Why hormones matter at every age

Estrogen and progesterone do far more than regulate the menstrual cycle. They influence bone density, cardiovascular protection, skin elasticity, mood, and cognition.

Key life stages

  1. Puberty — Cycles begin, often irregular for the first 1–2 years.
  2. Reproductive years — Predictable cycles, peak fertility.
  3. Perimenopause — Often begins in the mid-40s. Cycles become irregular.
  4. Menopause — 12 consecutive months without a period.
  5. Post-menopause — Lower estrogen, higher need for bone and heart screening.

Supportive habits

  • Strength training twice a week for bone and metabolic health.
  • Adequate protein (≈1.0–1.6 g/kg/day).
  • Annual blood pressure, cholesterol and bone density checks after 50.
  • Open conversations with your clinician — no symptom is too small.