Female Hormones & Their Functions

What are female sex hormones?

Because (sex) hormones are involved in so many different processes in the female body, their effects are reflected in your mood, the health of your skin and hair, your sexual desire, your energy level and much more. This means they have a major influence on sexuality, the psyche and general well-being.

Because these hormones play a fundamental role throughout our entire life, it is important to know them, to understand how they work, and to be aware of the consequences of an imbalance in the hormone system – something that affects more women worldwide than one might think.

Among the most prominent female hormones are those produced in the ovaries: oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone; and those synthesised in the brain: FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising hormone).

Oestrogen

Strictly speaking, oestrogen is a collective term for several related sex hormones – the most important being oestradiol (the most potent form), oestrone and oestriol. As already mentioned, oestrogen is synthesised predominantly in the ovaries and in small amounts in the adrenal glands and fat cells. During pregnancy, oestrogen is also produced in the placenta. Its role in our sexual and reproductive system is very important, as its main function is to make the female reproductive system fertile.

Nevertheless, oestrogen receptors are found throughout the body, including the brain, breast, pelvic floor and genital tract, which makes clear that this hormone influences not only our reproductive system but also other parts of the body:

• growth of hair and nails
• body fat distribution
• breast development
• bone development
• body fluid regulation and fluid retention
• cardiovascular physiology
• cognition, sleep and mood
• collagen production, skin appearance and skin health

In addition, oestrogens promote bone formation and inhibit bone breakdown. A low oestrogen level (for example during the menopause) can therefore favour osteoporosis. Oestrogen also has an influence on the cardiovascular system, which is why a hormone deficiency in this area plays a role in the long term.

Progesterone

Like oestrogen, this hormone is synthesised at the end of ovulation in the ovaries – more precisely in the corpus luteum – and during pregnancy in the placenta. The development and function of the uterus depend largely on the work of this hormone.

The main function of progesterone is to prepare the uterine lining (endometrium) for the reception of the fertilised egg cell for implantation. During pregnancy, progesterone levels are maintained to support a healthy uterine environment for the growing foetus. If no pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels fall, which causes the endometrium to be shed and excreted through menstruation.

Progesterone also has a balancing effect on the psyche: it stabilises the nervous system and promotes relaxation. A progesterone deficiency, on the other hand, can have unfavourable effects and, among other things, increase the risk of miscarriage.

Testosterone

This hormone, normally associated with men, is also produced in small amounts by the adrenal glands and the ovaries – so in women the ovaries also form androgens. It influences both libido and the regulation of the menstrual cycle and is also associated with bone health. How much testosterone is freely available in the blood depends, among other things, on sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).

LH and FSH

Luteinising hormone (LH): This hormone, although less well known, plays a fundamental role in the female reproductive system. It is synthesised in the pituitary gland and stimulates the production of androgens – “male” hormones such as testosterone – and oestradiol, the most potent form of oestrogen. One of the most important functions of LH is to facilitate ovulation by causing the release of the egg cell contained in the follicle. The LH level falls again if no fertilisation takes place.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Like luteinising hormone, FSH is synthesised in the pituitary gland and plays a fundamental role in controlling growth and reproductive activities. It is one of the hormones essential for pubertal development, as it stimulates oestrogen production and facilitates the maturation of the follicles in the ovaries. A persistently high FSH level can, incidentally, be an indication of the beginning menopause.

How does hormone production change over a woman’s life?

During the various developmental phases of a woman, hormone levels are subject to natural changes, e.g. during puberty, the menstrual cycle, the period after birth and the menopause.

Puberty: Triggered by another hormone called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), the production of LH and FSH is stimulated to initiate the transformation. Both LH and FSH serve to stimulate the release of the most important female sex hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, in order to prepare the body for the following physical changes: growth of pubic and armpit hair, growth and development of the body, an increase in body fat (mainly on the thighs and hips), maturation of the reproductive organs (ovaries, uterus and vagina) as well as the onset of the menstrual cycle.

Menstruation: The menstrual cycle is the monthly process comprising a series of changes to prepare the body for the possibility of a pregnancy. It lasts approximately 28 days and is divided into three phases: the follicular phase, the ovulation phase and the luteal phase. Each of these phases repeats itself incessantly during a woman’s fertile years until the menopause. During pregnancy it is interrupted and begins again after the birth of the baby.

• Follicular phase (approx. 14 days, and the most variable phase): This first phase begins on the first day of menstruation, when the production of FSH increases. FSH promotes the growth of the follicles in the ovaries, one of which will ovulate during the cycle. This follicle, which contains the egg cell, begins to produce more oestrogen and matures, while the others regress.
  
• Ovulation phase: This is where LH comes into play, stimulated by the rise in oestrogen. LH causes the follicle to burst, with the subsequent release of the matured egg cell from the ovary – “ovulation”. At this point (around day 14), fertilisation can take place if the egg cell travels down the fallopian tube to the uterus. This can only happen within about 12 to 24 hours of the release of the egg cell.
  
