Hormones

Links to our information partners' articles about hormones.

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Follicle stimulating hormone

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It is an important hormone for normal functioning of the reproductive system in men and women.

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Human growth hormone

Human growth hormone is a small protein that travels in the bloodstream to stimulate growth. Learn more about the medical uses of human growth hormone.

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Pituitary hormones

Links to trusted information about pituitary hormones.

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Hormonal system

The hormonal system influences your metabolism, growth and many other functions. Learn more about what it is and conditions related to the hormonal system.

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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the name for a number of hormone therapies that can be used to treat the symptoms of menopause.

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Endocrine glands and their hormones

The hormone system is the way in which one part of the body tells another part of the body to do something important. Find out more about different parts of the hormonal system.

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Hormonal medicines and periods

Some forms of hormonal contraception (for example the oral contraceptive pill, IUD coil, and injection) may affect your menstrual cycle.

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Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Learn about the symptoms, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.

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Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone that makes you feel love and trust. Understand the role of oxytocin and find out if you can adjust the levels of this hormone in your body.

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Adrenal glands

The adrenal glands are two endocrine glands sitting on top of each kidney. They form part of the body's hormonal system. They produce several hormones that are involved in controlling your blood pressure, metabolism and your body's response to stress.

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Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland makes different hormones, some that have direct effects on the body and others that control other endocrine glands.

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Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD)

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective and reliable method of contraception. The two types available are the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD.

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Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia affects the hormones. People with the condition will have health problems, but might still enjoy a normal lifestyle.

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects up to 1 in 10 girls and women in their reproductive years.

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Turner syndrome

This genetic disorder involves sensory, developmental and hormonal symptoms, but most girls and women with Turner syndrome enjoy a normal life.

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Graves' disease

This condition causes the thyroid gland in the neck to produce too much thyroid hormone, and can eventually lead to goitre and bulging eyes.

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Female reproductive system

The female reproductive system involves organs such as the uterus (womb), ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina, as well as hormones.

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Contraceptive injection

The contraceptive injection, containing a synthetic version of the hormone progestogen, lasts up to 3 months. It is given into your buttock or upper arm.

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Contraceptive vaginal ring

The vaginal ring is an effective hormonal contraceptive method that works in the same way as the pill. It can also help control your periods.

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Morning sickness

Morning sickness or nausea (with or without vomiting) is a common symptom of early pregnancy and is caused by changes in hormones.

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hCG levels

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that can be detected in your urine and blood when you're pregnant.

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Mini pill (progestogen-only pill)

The 'mini pill' is a type of contraceptive. It contains only one hormone and you can use it while breastfeeding.

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Hashimoto's disease

Hashimoto's disease can cause your body to produce too little thyroid hormone. Find out more about its causes, symptoms and treatment.

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Thyroid function tests

Thyroid function tests are used to check for a number of thyroid problems. The tests usually include thyroid stimulating hormones (THSs) T4 and T3.

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Oestrogen

Oestrogen, a female sex hormone with many roles, controls puberty, strengthens bones and more. But too much or too little can cause medical problems.

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Cushing's syndrome

Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder with a wide range of symptoms. Learn about its causes here, as well as why Cushing’s syndrome is difficult to diagnose.

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What is an endocrinologist?

Endocrinologist is a specialist who treats people with conditions caused by problems with hormones. Learn how to find an endocrinologist and what to ask before your appointment.

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Testosterone blood test

A testosterone blood test can show how much of the sex hormone testosterone is in your body. Men usually have more testosterone than women.

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Intersex variation

‘Intersex’ refers to physical, hormonal or chromosomal differences that don’t fit the typical male or female body. They occur in about 1 in every 100 births.

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