In brief
The ovaries or testes and the hormones they make, including oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone, which shape puberty, fertility and the menstrual cycle.
- Premenstrual syndrome happens because of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, according to healthdirect.
- PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work. In May 2026 it was renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
- Testosterone levels are highest in the morning and fall during the day.
How it works
The ovaries make hormones including oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone, and the testes make sperm and hormones for puberty and reproduction, including testosterone. In the menstrual cycle, changing hormone levels cause the lining of the uterus to thicken and follicles to grow on the ovaries. Ovulation is when a mature egg is released from an ovary.
The average menstrual cycle is 28 days, but everyone's cycle is different. Testosterone is responsible for sexual function, bone health and muscle mass, and it influences mood, energy levels and sex drive.
Connections
6 connections on the map. Select a topic to read its page.
Reproductive system is linked with
PMS happens because of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
Testosterone influences mood, energy levels and sex drive.
Reproductive system is affected by
PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work.
Source: healthdirect Australia, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Menopause is when monthly periods stop, confirmed after 12 months without a period.
Reproductive system is part of
The ovaries and testes are endocrine glands that make hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Source: healthdirect Australia, Endocrine glands and their hormones
Reproductive system supports
Testosterone is responsible for sexual function, bone health and muscle mass.
Lab tests
Medicines and supplements
General education only. Never start, stop or change a medicine without your prescriber.
Sources
- Endocrine glands and their hormones
- The menstrual cycle
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Testosterone
Each connection above names its own source. See every source AskBioMap uses.
Summarised from healthdirect, the Better Health Channel and Pathology Tests Explained. Sources read on 13, 16 and 19 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.