The female body is home to more than 50 known hormones overall, according to a July 2024 explainer from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS). There is no exact number of "female hormones" because most hormones are present in females and males. DHEA is one adrenal hormone on that wider list that is also sold over the counter, and DHEA supplement listings on Amazon show the doses the retail form comes in.
The term usually refers to hormones involved in the female reproductive system. Key examples include:
| Hormone or hormone group | Main role |
|---|---|
| Estrogens, including estradiol | Support puberty, menstrual cycles, bone health and reproductive development |
| Progesterone | Helps regulate the menstrual cycle and support pregnancy |
| Testosterone | Supports sex drive, muscle and bone health, and ovarian function |
| Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) | Helps ovarian follicles develop |
| Luteinizing hormone (LH) | Triggers ovulation and supports ovarian hormone production |
| Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) | Signals the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH |
| Prolactin | Supports breast development and milk production |
| Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) | Reflects ovarian follicle activity and has a role in reproductive development |
| Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) | Is produced during pregnancy and detected by pregnancy tests |
The hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries coordinate many of these hormones. Together, they help regulate puberty, ovulation, menstruation, fertility and pregnancy.
Are Estrogen and Progesterone the Only Female Hormones?
No. Estrogen and progesterone are the best-known female reproductive hormones, but they are only part of the picture. Females also produce testosterone, FSH, LH, GnRH, prolactin, AMH and hCG.
The female body also produces hormones that are not specific to reproduction, including insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, growth hormone and melatonin.
Do Hormone Levels Stay the Same?
No. Hormone levels change throughout life and can also vary over shorter periods. Factors that affect them include:
- Age and puberty
- The menstrual cycle
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Menopause
- Certain medications and health conditions
Estrogen and progesterone levels shift during the menstrual cycle and generally decline after menopause.
The Simple Answer
Females have more than 50 known hormones in the body overall. "Female hormones" usually means a group of reproductive hormones, not a separate list with a fixed number.