Female hormones are the most important substances that largely determine the functioning of the menstrual cycle, reproductive abilities and overall he alth. Each of them has a name and features. Now we will talk about them, and we will also talk about the norm, symptoms of a lack of hormones and an increase in their level.
Estradiol
This is the name of the main, most active female hormone, belonging to the estrogen subclass, which is produced by the ovarian follicular apparatus.
The greatest amount of estradiol is produced by the adrenal cortex (paired endocrine glands). It is a steroid hormone, and this origin indicates its high biological activity.
The main function of estradiol is to ensure the active growth of tissue covering the uterus from the inside, as well as to increase blood flow.
The concentration of estradiol in the blood is not constant. It decreases with age. It is important to make a reservation that estradiol is also present in the male body. It is important for men, its lack leads to the development of persistentinfertility.
Why is estradiol in the body?
Each female estrogen hormone has a huge list of features that determine its benefits for the body. And here are the processes in which estradiol is involved:
- It ensures the proper formation of the woman's genitals.
- Normalizes and regulates the menstrual cycle.
- Affects the formation of secondary sexual characteristics that appear in adolescence.
- Participates in the formation of the egg.
- Affects the enlargement of the uterus that occurs during the period when the fetus is developing.
- Participates in the formation of sexual behavior. It influences this factor at the psychophysiological level.
- Delays the excretion of water and sodium from the body.
- Activates bone renewal.
- Promotes the elimination of cholesterol.
- Increases blood clotting.
- Prevents the formation of blood clots, as it reduces the level of fat content in the blood.
- Good for sleep.
- Strengthens the heart muscle.
- Improves the absorption of substances such as zinc, potassium, magnesium, copper, iron and thyroxine.
As you can see, this female sex hormone is extremely important for the full functioning of the body. If the doctor fixes its deficiency, then the patient is prescribed a course of medications containing an artificial or natural analogue of estradiol.
Also, with insufficient production of estradiol, it is recommended to use foods that containcontaining phytoestrogens. Among them:
- Beans, lentils, peas and beans.
- Soya.
- Grain, flaxseed, barley and wheat.
- Vegetables: cucumbers, beets, potatoes, peppers, pumpkins, carrots, eggplants.
- Fruits: plums, apples, pomegranate.
- Olive oil and yeast.
But none of the above is recommended if you have individual intolerance or contraindications.
Norms, causes of deviations and symptoms
The concentration of estradiol in a he althy girl can vary from 225 pg/ml to 475 pg/ml. The norm of the female hormone depends on a lot of factors, including age, phase of the menstrual cycle, dietary habits, exposure to stress, etc.
Lack of estradiol, as a rule, occurs for the following reasons:
- Inflammation and diseases of the reproductive organs.
- Dysfunction of the endocrine system and pituitary gland.
- Delayed puberty.
- Excessive exercise.
- Badly balanced diet. These include high carbohydrate diets, raw food, veganism, overeating.
- Dramatic weight loss or, conversely, intense weight gain.
- Addiction to alcohol and smoking.
- Drugs used in chemotherapy.
- Use of inappropriate oral contraceptives.
- During pregnancy - dysfunction of the placenta, the threat of premature birth or miscarriage.
A number of reasons may indicate that in the bodygirls lack the female hormone. What exactly? The most notable include:
- Dryness and reduced skin elasticity.
- Losing hair. In rare cases, hirsutism (that is, male pattern hair).
- Swelling of the extremities.
- Irregular menstrual cycle.
- Mood swings and irritability.
- Decreased sex drive.
- Persistent fatigue.
- Chest pain.
- Insomnia.
In any case, the level of estradiol can only be determined through the analysis of venous biomaterial. Before his fence, a woman will not be able to smoke, drink alcohol, exert herself physically, have sex, be nervous and drink medications. It is desirable to take the analysis on the 5th day of the cycle, and the control blood sampling on the 20th day. However, the doctor will tell you everything more precisely.
Estriol
This is an inactive female hormone, also related to estrogen. Its synthesis begins only after fertilization. This happens under the influence of chorionic gonadotropin, the level of which is constantly increasing during pregnancy.
Estriol affects the uterus and, accordingly, the fetus. It stimulates its growth and development, activates energy metabolism and enzyme systems, regulates biochemical processes, improves blood flow.
Before the fourth week of pregnancy, the content of estriol does not exceed 1.4 nmol / l. But then the level increases. At the end of the term, it can reach over 106 nmol / l.
Estron
Its other name is folliculin. The third hormone related to estrogen. It is 5 times less active than estradiol. But this does not diminish its importance. Moreover, in peripheral tissues and in the liver, the notorious estradiol is converted into estrone. On the contrary, too.
