In women, the ovaries produce Oestrogens and Progesterone, in amounts which wax and wane with the menstrual cycle. Their production is under the control of chemicals or hormones called Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinising Hormone. These come from the Pituitary Gland which is in the brain. The job of Oestrogen and Progesterone is to make the womb ready for the arrival of an egg if there is one. They make the lining of the womb thick and full of blood vessels. If there is no egg, the womb lining comes out at the next period.

Many women feel sexier at the time of the egg being made. Others feel sexier at the time of their period.

Women also have small amounts of male hormones, called Androgens. These are made by the adrenal gland and increase sex desire. They are sometimes given for this purpose, under doctor’s prescription. There can be side effects for some people, but there can also be improvements in energy and well-being.