6 Things Every Woman Should Know About Hormone Health, From An OB-GYN

In the recent mindbodygreen podcast, King breaks down everything you should know about your hormones—whether you’re thinking about fertility, dealing with PMS, or preparing for menopause. Our recent conversation explores what’s really going on with your body and how you can become your own health advocate. 

King believes it’s time to change that narrative. She stresses the importance of getting better data about how women’s hormones change throughout different life stages—whether that’s puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. And the key takeaway: the earlier you learn about how hormones affect your body, the more empowered you’ll be to navigate these changes when they come.

Take periods, for example. You might assume your cycle should be the same every month, but in reality, it can vary, and that’s okay! However, if something feels way off, like abnormally heavy bleeding or unbearable cramps, that’s when you should check in with your doctor. Understanding your own baseline and learning to spot what’s normal for you is key to managing these changes.

King’s advice? Stop apologizing and start speaking up! "You have a voice, use it. This is your body, and you get one life," she says. Whether it’s about your period, birth control, or menopause, asking questions is your right. Preparing a list of questions before your appointment and bringing a friend for moral support can go a long way. King also emphasizes the importance of finding a doctor you trust—someone who listens and makes you feel heard. And if you don’t feel like your doctor is the best fit for you? It’s totally okay to find someone else. Building a solid relationship with your healthcare provider should feel like a team effort.

When it comes to menopause, King defines it simply: one year without a period, usually around age 51. You don’t need a lab test to tell you if you’re in menopause—your symptoms and age will give you the answers. And don’t be afraid to talk to the women in your family about their experience with menopause—it can give you valuable insight into your own timeline!

King stresses the importance of realistic conversations around fertility. If you’ve been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if you’re over 35) without success, it might be time to see a fertility specialist. And don’t forget—men account for about 30% of fertility issues, so they should be tested, too. It’s not just a “woman’s problem.” Whether it’s egg freezing, IVF, or sperm donation, there are so many options for couples who need a little help conceiving. And again, it all comes down to education—knowing your options helps you make informed decisions.

But for now, using these tools to monitor symptoms can help you stay on top of your hormone health, whether you’re tracking your period or navigating menopause. Plus, the data can be helpful when you’re talking with your doctor about how you’re feeling—and what you can do to feel even better.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.