The Most Common Causes of Hormonal Imbalance in Women

When hormone levels become disrupted, even slightly, women can experience a wide range of symptoms that affect their physical health, emotional wellbeing and quality of life.

Hormonal imbalance is incredibly common and can occur at any stage of life. While some fluctuations are completely normal, persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention.

In this guide, we'll explore the most common causes of hormonal imbalance in women, the symptoms to look out for and how professional support from 24 HR Pharmacy can help you manage your health with confidence.

What Is a Hormonal Imbalance?

A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of a particular hormone in the bloodstream.

Because hormones work together in a delicate balance, even small changes can have noticeable effects throughout the body.

Common hormones that affect women's health include:

• Oestrogen
• Progesterone
• Testosterone
• Thyroid hormones
• Insulin
• Cortisol

When these hormones become imbalanced, symptoms can vary significantly from one woman to another.

Common Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalance can present in many different ways, including:

• Irregular periods
• Heavy or painful periods
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Low mood
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Difficulty losing weight
• Sleep disturbances
• Low libido
• Acne
• Hair thinning
• Excess facial hair growth
• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Brain fog

Because many of these symptoms overlap with other health conditions, it's important to seek professional advice if symptoms persist.

1.Perimenopause and Menopause

One of the most common causes of hormonal imbalance in women is the natural transition into perimenopause and menopause.

Perimenopause can begin several years before menopause and is characterised by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone.

During this time, women may experience:

• Irregular periods
• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Sleep problems
• Mood changes
• Brain fog
• Vaginal dryness
• Reduced libido
• Weight gain

Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.

While menopause is a natural stage of life, symptoms can have a significant impact on day-to-day wellbeing.

2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age.

PCOS is associated with an imbalance of reproductive hormones and can affect ovulation, fertility and metabolism.

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Weight gain
• Acne
• Excess facial or body hair
• Thinning hair on the scalp
• Difficulty conceiving

Many women remain undiagnosed for years because symptoms can vary considerably.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks.

Name update: Why Has PCOS Been Renamed PMOS? A Brief Overview

For many years, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) has been the recognised name for one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women. However, many healthcare professionals and researchers have increasingly argued that the name doesn't accurately reflect the true nature of the condition.

The term PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) has been proposed to better describe what is actually happening within the body.

The main reason for the change is that PCOS is not just an ovarian condition.

Many women diagnosed with PCOS don't actually have ovarian cysts, and the condition affects far more than reproductive health alone. Research has shown that it involves a complex combination of:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Insulin resistance
• Metabolic dysfunction
• Weight regulation challenges
• Cardiovascular risk factors
• Fertility and ovulation issues

The proposed name Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) highlights these broader health implications:

• Polyendocrine refers to the multiple hormone systems involved.
• Metabolic reflects the important role of insulin resistance and metabolism.
• Ovarian acknowledges the impact on ovulation and reproductive health.
• Syndrome recognises that it is a collection of symptoms and health effects rather than a single disease.

Supporters of the name change believe PMOS helps patients and healthcare professionals better understand that the condition extends beyond the ovaries and requires a whole-body approach to management.

Is PMOS Officially Replacing PCOS?

It's important to note that while the term PMOS has gained attention within the medical community, PCOS remains the recognised diagnostic term used by the NHS, NICE and most healthcare providers in the UK at present.

For now, many experts view PMOS as an evolving term that more accurately reflects modern scientific understanding of the condition, rather than a complete replacement that has been universally adopted.

Why This Matters for Women

The shift towards PMOS is about more than changing a name.

It helps reinforce the message that women experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, weight gain, insulin resistance, acne, excess hair growth, fertility challenges and fatigue are dealing with a condition that affects multiple aspects of health.

By recognising the metabolic and hormonal nature of the condition, healthcare providers can take a more comprehensive approach to diagnosis, treatment and long-term health management.

