10/07/2025 4:10 p.m.

So hormotional! Myths and facts about hormones

Sonja Windhager Health Writer

Myth: Only women are hormonal.

Hormones are not just a “women’s thing”, they are part of every human body. While women often experience a cycle that spans several weeks around ovulation and menstruation, men’s hormones follow a 24-hour rhythm with peaks and dips throughout the day. Our cycles may look different, but hormones influence all of us in powerful ways.

Myth: Hormones just make you mad and sad.

We often hear “hormonal” as if it only means irritable, angry, or sad. But hormones are also behind joy, calmness, excitement, creativity, and inspiration. Throughout the menstrual cycle, there are phases where positive emotions feel more accessible and phases where they take a little more effort. Understanding these shifts helps us see hormones as allies in navigating the full spectrum of emotions, not just the difficult ones.

Myth: Hormonal changes are only a teenage thing.

Yes, puberty comes with major hormonal shifts, but it’s far from the only stage of life where hormones play a big role. As an adult, you may notice new waves of hormone sensitivity during pregnancy, postpartum, or perimenopause. Hormones evolve with us through every life stage, shaping both our physical health and emotional well-being.

Myth: Hormonal feelings only happen when you have PMS.

PMS is just one part of the story. Hormonal changes influence us across the entire cycle, during the follicular phase, around ovulation, and even when hormone levels are at their lowest during menstruation. Being hormonal isn’t something to roll your eyes at, it’s a natural, ongoing part of life. So next time someone calls you “hormonal,” remember: that can mean you’re energized, inspired, or joyful too.

FAQs

Do only women experience hormonal cycles?

No. Everyone has hormones. Women typically follow a monthly cycle, while men experience a daily rhythm with peaks and dips.

Can hormones affect me even if I’m not on my period?

Yes! Hormonal shifts happen throughout the entire cycle. During ovulation, follicular phase, and even when levels are lowest in menstruation.

Are hormone changes only relevant in puberty?

Puberty is just the beginning. Hormones play a role throughout life. During pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause.

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