Are You 35+? The Top 5 Hormonal Changes You Need to Know About

Between your mid-thirties and late forties, your body goes through several hormonal changes. Understanding them can help you maintain a balanced perspective 

Let's examine the top 5 changes to be aware of during this phase. 

(The Hormone in Charge of Mood, Skin and More) 

As your body reaches perimenopause (the transition to menopause), estrogen levels start to fluctuate. You need estrogen to keep your reproductive system working, your mood stable, your skin healthy and supple, and even your bones dense. 

When estrogen levels drop, you might notice hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, or even changes in skin, like added wrinkles or dryness. In your mid-thirties or early forty, this change often begins.  

Some women only experience mild symptoms, but these changes are more noticeable for others and can affect their daily lives. 

(The Relaxing Hormone) 

Progesterone, the hormone that helps regulate your menstrual cycle, starts to decline as early as 35. Declining progesterone can lead to insomnia, mood swings, and even heavier or irregular bleeding.  

Progesterone is also the sleep-inducing hormone, the relaxation hormone, so when it drops, many women start to feel insomnia and anxiety and/or just feel restless. 

(And Not Just for Men—Women Want It, Too!) 

Although testosterone is considered a "male hormone," it's equally essential for women. Your testosterone levels start to decline around the mid-thirties. This shift can cause a decline in energy, muscle mass, and libido.  

Women may also find they feel less confident or experience mood fluctuations. Although this is a natural part of aging, it can be annoying when you begin to feel less "like yourself." 

(Your Body's Metabolism Supervisors) 

Your thyroid controls metabolism, energy, and mood. But during your 40s and 50s, as estrogen levels drop, thyroid function can shift, too. This can lead to tiredness, weight changes, and mood swings often mistaken for menopause symptoms. 

Why? Because estrogen affects thyroid cells. So, when estrogen falls, it may throw off your thyroid, making both conditions feel similar. 

Also Read: What Is the Most Common Cause of Unexplained Weight Loss? 

(The Stress Hormone That Impacts Everything) 

Cortisol helps your body manage stress, but during perimenopause, it can become unbalanced. This shift combined with falling estrogen and progesterone can heighten stress, worsen sleep, and leave you feeling exhausted or anxious. 

That's because estrogen usually helps keep cortisol in check. As it declines, cortisol rises more easily, amplifying common menopause symptoms like brain fog, weight gain, and mood swings. 

Stressful days feel even heavier during this phase, and your body's usual coping mechanisms may not work the same way. 

Now that you know how your hormones shift after 35, let's explore how to manage each one. Small, mindful steps can help you feel more balanced, energized, and in control during this phase of life. 

Also Read: Geranylgeraniol (GG) and Testosterone: New Insights from a Groundbreaking Study 

What Can You Do to Restore Hormone Balance After Age 35? 

Here are some simple tips you can adopt to help manage each hormone better. Take a moment to go through them one by one and see what fits your lifestyle. 

Concluding Remarks 

Managing hormonal shifts in your 30s and 40s can be tricky, but awareness is your superpower. These changes are normal; not a life sentence. With the right habits in food, sleep, movement, and stress, you can feel like yourself again.  

Whether you're just starting or deep into this phase, your choices now shape your future well-being. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. You have what it takes to adapt, thrive, and feel good in your skin. You've got this! 

Disclaimer: This information is of a general educational nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You are advised to reach out to your physician for appropriate guidance. 

References