As a leading OB-GYN in Santa Monica, I've dedicated my practice to helping women navigate the complexities of their health, especially when it comes to hormonal imbalances. Hormones are powerful chemical messengers that influence everything from our mood and metabolism to our reproductive health and overall well-being. When these delicate systems are disrupted, the resulting symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life.
Many women dismiss subtle changes in their bodies as just "part of getting older" or stress-related. But ignoring persistent symptoms could mean an underlying hormonal issue is going unaddressed. Early detection and intervention are key to restoring balance and preventing potential long-term health problems. So, what are the red flags that warrant a visit to a hormone specialist like myself?
Common hormonal imbalance red flags:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Your period is often considered a vital sign for women. A healthy cycle should be relatively consistent in length (around 21-35 days) and predictable. Significant changes – like skipped periods, unusually heavy or light bleeding, or cycles that are much shorter or longer than usual – can signal hormonal imbalances such as PCOS, thyroid issues, or perimenopause.
- Unexplained Weight Changes: Rapid weight gain or difficulty losing weight, despite maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, can be linked to hormonal fluctuations. Imbalances in thyroid hormones, cortisol (the stress hormone), and insulin can all contribute to weight disturbances.
- Persistent Fatigue: Feeling exhausted even after getting adequate sleep is not normal. Hormonal imbalances, particularly those involving the thyroid or adrenal glands, can lead to chronic fatigue and a general lack of energy.
- Mood Swings and Anxiety: Hormones play a significant role in regulating mood. Fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones can cause irritability, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
- Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing night sweats can be a sign of hormonal changes, especially during perimenopause and menopause.
- Skin Problems: Hormonal imbalances can manifest as acne breakouts, dry skin, or changes in skin pigmentation. Excess androgens (male hormones) can trigger acne, while estrogen deficiency can contribute to dryness.
- Hair Changes: Sudden hair loss or thinning, particularly on the scalp, can be a sign of hormonal imbalances. Conversely, increased hair growth on the face or body (hirsutism) can also indicate a hormonal issue.
- Fertility Problems: Difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages can often be linked to hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation and implantation.
- Vaginal Dryness and Low Libido: As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, vaginal dryness and decreased sexual desire are common symptoms. However, these issues can also occur at other ages due to hormonal fluctuations or other underlying conditions. My practice offers MonaLisa Touch, a vaginal laser therapy that can help with vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy
- Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: These classic symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are caused by declining estrogen levels.
Why see a specialist?
If you're experiencing any of these red flags, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional specializing in women's health and hormone management. As a leading expert in treating hormone imbalances, I offer a unique holistic, personalized treatment plan which my website highlights. I understand that hormones are complex and intertwining, and a thorough evaluation is required to pinpoint the underlying cause of your symptoms.
My approach to hormone health:
At my Santa Monica practice, I take a comprehensive approach to hormone health that goes beyond simply prescribing medication. I formulate an individualized treatment plan that may involve:
- Thorough Hormone Testing: Identifying specific hormonal imbalances through blood, saliva, or urine testing.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep.
- Targeted Supplements: Recommending specific vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies to support hormone balance.
- Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT): If appropriate, I use bioidentical hormones, which are structurally identical to those produced by your body, to restore hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.
*I was recently honored in a national commercial "Real Heroes" by Naomi Osaka for my work on the Covid-19 frontlines. My awards include Top Ob/Gyn in America - 2020, 2021,2022, 2022, 2023, Los Angeles Top Doctors - 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023... Compassionate Doctor Award -2020, 2021, 2022, 2023.
Don't ignore the signals
Hormonal imbalances can have a significant impact on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Don't dismiss these red flags as just "part of life." Take proactive steps to address your symptoms by consulting with a hormone specialist. Together, we can develop a personalized plan to restore balance and optimize your health.
To schedule a consultation or learn more about my approach to hormone health, please visit my website or contact my Santa Monica office. I look forward to helping you on your journey to optimal well-being!
Author
Shamsah Amersi, MD
