How to Check If You Have a Hormonal Imbalance
Do you constantly feel tired, moody, or just not quite yourself? If you’re a parent of a young child, it’s easy to brush off symptoms like fatigue or brain fog as just part of the parenting package. But what if it’s more than just exhaustion? Hormonal imbalances can affect both physical and emotional well-being, and often go undiagnosed, especially in busy families with young children.
For parents juggling the demands of babies and toddlers, hormonal health might seem like the last thing on the list. But the truth is, when your hormones are off, it can impact your sleep, your weight, your mood, and even how present you feel with your kids. In this article, we’ll explore the signs, testing options, and when it might be time to talk to a doctor. Because taking care of your hormonal health is just as important as looking after your little one’s.
Start With a Hormonal Health Assessment
The first step is often a detailed symptom check. Many doctors use questionnaires to assess hormone-related complaints, but you can also start with a self-assessment. Write down how you feel over a week: energy levels, mood, appetite, sleep, menstrual changes (if applicable), and stress response.
If patterns emerge, share this with your healthcare provider. Depending on the suspected issue, they may recommend blood work or saliva testing. Common hormones tested include estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, insulin, thyroid hormones, and human growth hormone (HGH). Although growth hormone is usually associated with children, adults can experience a deficiency, too, often felt as constant fatigue, low motivation, and increased belly fat.
It’s essential to get expert guidance if growth hormone deficiency is suspected. If you're wondering how to get prescribed HGH, the answer lies in proper diagnosis and consultation with a hormone specialist. Most importantly, don't try to treat yourself — it could be harmful to your health.
Know the Impact of Parenting on Hormones
Caring for young children, especially infants and toddlers, comes with a unique hormonal environment. Sleep deprivation alone can elevate cortisol (the stress hormone) and disrupt insulin regulation. For moms, the postpartum period also brings major shifts in estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and oxytocin — hormones that influence everything from bonding to milk supply to mood.
Fathers, too, can experience hormonal changes. Research suggests that testosterone levels may dip slightly in new dads, possibly as a biological adaptation to increase empathy and reduce aggression. While this can help with parenting, it can also contribute to fatigue or mood swings if the balance goes too far.
Recognising the role of parenting in your hormone health doesn’t mean accepting feeling unwell. It means understanding your body better and giving it the support it needs.
Consider Lab Testing for Hormonal Imbalance
Laboratory testing is the most accurate way to identify a hormonal imbalance. Blood tests are the standard for checking thyroid function, reproductive hormones, and insulin levels. Saliva and urine testing can also be useful, especially for tracking cortisol patterns over a full day.
You don’t need to go through this alone. Ask your GP or family doctor about ordering a hormone panel — many are available through the NHS, especially if your symptoms affect daily function. If you want private testing for faster results, several UK clinics and online services offer hormone panels tailored for women, men, and postpartum recovery.
Early detection can make a huge difference. With the right diagnosis, you can start treatment options — from lifestyle changes to medical therapies — that help you feel like yourself again.
Explore Natural Ways to Support Hormonal Balance
While medical help is important, there are also natural ways to support hormone balance. Start with sleep: even if you can’t get 8 hours, aim for consistent rest when you can, and create a dark, quiet sleeping space. Nutrition also matters — reduce sugar and processed foods, and add more leafy greens, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Physical activity helps too, but it doesn’t need to be intense. Even a daily stroller walk can lower cortisol and boost feel-good hormones like serotonin. Managing stress through mindfulness, breathing exercises, or even five minutes of quiet tea time can also make a surprising difference.
Don’t forget hydration: hormones need a well-hydrated system to function properly. If you're breastfeeding, your fluid needs are even higher. Supporting your body naturally creates a stronger foundation for any medical treatment if needed.
When to Get Medical Help
If your symptoms are persistent, worsening, or interfering with parenting, it’s time to talk to a healthcare professional. Hormonal imbalances can affect not just your health, but your ability to show up for your child with patience and energy. Postpartum depression, anxiety, thyroid disorders, and growth hormone issues are all treatable, but they require recognition first.
Tell your doctor how long symptoms have been going on and how they affect your daily life. It helps to come prepared with notes — when symptoms began, any changes in weight, mood, cycle, or sleep, and your current routines. Don’t downplay what you’re feeling. A good doctor will take you seriously and help you get the answers you need.
Supporting Hormonal Health as a Parent
One of the biggest challenges for parents of young children is finding time for self-care. But supporting your hormonal health doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Small, consistent habits — like eating regular meals, asking for help with childcare to catch up on sleep, and checking in with your mental health — can have a powerful impact.
You’re not being selfish by prioritising your well-being. In fact, the more balanced and energised you are, the better equipped you’ll be to care for your child. Hormones don’t need to be mysterious or overwhelming. With the right knowledge and support, you can take control of your health and feel better, even during the most demanding parenting years.
Final Thoughts
Hormonal imbalance can sneak up on you, especially when you’re busy caring for a young child. It’s easy to blame tiredness, mood swings, or weight changes on stress or lack of sleep, but sometimes there’s a deeper reason.
You know your body best. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor, ask questions, and get the tests you need. Taking care of your health helps you feel better and be more present for your family.