Understanding Hormones

Understanding Hormones 

Not long ago, a 13-year-old girl named Areeba walked into my clinic. She looked thoughtful, a little nervous, and clearly curious. As she sat down, I asked her gently,

“How can I help you today?”

She took a deep breath and said,

“I don’t know what’s happening to me. My moods are all over the place, my body feels different, and sometimes I just feel… weird. Is something wrong with me?”

I smiled. I had heard similar concerns from many teens before her. And I knew exactly what she was going through.

Areeba’s Questions Were Honest — And Important

Areeba, like millions of other teenagers, was experiencing the powerful (and sometimes confusing) effects of hormones. And she had taken a brave step by asking for help and clarity instead of silently struggling. That’s why I decided to explain everything to her—from the basics to the biology.

What Are Hormones, Anyway?

I told her, “Hormones are chemical messengers. They are made by glands in your body—like the pituitary gland, ovaries, thyroid, and many others—and they travel through your blood, telling different parts of your body what to do.”

These messengers control everything from how tall we grow to when we feel hungry, sleepy, sad, or excited. They are especially active during puberty—which is exactly what Areeba was going through.

What Happens During Puberty

Puberty is like a turning point in a young person’s life. In girls, it usually starts between ages 8 and 13. During this time, the body begins to mature and prepare for adulthood and fertility.

I explained to Areeba how several key hormones were now shaping her development:

• Estrogen – the main female sex hormone, responsible for breast development, widening of the hips, and the beginning of the menstrual cycle.
  
  
• Progesterone – works with estrogen to regulate her breast development and monthly periods.
  
  
• Growth Hormone – helps with height, stronger bones, and muscle development.
  
  
• Testosterone – yes, girls have it too! In small amounts, it supports bone strength and mood balance.
  
  
• Thyroid Hormones – manage metabolism and energy levels.
  
  

These hormones don’t just change the body physically; they also affect emotions, thoughts, and energy. It’s no surprise that teenagers often feel like they’re on an emotional rollercoaster.

What I Told Areeba About Her Feelings and Changes

I reassured her:

“Nothing is wrong with you. You’re growing, and your body is simply responding to the natural surge in hormones.”

Here’s what I shared about what she might be experiencing:

• Mood Swings – caused by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone.
  
  
• Acne – due to increased oil production in the skin in response to these hormones.
  
  
• Period Irregularities – completely normal(upto 45 days cycle) in the first 5-6 years.
  
  
• Sleep Disruption – a shift in melatonin levels can make teens feel more awake at night.
  
  
• Appetite Changes – hormonal shifts can increase hunger or lead to cravings.
  
  

I also emphasized the importance of healthy habits—like regular sleep, balanced meals, hydration, and exercise—which help the body regulate hormones naturally.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Hormonal changes are a part of life, but sometimes things don’t balance out on their own. I advised Areeba to look out for the following signs that could suggest a hormonal imbalance:

• Extremely irregular (more than 45 days) or absent periods till15 years old.
  
  
• Severe acne that doesn’t improve with basic skincare
  
  
• Unusual hair growth (on the face or body)
  
  
• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
  
  
• Constant fatigue, anxiety, or depression
  
  

In such cases, we can run simple blood tests to understand hormone levels and provide solutions—often through medication, lifestyle changes, or further medical guidance.

Areeba’s Transformation — from Confused to Confident

By the end of our session, I saw the worry lift from Areeba’s face. She smiled, more at ease, and said,

“I thought something was wrong with me. But now I get it—my body’s just growing up.”

I nodded. “Exactly. And now you know how to work with it instead of being scared of it.”

My Message to Every Teen Girl Reading This

If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or “different,” please know—you’re not alone. Your body is changing because it’s growing, learning, and preparing you for a new phase of life. That’s the magic of hormones.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Talk to a doctor. Trust your body. And remember, it’s okay to feel confused—but it’s powerful to seek understanding.

With care and knowledge,

Dr. Iffat

Hormone Specialist

Consultant, 

Jahurul Islam Medical College & Hospital