The Secret Life of Hormones

When women start menopause and stop having periods, it’s a dramatic change in hormone levels. And it marks the end of their ability to have children. Men don't have such an abrupt shift in hormone levels, and they can still make sperm. Testosterone levels drop slowly. And as that happens, men may have weight gain, a lack of energy, and less interest in sex.

Two different hormones play big roles in your appetite. One is called ghrelin, and it sends your body the message that it's time to eat. Another called leptin tells you you’re full. Scientists are studying them to learn more about their role in weight loss and obesity.

Testosterone is sometimes called the "male hormone,” but women’s bodies make it too, just less than men. The hormone helps guys get facial and body hair, a deeper voice, and sperm. For women, testosterone seems to play a key role in sex drive.

Your thyroid makes hormones that help control your metabolism -- how fast your body turns food into nutrients and energy. When the gland doesn’t make enough of these hormones, that’s called hypothyroidism. A symptom of it is unexplained weight gain. You’ll need to see a doctor for treatment.

A woman’s levels of estrogen and another hormone called progesterone dip way down right before she gets her period. For some women, that drop can trigger migraine headaches.

Many teens get pimples as their hormones rise during puberty. When hormone levels go up, the skin makes more oil. And if oil gets trapped in your pores, it can cause acne. The hormones also cause more bacteria on the skin that can lead to acne. For women, the shift in hormone levels before a period can be a factor. Some women find they have less breakouts when taking birth control pills.

The hormone melatonin lets your body know it’s the right time to catch some ZZZs. You can sleep without it, but people rest better when their bodies are making more of it. Some people who have trouble sleeping or work odd hours take melatonin supplements to help.

If you’re looking for the Fountain of Youth, you won’t find it in a bottle. Your body makes HGH, and the FDA has approved lab-made prescription versions of it for children who aren’t growing enough, and for adults who lack growth hormone. But it's not OK for general use. The supplements aren’t regulated, and there’s no proof taking them will make you look or feel younger.

When love is in the air, oxytocin is working in the body. It’s released when we hug or cuddle, and it’s linked to the bonding between mates, and mother and child. It also helps mothers with labor and breastfeeding.