Do female hormones cause heart palpitations?

Hormonal changes, including those associated with the menstrual cycle and menopause, can indeed affect heart rate and sometimes lead to palpitations in some women. However, it is important to clarify that not all women experience heart palpitations due to hormonal changes, and the occurrence and severity of palpitations can vary among individuals.

Heart palpitations can be a result of various factors, including hormonal fluctuations and underlying medical conditions, so a proper medical evaluation is crucial for determining the exact cause and receiving appropriate treatment or management.

Hormones that may influence heart rate and potentially contribute to heart palpitations include:

Estrogen: Changes in estrogen levels during the menstrual cycle and perimenopause ( the transitional phase leading to menopause) can affect the heart rate. Some women may experience increased heart palpitations during these periods due to estrogen's impact on the autonomic nervous system, which regulates heart rate and blood vessel tone.

Progesterone: Similar to estrogen, changes in progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle can also affect heart rate. Some women may experience fluctuations in heart rate, including occasional palpitations, during the phase of the cycle when progesterone levels are higher, typically in the second half.

Thyroid Hormones: The thyroid gland is also influenced by hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy. An overactive thyroid gland( hyperthyroidism) can cause increased heart palpitations, while an underactive thyroid gland( hypothyroidism) may lead to a slower heart rate.

It's worth mentioning that other factors such as anxiety, stress, caffeine consumption, medications, and underlying heart conditions can also contribute to heart palpitations, regardless of gender. If you are experiencing persistent or bothersome heart palpitations, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.