When we talk about oestrogen, progesterone, or testosterone, people often think in binaries—female hormones vs male hormones.

But here’s the truth: hormones have no gender.

A definition that shifts the lens

Every human body—regardless of sex, gender identity, or reproductive status—produces and relies on a blend of oestrogens, progesterone, and androgens. These are not “female” or “male” hormones. They are human hormones, and collectively they play critical roles in all 11 organ systems of the body.

Let’s take estradiol, the most biologically active form of oestrogen. First identified 85 years ago, it’s often reduced to its role in menstruation, fertility, and menopause. But estradiol does far more than regulate the menstrual cycle. It supports:

• Brain development and cognition

• Bone density

• Cardiovascular health

• Immune function

• Skin elasticity

• Gut integrity

• Emotional resilience

• And more

The same is true for testosterone and progesterone—each with wide-reaching effects beyond reproduction.

This matters because gendered assumptions about hormones have shaped decades of healthcare. If a hormone is seen as “female,” it’s often overlooked or poorly studied. If it’s seen as “male,” its effects in other bodies may be ignored.

We all have all the hormones

—just in different ratios, rhythms, and stages. And when those rhythms shift—during puberty, perimenopause, postmenopause, andropause, or gender-affirming care—it affects the whole body, not just reproductive function.

So what does “hormones have no gender” really mean?

• It means we need to stop defining hormones by stereotypes and start understanding them by their biological actions.

• It means we expand health education to reflect the whole-body impact of hormones—for everyone.

At The Menopause School, this principle sits at the core of how we teach and talk about hormonal health. Because when we understand hormones beyond reproduction, we unlock better care, deeper body literacy, and more inclusive conversations.

Estradiol isn't just for periods. Testosterone isn’t just for libido. Hormones are for life. And they belong to us all.