Advocating for the unheard, let's address a significant issue—follicular hormones and their role in the menstrual cycle.
Do you comprehend the endocrine system's role in your monthly cycle? The increasing presence of estrogen in plastics, food, and the environment is linked to earlier cycle initiation and often associated with conditions like ADHD, bipolar disorder, autoimmune disorders, and the development of Endometriosis.
1. **Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):** Originating from the pituitary gland, FSH stimulates ovarian follicle growth and maturation, promoting estrogen production.
2. **Oestrogen:** Primarily produced by developing follicles, estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle, influencing secondary sexual characteristics, and preparing the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.
3. **Luteinizing Hormone (LH):** Also from the pituitary gland, LH triggers ovulation, releasing a mature egg. Post-ovulation, the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum.
4. **Progesterone:** Secreted by the corpus luteum, progesterone readies the uterine lining for embryo implantation and maintains an environment suitable for pregnancy.
These hormones harmonize the menstrual cycle, ensuring proper egg development, and preparing the uterus for pregnancy. Hormonal balance is vital for reproductive health.
Oestrogen dominance, marked by higher estrogen levels, can lead to:
1. **Menstrual Irregularities:** Contributing to irregular or heavy periods.
2. **Breast Tenderness:** Causing discomfort and swelling.
3. **Mood Swings:** Influencing mood and causing irritability.
4. **Weight Gain:** Especially in the hips and thighs.
5. **Insomnia:** Disrupting sleep patterns.
6. **Headaches:** Potentially triggering migraines.
7. **Decreased Libido:** Impacting sexual desire.
8. **Fibroids and Endometriosis:** Associated with their development or exacerbation.
Addressing estrogen dominance involves lifestyle changes and healthcare professional guidance for hormonal therapies or supplements.
Progesterone, crucial in the female reproductive system, contributes to:
1. **Menstrual Cycle Regulation:** With estrogen, it regulates the menstrual cycle, preparing the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.
2. **Uterine Lining Maintenance:** Essential for a fertilized egg to implant and establish pregnancy.
3. **Pregnancy Support:** Continues production during early pregnancy, preventing uterine lining shedding and supporting embryo development.
4. **Preventing Premature Contractions:** Relaxes uterine smooth muscles, preventing premature contractions.
5. **Breast Development:** Contributes to milk-producing gland development.
6. **Mood and Well-being:** Has a calming effect on the central nervous system.
Maintaining oestrogen-progesterone balance is crucial for overall reproductive health.
Endometriosis involves estrogen's role in:
1. **Promotion of Endometrial Growth:** Contributing to tissue growth outside the uterus.
2. **Inflammation:** Estrogen stimulates inflammation, impacting endometriosis progression.
3. **Pain Sensation:** Fluctuations in estrogen levels influence pain perception.
**Treatment Approaches:**
1. **Hormonal Therapies:** Aim to reduce estrogen levels or create an environment minimizing endometrial tissue stimulation.
2. **Surgery:** In severe cases, removal of endometrial implants or the uterus may be considered.
Understanding the oestrogen-endometriosis relationship is crucial for effective management. Collaboration with healthcare professionals ensures a personalized treatment plan addressing individual needs. The lack of progesterone also highlights a major issue.
