In this episode Amanda Jones of Elevated Health walks through the key reproductive hormones women experience during their reproductive years and explains what each hormone commonly does for mood, energy, sleep, bone and vaginal health. She gives an easy 28-day cycle overview (follicular, ovulation, luteal) and describes typical symptoms people may feel at each phase, why symptoms can appear before labs change, and what normal versus abnormal bleeding and cramping look like. The episode defines PMS versus PMDD, lists red flags that warrant medical evaluation (heavy bleeding, severe pain, long or irregular cycles, new acne or hair loss, lack of ovulation), and explains when conditions like PCOS or endometriosis may require further testing. Amanda outlines practical testing to ask your provider for—estradiol, testosterone, DHEA, LH and FSH—and emphasizes foundational treatment steps first: nutrition, exercise, sleep, supplementation, and targeted hormone support when needed. She discusses the hormonal shifts that can begin in your 30s and 40s during perimenopause, why baseline testing is helpful, and common myths about birth control and testosterone. Finally, the episode encourages self-advocacy with health providers, open conversations with family about the cycle, and steps to seek help when symptoms are severe or worsening. Cycle PDF   Hormone Cycle Chart