experience more severe emotional disturbances as these disorders have a more significant effect on our hormones.
5. Fatigue
Chronic fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest may be linked to hormonal imbalances, such as low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism) or adrenal fatigue caused by prolonged stress. Several dietary and lifestyle factors may also affect energy production, such as poor sleep, nutritional deficiencies, and amount of physical activity.
6. Sleep Problems:
Hormones like progesterone have a calming effect on the brain and help promote restful sleep. A drop in progesterone or an increase in cortisol can lead to insomnia or poor sleep quality. Over time, inadequate sleep can further exacerbate fatigue, stress, and hormonal imbalances, creating a vicious cycle that affects overall health and well-being.
7. Hair Changes:
Hair thinning, hair loss, or the growth of excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism) are signs of hormonal imbalances, particularly involving estrogen, androgens, or thyroid hormones. Imbalances in these hormones can affect hair follicles and lead to noticeable changes in hair density and growth patterns.
8. Digestive Issues:
Hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact digestive health, leading to symptoms like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Estrogen and progesterone play key roles in regulating gut motility, and imbalances can disrupt these processes, causing discomfort, irregular bowel movements, and even symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
9. Low Libido:
A decrease in sexual desire or arousal can be linked to low levels of estrogen or testosterone, thyroid dysfunction, or high levels of stress. Hormonal imbalances affecting libido can strain intimacy and relationships, as they may lead to decreased sexual satisfaction and emotional connection with a partner.
10. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats:
Hot flashes and night sweats are common symptoms experienced during perimenopause and menopause due to fluctuating estrogen levels. These symptoms can significantly disrupt sleep and daily life, causing discomfort, irritability, and a decline in overall quality of life.
11. Breast Changes:
Tender, swollen, or fibrocystic breasts can indicate elevated estrogen levels or hormonal fluctuations that occur during different phases of the menstrual cycle. These changes can cause discomfort and concern, particularly if there is an increased sensitivity or the formation of lumps, which may require medical evaluation.
12. Infertility:
Difficulty conceiving is often linked to hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by PCOS, thyroid disorders, or low progesterone levels. These imbalances can disrupt ovulation, cause irregular menstrual cycles, and impact the ability to sustain a healthy pregnancy, often requiring medical intervention, allied healthcare and/or lifestyle changes to improve fertility.
13. Memory Issues:
Symptoms like brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and memory lapses can be associated with low estrogen levels or thyroid dysfunction. These cognitive changes can affect daily functioning, productivity, and overall mental health, leading to frustration and decreased quality of life.
Causes of Hormonal Imbalances in Women -
Hormonal imbalances in women can stem from a variety of factors, each impacting the body in different ways. One common cause is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine disorder that disrupts hormone levels, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and hirsutism. Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can also cause significant hormonal disruptions, affecting metabolism, energy levels, and mood. As women approach menopause, the natural decline in reproductive hormones during perimenopause and menopause often triggers symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Additionally, lifestyle and external factors can contribute to hormonal imbalances. Chronic stress is a major contributor, as it raises cortisol levels, which can disrupt other hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and anxiety. Poor dietary and eating habits can cause insulin resistance, weight gain, and further hormonal disruptions. Obesity exacerbates these issues by increasing estrogen production, which can disrupt menstrual cycles and several other health markers.
Hormonal contraceptives and other medications can also alter natural hormone balances, sometimes causing side effects such as mood changes, weight gain, and irregular periods. Environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors, such as pesticides, plastics, and chemicals found in personal care products, can interfere with the body's hormonal balance by mimicking or blocking natural hormones, leading to disruptions in female reproductive health.
How can Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine help with Hormonal Imbalance in Women?
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been used for centuries to address hormonal imbalances in women by restoring harmony within the body. According to TCM principles, hormonal imbalances are often linked to disruptions in the flow of Qi and Blood, or imbalances in Yin and Yang throughout the monthly cycle. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi, promote Blood circulation, harmonise the vital substances (Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang), and support the body’s natural healing processes. This can help balance hormone levels, alleviate symptoms such as irregular periods, mood swings, and fatigue, and improve overall reproductive health. In conjunction with Chinese herbal formulas, dietetic principles and lifestyle adjustments, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to treating hormonal imbalances, addressing both the root causes and the symptoms to enhance well-being and vitality.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above—whether it's irregular cycles, dysmenorrhea, hormonal imbalances, insomnia, digestive issues, or low libido—acupuncture and Chinese medicine may be a natural and effective solution for you.
Book an acupuncture appointment today and take the first step towards feeling balanced, energized, and empowered in your health journey. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to email me or fill in the contact form on my website.
Veronika Peovska
(BHSc Acupuncture)
“To be skilled at nurturing one’s nature and wellbeing is to treat disease before it arises.” - SUN SIMIAO
