Hormones have a lot to answer for. From mood swings and brain fog to irregular cycles, poor sleep, and mystery symptoms that leave you wondering if you’re just “being dramatic” (spoiler: you’re not), hormonal imbalance can affect every corner of life. But getting clear answers? That’s often where the frustration begins.
If you’ve ever left a GP appointment feeling dismissed, or just know something isn’t quite right but don’t know where to start, this one’s for you. Here are seven ways to start understanding your hormone health, and take those first steps back to feeling like you again.
1. Track your symptoms (and patterns)
It sounds basic, but keeping a daily log of your cycle, mood, sleep, energy, skin, digestion, and any new symptoms can reveal useful patterns. Whether you use a notebook, a period tracker app, or just jot things down in your phone’s notes, you’ll start to see what’s happening when. It also gives you solid evidence to take to appointments, which can be invaluable when you’re trying to get taken seriously.
2. Learn the basics of your hormones
Many of us weren’t taught much beyond “oestrogen = female hormone” in school, so it’s no wonder it all feels overwhelming. But understanding the role of oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones can help you make sense of what’s going on. A quick deep-dive (without the scary rabbit holes) can be empowering, especially when you start to recognise how they interact.
3. Trust your gut (literally and metaphorically)
Gut health and hormone health are closely connected. If your digestion feels off – think bloating, constipation, or IBS-like symptoms – it could be playing a role in how your hormones are processed and cleared. But also: trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. You know your body better than anyone.
4. Consider at-home hormone testing
If you’re stuck in the cycle of “everything looks normal” but you feel anything but, at-home hormone testing can be a powerful first step. You could also try at home testing – such as Hertility at-home Hormone and Fertility Test that offers clinical-grade hormone and fertility testing from the comfort of your sofa, with results interpreted by specialists. It takes the guesswork out and can highlight imbalances, perimenopause indicators, or reproductive conditions like PCOS. It’s private, flexible and can give you the clarity you’ve been waiting for.
5. Join communities who get it
There’s nothing more validating than sharing your symptoms and having someone say, “Same here.” Whether it’s The Motherload, or a support group for endometriosis, perimenopause or thyroid conditions, being heard and believed can be the beginning of everything shifting.
6. Don’t dismiss mental health symptoms
Anxiety, mood swings, rage, tearfulness – they’re often hormone-driven, especially in perimenopause or postpartum. If you’re struggling, speak to someone. Mental health support and hormone support go hand in hand, and you deserve help with both.
7. Push for better care
You are allowed to ask questions, seek second opinions, and advocate for yourself. Whether it’s HRT, thyroid treatment, or referrals to specialists, don’t settle for being brushed off. Keep going until you’re heard.
