I Was Wrong About Estrogen and Testosterone

Hormone Health
Written By Stacey Harwood

Like many people, I used to think hormones were simple: estrogen for women, and testosterone for men. That belief was shattered when I came off birth control. Suddenly, my cycle did not return like I thought it would, night sweats disrupted my sleep, and I couldn’t get through the day without chugging caffeine. I was confused and felt like a stranger in my own body.

What I didn’t realise was that both estrogen and testosterone were playing a much bigger role in my health than I’d ever understood. These aren’t just “gendered” hormones — they’re essential for so many processes in your body. No matter your age, knowing how these hormones work and when they might be out of balance can change everything in your life.

If you’ve ever wondered what these hormones are doing behind the scenes — or why you’re feeling “off” — I’m here to help.

Estrogen and Testosterone: The Basics

Think of estrogen and testosterone as two essential messengers that help keep your body running smoothly. While they’re often associated with reproduction, their influence on the body and your health extends far, far beyond that.

Estrogen: Your Body’s Multitasker

Estrogen does more than regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle. It’s a powerhouse hormone that impacts:

  1. Reproductive health: Regulates the menstrual cycle and supports fertility.

  2. Bone strength: Protects against bone loss and reduces the risk of fractures.

  3. Skin and hair health: Promotes collagen production for a youthful glow.

  4. Mood and brain function: Influences memory, focus, and emotional resilience.

  5. Heart health: Supports healthy cholesterol levels and circulation.

  6. Metabolism: Helps regulate fat distribution and energy use.

Testosterone: The Overlooked Hormone

Testosterone often flies under the radar for women, but it’s just as critical as estrogen as it helps:

  1. Maintain muscle mass: Supports strength and endurance.

  2. Boost energy: Keeps fatigue at bay.

  3. Enhance mood: Encourages confidence, motivation, and emotional stability.

  4. Support libido (sex drive): Plays a key role in sexual health and function.

  5. Strengthen bones: Protects against bone density loss.

A balance between these two hormones is essential for our overall health, and disruptions in their levels can lead to a range of symptoms.

My Experience with Hormonal Imbalance

I came off birth control because I was curious what life would be like as a naturally cycling woman (it had been over a decade after all), I had no idea how much my hormones would affect and become the centre of my life. The absent cycle, mood swings, and sleep struggles were tough, and I didn’t know where to start (especially in a small country with a struggling healthcare system).

It wasn’t until I learned the signs of hormonal imbalance for both estrogen and testosterone — that things began to become clearer.

Signs of Hormonal Imbalance

Here are the most common signs and symptoms of an imbalance in estrogen and testosterone levels.

This quick hormone health quiz will help you assess whether your hormones might be out of balance and how you can start supporting your hormones today!

Why Hormones Fluctuate

For women, these hormones fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. Most dramatically is estrogen, which naturally rises and falls throughout the:

  • Follicular Phase (Days 1–14): Estrogen gradually rises as your body prepares for ovulation. You may feel energised, clear-headed, and productive (Day 1 is the first day of bleeding).

  • Ovulation (Around Day 14): Estrogen peaks, triggering the release of an egg. Many women report feeling their best during this phase.

  • Luteal Phase (Days 15–28*): Estrogen declines as progesterone takes over. You may notice more bloating, fatigue, or mood changes during this time.

* Sometimes cycles are slightly shorter or longer, they could be anywhere between 25-35 days, whatever is ‘typical’ for you - more on this in future posts.

Estrogen and testosterone also fluctuate for women during life transitions (puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause), and due to diet and lifestyle factors (like coming off birth control). These can cause dramatic shifts in these hormones, leading to symptoms of hormone imbalance.

For men, while not as dramatic as women’s fluctuations, estrogen and testosterone do still fluctuate. They change throughout the day, through age and due to diet and lifestyle factors.

Understanding these fluctuations and changes can help you recognise when something’s not quite right within your body.

When to Seek Help

It’s normal for hormones to fluctuate, but persistent symptoms may signal a deeper issue. I’d encourage you to seek support from your doctor if you experience:

  • Irregular or absent periods for several months.

  • Severe mood swings or emotional instability.

  • Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest or lifestyle changes.

  • Symptoms like vaginal dryness, thinning hair, or unexplained acne.

  • Difficulty managing your weight despite a healthy diet and exercise.

If something feels off, trust your instincts. Hormonal imbalances are more common than you think, and they’re treatable with the right support and recovery plan.

What I Want You to Know

Looking back, I wish I’d understood how much my hormones impacted my health earlier (especially when I was going on the pill at 16). Both estrogen and testosterone are essential for well-being, and recognising the signs of imbalance can help you take agency over your health.

Start small, book that blood test through your doctor, track your symptoms. Your body is incredibly wise, with some knowledge and support, your body will find balance.

With love and balance, my Friends x


P.S. Here are some recommendations if you want to go a bit deeper on some of the topics covered:

Stacey Harwood
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