The branch of medicine and biology that studies hormones and the glands that produce them.
From *endocrine* ('secreting internally') and *-logy* ('study of'). *Endocrine* comes from Greek *endon* ('within') and *krinein* ('to separate, secrete'). So endocrinology is the study of what the body secretly releases inside itself.
Endocrinology is about the body’s chemical messaging system—tiny drops of hormones that quietly steer mood, growth, energy, and more. Your personality, sleep, stress, and even hunger are partly stories written in hormone ink.
Endocrinology has often been used to pathologize women’s bodies and emotions, with hormones cited to justify stereotypes or discriminatory policies. Research on women’s and intersex people’s endocrine health has historically been underfunded or framed through male norms.
Use precise, non-stereotyping language about hormones across all genders, and avoid implying that hormonal changes make any gender irrational or inferior.
Acknowledge contributions of women endocrinologists and researchers, and the activism of women and trans communities that pushed for better endocrine care and research.
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