In short, the move from PCOS to PMOS reflects a growing understanding that this is not simply an ovarian condition, but a complex hormonal and metabolic syndrome that deserves broader recognition and support.

 3. Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland plays an essential role in regulating metabolism, energy production and body temperature.

When the thyroid produces too much or too little hormone, it can cause widespread symptoms.

Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism)

Symptoms may include:

Fatigue

• Weight gain
• Depression
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Feeling cold

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)

Symptoms may include:

• Weight loss
• Anxiety
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating
• Difficulty sleeping

Thyroid disorders are particularly common in women and should be investigated if symptoms suggest a potential issue.

4. Chronic Stress

Modern lifestyles can place significant strain on the body's hormonal systems.

When stress levels remain elevated for prolonged periods, the body produces higher levels of cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone.

Persistently elevated cortisol may contribute to:

• Sleep disturbances
• Increased appetite
• Weight gain
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Irregular menstrual cycles

Managing stress through lifestyle changes, exercise, sleep optimisation and professional support can help improve hormonal balance over time.

5. Insulin Resistance

Insulin is responsible for helping the body regulate blood sugar levels.

When cells become less responsive to insulin, the body compensates by producing more.

This condition, known as insulin resistance, can contribute to:

• Weight gain
• Increased hunger
• Fatigue
• Difficulty losing weight
• PMOS-related symptoms

Insulin resistance is often linked with obesity and metabolic health conditions, making early intervention important.

6. Pregnancy and Postpartum Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy causes dramatic hormonal changes that support the development of the baby.

After childbirth, hormone levels rapidly adjust again, which can affect both physical and emotional well-being.

Some women experience:

• Mood changes
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Changes in libido
• Irregular periods

These changes are often temporary but can sometimes persist and warrant further assessment.

7. Certain Medications

Some medications can influence hormone levels and contribute to hormonal symptoms.

Examples include:

• Hormonal contraceptives
• Fertility treatments
• Steroid medications
• Certain mental health medications

If you suspect a medication may be affecting your hormonal health, speak to a healthcare professional before making any changes.

Can Hormonal Imbalances Affect Weight?

Yes.

Many hormonal conditions can influence body weight and metabolism.

For example:

• Menopause may contribute to changes in body fat distribution.
• PMOS can make weight management more challenging.
• Thyroid disorders can affect metabolic rate.
• Insulin resistance may promote weight gain.

While hormones are rarely the sole cause of weight gain, they can make maintaining a healthy weight significantly more difficult.

When Should You Seek Help?

You should consider seeking professional advice if you experience:

Persistent fatigue

• Irregular periods
• Significant mood changes
• Unexplained weight gain
• Menopausal symptoms affecting daily life
• Symptoms of PCOS
• Changes in sexual health or libido

Early assessment can help identify underlying causes and ensure appropriate treatment.

How 24 HR Pharmacy Can Help

At 24 HR Pharmacy, we understand that hormonal health can have a major impact on overall wellbeing.

Our online healthcare services provide convenient access to a range of treatments and support options designed to help women manage common hormonal health concerns.

Depending on your individual circumstances, 24 HR Pharmacy may be able to support you with:

• Menopause treatment options
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
• Contraceptive services
• Women's health consultations
• Weight management treatments for eligible patients
• Professional healthcare advice through a regulated online pharmacy

Our qualified healthcare professionals assess each patient individually to ensure treatments are safe, appropriate and tailored to their needs.

Final Thoughts

Hormonal imbalances are incredibly common and can affect women at every stage of life.

Whether caused by menopause, PMOS, thyroid disorders, stress, pregnancy or other factors, recognising the signs early can help you take control of your health and wellbeing.

If you're experiencing symptoms that may be linked to hormonal changes, seeking professional advice is the first step towards understanding what's happening and finding the right support.

At 24 HR Pharmacy, we're committed to providing convenient access to trusted healthcare services that help women manage their health with confidence.