Hormonal Support

Understanding Hormonal Balance

Hormones are chemical messengers that influence nearly every function in the body – from menstrual cycles and fertility to mood, metabolism and sleep. Natural fluctuations occur during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, but when hormone levels become imbalanced outside these patterns, symptoms can arise.

Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance

Mood swings and fatigue – Changes in oestrogen or thyroid hormones can lead to low energy, anxiety or depression. Brain fog and poor concentration are also common.
Appetite and weight changes – Hormonal disruptions (like insulin resistance in PCOS) can cause unexplained weight gain or loss, cravings or increased hunger.
Irregular periods or fertility issues – Changes in oestrogen, progesterone or thyroid hormones may result in erratic cycles or difficulties conceiving.
Skin and hair changes – Persistent adult acne, thinning hair or excess facial hair may suggest an imbalance in androgens or thyroid hormones.
Hot flushes and poor sleep – Symptoms like night sweats or insomnia are often due to falling oestrogen, particularly during perimenopause and menopause.

If you’re experiencing these signs, it’s worth speaking to your GP or a hormone specialist. Blood tests can help confirm whether hormones like oestrogen, progesterone or thyroid hormones are outside expected ranges.

What Hormonal Support Means

Hormonal support refers to personalised strategies to restore balance and relieve symptoms. It often includes a mix of lifestyle changes, medication and targeted treatments.

Lifestyle adjustments – Diet, sleep, exercise and stress management are key. Weight loss, especially around the midsection, can improve insulin sensitivity and hormone regulation. Reducing alcohol and sugar intake may also help.
Medical treatments – For diagnosed hormone conditions (e.g. thyroid dysfunction, PCOS, premature menopause), treatment may include HRT, thyroid hormone therapy, the contraceptive pill or anti-androgens like spironolactone.
Fertility support – Ovulation-stimulating medications like clomiphene or letrozole may be used if hormonal issues are affecting fertility.
Insulin resistance management – In PCOS, metformin is often prescribed to improve insulin response and lower androgen levels.
Mood support – In cases like PMDD, antidepressants or hormonal contraception may help stabilise mood throughout the cycle.

When to Seek Help

Many women are told their symptoms are “just part of being a woman” – but persistent fatigue, mood swings, hair loss, acne or cycle changes deserve medical attention. Speak to a GP if symptoms are interfering with your quality of life. With the right support, many hormonal issues can be managed effectively.

Quick Facts, Big Impact

Prevalence in the UK

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) – when menopause occurs before age 40 – affects around 1 in 100 women in the UK. About 5% reach menopause before 45. These women often need hormone replacement to protect long-term health. Hypothyroidism, another common hormonal issue, affects around 2% of UK women and often requires lifelong treatment. In total, millions of women live with hormone-related conditions that need ongoing support – from early menopause and thyroid disorders to adrenal insufficiency.

Diagnosis Delays

Hormonal issues are often overlooked – especially in younger women. In POI, symptoms like hot flushes, irregular periods or mood swings may be mistaken for stress, causing diagnosis delays of several years. One UK study found an average 6-year delay from symptom onset to POI diagnosis. Thyroid conditions are typically picked up via blood tests, but fatigue and weight gain can still be misattributed to lifestyle. Raising awareness of hormonal red flags is key to reducing delays.

Common Causes
Hormonal imbalances can arise from a variety of conditions, including premature ovarian insufficiency, thyroid disorders, adrenal issues, or menopause. Causes include autoimmune disease, genetics, certain medical treatments, and lifestyle factors like stress or poor nutrition. Hormone fluctuations are also a normal part of ageing and reproductive transitions.

Treatment Options

Hormonal support usually means replacing what the body isn’t producing. For POI, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or the combined pill is advised until the typical age of menopause (around 51) – this eases symptoms and protects heart and bone health. HRT is considered safe for younger women with POI and tailored to the individual using patches, gels or tablets. Hypothyroidism is treated with levothyroxine – a simple daily pill available on the NHS. Other hormonal deficiencies, like adrenal insufficiency or type 1 diabetes, also require lifelong support. Alongside medication, a healthy lifestyle – including exercise, a balanced diet and stopping smoking – helps support long-term wellbeing.