hormone health can come with a lot of unfamiliar terminology. this glossary defines some of the most common terms you'll encounter across our content, in plain, accurate language.
hormones
- oestrogen — a group of hormones, mainly produced by the ovaries, that plays a central role in the menstrual cycle and reproductive health.
- progesterone — a hormone produced mainly after ovulation, which helps prepare the body for a possible pregnancy and supports the luteal phase.
- testosterone — an androgen hormone present in smaller amounts in women, contributing to energy, mood and libido.
- follicle-stimulating hormone (fsh) — a hormone that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles during the menstrual cycle.
- luteinising hormone (lh) — a hormone that triggers ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary.
- cortisol — often called a stress hormone, released by the adrenal glands, which can interact with reproductive hormones.
- prolactin — a hormone best known for its role in milk production, which can also affect the menstrual cycle.
the menstrual cycle
- follicular phase — the first part of the cycle, from the first day of a period until ovulation.
- ovulation — the release of an egg from the ovary, usually around the midpoint of the cycle.
- luteal phase — the second part of the cycle, after ovulation until the next period begins.
- menstruation — the shedding of the uterine lining, experienced as a period.
common conditions and terms
- pms (premenstrual syndrome) — a pattern of physical and emotional symptoms occurring before a period.
- pmdd (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) — a more severe form of premenstrual symptoms that significantly affects daily life, requiring medical assessment.
- pcos (polycystic ovary syndrome) — a common hormonal condition that can affect ovulation, periods and metabolism.
- perimenopause — the transitional period leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating hormone levels.
- menopause — defined as twelve consecutive months without a period, marking the end of natural fertility.
nutrition terms
- lignans — naturally occurring plant compounds, found in high amounts in flaxseed, studied for their interaction with oestrogen metabolism.
- phytoestrogens — plant-derived compounds that can weakly interact with oestrogen receptors in the body.
- omega-3 fatty acids — a type of healthy fat, found in flaxseed among other sources, linked to general cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory health.
research terms
- randomised controlled trial — a study design in which participants are randomly assigned to a treatment or control group.
- observational study — a study that observes outcomes without assigning a specific intervention.
- systematic review — a study that combines and evaluates results from multiple existing studies on a topic.
we will keep adding to this glossary as our content grows.