  
• Luteal phase (approx. 12–14 days, fairly constant): This final phase involves the drop in the oestrogen level and a rise in progesterone in order to facilitate the implantation of the egg cell. If the egg cell is not fertilised, the follicle contracts, progesterone levels fall, and the endometrium is shed and excreted through menstruation. This completes the cycle.

Pregnancy: In the case of fertilisation, a pregnancy can occur. Once the fertilised egg cell has attached to the uterine wall, the developing embryo begins to produce the hormone chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) – the “pregnancy hormone”. This hormone is measured by a pregnancy test. It prevents the uterine lining from being shed, so that the woman does not have a period, and promotes the production of progesterone so that the uterus continues to develop. Oestrogen levels also rise steadily during pregnancy in order to improve vascularisation and nutrient transport. From the 4th month of pregnancy, the placenta takes over the main production of oestrogen and progesterone.

After birth (postpartum): At the end of the pregnancy, hormone levels change dramatically again in order to gradually settle at normal values. These hormonal fluctuations can contribute to what is known as “postpartum depression”.

Perimenopause & menopause: This is the final phase of female development; it occurs at around the age of 50 and is determined by the natural cessation of menstruation. The changes are preceded by the perimenopause, characterised by irregular menstrual cycles. The physical changes are caused by hormonal fluctuations, in particular of the oestrogen and progesterone levels. When these hormones decrease, the vagina becomes less lubricated, libido decreases, and sleep disturbances can occur more frequently. Typical symptoms of the menopause also include hot flushes and mood swings. Eventually, the function of the ovaries ends, and a woman is no longer fertile.

Female hormones and their imbalance

We have discussed the normal changes in hormone levels from puberty to the menopause. However, hormonal imbalances can also arise from external factors such as the use of hormonal contraceptives, diet, stress and being overweight. These imbalances can in turn cause symptoms ranging from anxiety, muscle pain, water retention, irritability, fatigue, premenstrual complaints, acne, weight fluctuations and hot flushes through to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Mood swings are a particularly common sign here – varying greatly depending on their severity.

You can read how a hormonal imbalance can show itself after stopping the pill in the linked article.

What influences the female hormone balance

In many cases, hormonal disorders can already be positively influenced by lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, stress reduction, sufficient sleep and a healthy body weight help to support the natural balance.

During the menopause, medically prescribed hormone therapies (hormone replacement therapy) can relieve complaints such as hot flushes and mood swings – the benefits and risks are weighed up individually with the doctor. Acupuncture is also discussed in this context; the study data on it is inconsistent. Soya products contain what are known as phytoestrogens, which are likewise discussed in connection with hormonal fluctuations.

Some micronutrients with authorised statements play a role in hormone, bone and nerve metabolism²:

• Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity and to normal psychological function.
• Vitamin D and calcium contribute to the maintenance of normal bones – relevant because a falling oestrogen level affects the bones.
• Magnesium contributes to normal psychological function and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

In this context, some people are additionally interested in ingredients such as Inositol. You will find an overview of suitable products in the Women’s Health and Hormonal Balance categories. It is also advisable to have your hormone status checked regularly by a doctor from around the age of 40.

Conclusion

Oestrogen, progesterone and co. control far more than reproduction: they shape mood, skin, bones, the cardiovascular system and energy levels throughout life. Fluctuations are completely normal during puberty, the cycle, pregnancy and the menopause. But if the balance is permanently out of sync, it’s worth taking a look at the hormone status – and seeking medical advice to clarify the cause.

Frequently asked questions about female sex hormones

Which hormones should be tested in women?

Depending on the question, oestrogen (oestradiol), progesterone, testosterone, FSH and LH are primarily determined in the blood – additionally SHBG, prolactin, the anti-Müllerian hormone and the thyroid values. Which values are useful depends on the complaints and is decided by a doctor.

Can I buy female hormones without a prescription?

No. Hormone preparations such as oestrogen or progesterone preparations are prescription-only in Germany and available only after medical consultation. Vegavero does not offer any hormones. If you have complaints, seeing a doctor is the right way – there, the hormone status can be determined and a suitable therapy discussed.

What boosts female hormones?

Generally speaking, the body’s own hormones cannot be “boosted”, and no food supplement can specifically increase them. What influences the hormone balance is above all lifestyle factors such as sufficient sleep, exercise, stress reduction and a healthy body weight. Soya products contain phytoestrogens, which are discussed in this context. If there is a genuine hormone deficiency, treatment belongs in medical hands.

Which symptoms indicate a hormonal imbalance?

Common ones are cycle disorders, mood swings, fatigue, skin problems, weight fluctuations, hot flushes and a changed energy level. If the complaints persist, the hormone status should be checked by a doctor.

From what age should the hormone status be checked?

For specific complaints at any time – regardless of age. Generally, regular checks from around the age of 40 are considered advisable, as hormone production gradually changes during this time.

Sources

¹ Average age at menopause: German Menopause Society; IQWiG / gesundheitsinformation.de. https://www.gesundheitsinformation.de/wechseljahrsbeschwerden.html

² The statements on vitamin B6, vitamin D, calcium and magnesium correspond to the authorised health claims in accordance with EU Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.