Hormonal Imbalance

 

Willow OBGYN

Obstetrics & Gynecology located in San Antonio, TX

Hormones influence every cell and system in your body, so an imbalance can significantly impact your quality of life. Expert OB/GYN Kelly Morales, MD diagnoses and treats hormonal imbalance in women at her private practice in San Antonio. If you suffer from symptoms of hormonal imbalance, call the office of Dr. Morales or book an appointment online today.

Hormonal Imbalance Q & A

What is a hormonal imbalance?

Hormones are chemical messengers that circulate through your bloodstream telling tissues and organs what to do. They regulate your metabolism, reproductive system, and other vital bodily processes.

Too much or too little of a particular hormone can cause an imbalance that affects your entire body. Think of the changes you experience shortly before your period. It’s normal for hormones to fluctuate with your menstrual cycle or during pregnancy, but a prolonged hormonal imbalance can cause debilitating symptoms.

What are symptoms of a hormonal imbalance?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of hormone you have an imbalance of, and whether you have too much or too little. Common symptoms of hormonal imbalance include:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles

  • Heavy bleeding during your period

  • Skipping periods

  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

  • Thinning hair on top of your head

  • Excess hair growth on your face, chest, or back

  • Acne on your face, chest, or back

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Painful sex

  • Hot flashes and night sweats

  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

  • Memory loss or trouble concentrating

  • Depression

  • Anxiety or irritability

  • Mood swings

  • Abdominal pain

  • Bloating, diarrhea, or constipation

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Decreased sex drive

What causes a hormonal imbalance in women?

Several hormones can contribute to an imbalance. You may already be familiar with estrogen and progesterone and the role they play in controlling your reproductive system, but women’s bodies also create testosterone, the male reproductive hormone.

Many situations and medical conditions can cause these hormones to become imbalanced, such as:

  • Menopause or perimenopause

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

  • Primary ovarian insufficiency

  • Hormonal birth control

  • Diabetes

  • Thyroid imbalance

  • Stress

  • Eating disorders

  • Cancer treatments

How do you diagnose and treat a hormonal imbalance?

Dr. Morales begins with a comprehensive physical exam and review of your medical history. She asks questions about your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and any medications or supplements you take.

Depending on your specific symptoms, she may also perform a pelvic exam, blood test, or ultrasound to diagnose the cause of your hormonal imbalance.

Then, she discusses the best options for treatment based on your symptoms and condition. Your treatment may include:

  • Suggestions for lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise

  • Medications to control your hormone levels or relieve symptoms

  • Nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation to reduce vaginal dryness and painful sex

If you suspect you have a hormonal imbalance, call or book an appointment online today.

 
“Dr Morales is awesome. Very attentive and knowledgeable. She always knew exactly what to say to put me at ease during my pregnancy. If I ever have another child, I only want her to deliver.”
— Keris E.
 
 
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