Hormones
Hormones affect an incredible number of areas of the body—from desire and fertility to mood and sleep to intimacy and bonding. That's why it's worth knowing a little bit about them.
What are hormones?
Hormones are messenger substances produced by the body itself. They travel through the blood and give instructions to cells and organs in the body. Without hormones, almost nothing works: metabolism, growth, emotions, sexuality, desire, and reproduction.
Hormones and sexuality
There are many different hormones. Some of them are particularly important for desire, fertility, and reproduction
Testosterone
considered a "male" hormone. Plays a role in fertility, libido, muscle building, and mood – people with a uterus also have it.
Myth
Men = Testosterone & Women = Estrogen
False
Even if you have a uterus, you still produce testosterone – it affects your libido, mood, and health, for example.
People with a penis also have estrogens – important for bones, blood vessels, and fertility.
Hormones & libido
Hormones aren't everything. Stress, relationship problems, medication, sleep, diet, and exercise also have a strong influence on desire.
Hormones have a major influence on libido
- Estrogen, testosterone & oxytocin (love hormone): can increase desire.
- Cortisol (stress hormone) & prolactin: can reduce desire.
For menstruating people, libido also fluctuates with the menstrual cycle. You can find more information on this topic under the section “menstruation & menstrual cycle”.
Hormones & gender diversity
Hormones are also particularly important for trans* or intersex people – for example, in the context of hormone therapy
Estrogen
e.g.
- Breast growth
- Softer skin
- Body fat redistribution to the hips
Decrease in muscle mass
Testosterone
e.g.
- Deeper voice
- Beard and body hair growth
- Fat redistribution to the abdomen
- Muscle growth
- End of menstruation
When hormones become unbalanced
Sometimes the hormonal balance is disrupted, for example in cases of thyroid disease, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), or PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Typical signs can include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Fatigue, sleep disorders, mood swings
- Skin problems
- Unwanted childlessness
- Menopausal symptoms
If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be a good idea to have your hormone levels checked by a doctor. The first place to call is your general practitioner or gynecologist.