If we talk about properties, then here are the processes involved in estrone:
- Stimulation of cell division of the inner lining of the uterus.
- Cycle normalization.
- Glucose adjustment.
It is worth noting that estrone is prescribed as a drug for insufficient ovarian function. These include infertility, underdevelopment of the genitals, uterine dysfunction, irregular or absent periods, and menopausal disorders.
Progesterone
This is a typical female sex "pregnancy hormone". It's really called that. Progesterone also has a chemical origin. Interestingly, it is synthesized from cholesterol.
If it is not enough in the female body, then the fetal egg simply cannot join the uterus. And the fertilized egg will be rejected by the uterus as it continues to contract. It is progesterone that “stops” it and contributes to its increase in size.
It should also be noted that this hormone prepares the female breast for the process of milk production. The rest of its properties include:
- Appetite Stimulation.
- Regulation of the general hormonal background.
- Relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the intestinal tract. This helps the stomach to fully absorb the nutrients that come with food.
- Normalization of the emotional and mental state.
- Regulation of fat reserves.
- Positive effect on muscle building, fast recovery.
Interestingly, in combination with other hormones, progesterone gives a contraceptive effect, so it is used in the manufacture of oral contraceptives.
According to doctors, this hormone is not contained in products. However, other sources claim that it is found in olives, raspberries, red bell peppers, avocados, raw nuts, seeds, seeds, fish oil, and tuna.
Norms and lack of progesterone
Progesterone is a female hormone, the indicators of which are in dynamic balance throughout a girl's life. This can be denoted as follows:
- The first phase of the cycle. The maximum normal rate is 3.6 nmol/L.
- Ovulation days. From 1.52 to 5.4 nmol/L.
- The period of the cycle from ovulation to menstruation. From 3.01 to 88.8 nmol/L.
- Postmenopause. Typically, the maximum is 0.64 nmol/L.
By the way, if any female hormone goes off scale during pregnancy, it's progesterone. In the third trimester, its rate may be over 770 nmol / l.
Deviations from the norm occur both up and down. They usually happen for the following reasons:
- Endocrinepathology.
- Unnutrition or strict diets.
- Luteal phase deficiency.
- Strict diets.
- Endometriosis or fibroids.
Lack of progesterone is manifested in PMS, difficult conception, changeable mood. But its excess is indicated by excess weight, chronic skin problems (acne and pimples that cannot be removed), swelling, depression and blood pressure surges.
In any case, most conditions are amenable to so-called drug correction. So do not be afraid to consult a doctor. It will only be necessary to undergo an examination, take an analysis of female hormones and receive recommendations.
Oxytocin
This is the name of the female hormone of the posterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the smooth muscles of the uterus, increases contractile activity and, to a certain extent, the tone of the myometrium. The rate of free oxytocin varies from 0.8 to 2.2 ng/ml.
It is also called the “hormone of tenderness”. It is believed that it is sentimentality and sensitivity that indicates precisely an excess of oxytocin. And also increased tearfulness and obsession. The peak of its concentration falls on the postpartum period.
In general, this is a neurotransmitter hormone. It has a direct impact on the psycho-emotional sphere and social behavior. And here's what can be the cause of a lack of female hormone:
- Menopause (natural or surgical).
- Prolonged stress and depression.
- Fibromyalgia.
- Deterioration of the thyroid gland.
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Permanent loneliness.
- Schizophrenia.
- Autism.
The best source of the female hormone called oxytocin is hugs, kisses, gentle touches and sex. But it is also believed that its level can be increased by eating dates, avocados and bananas.
Testosterone
Yes, it's an androgen, not an estrogen. However, it must be mentioned when talking about how to increase female hormones. Because in the body of every girl, testosterone plays a crucial role. Namely:
- Positively affects the condition of bone and muscle tissue.
- Maintains tone. When testosterone is normal, the girl always feels cheerful and does not face fatigue and overwork.
- Significantly increases libido and desire by activating the sexual receptors.
- Produces a feeling of satisfaction and uplifting.
- Improves memory, increases concentration.
For girls, the norm of this hormone is from 0.31 to 3.79 nmol/l. But it happens that it is exceeded. As a rule, this phenomenon is accompanied by symptoms of a lack of estrogens - female hormones.
Why can testosterone be exceeded? As a rule, this is due to its excessive production by the genitals. Or the use of some drugs.
Symptoms indicating this include insomnia, nightmares, increased appetite and sexual aggression. More often, an excess of testosterone in girls is accompanied by a sharphair loss, acne, increased hair growth, as well as pain in the lumbar region and ovaries. Lack is indicated by decreased libido.
It is believed that its production is promoted by the active consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits, seafood, cereals, nuts and herbs. But in general, a girl should consult a doctor for advice on normalizing testosterone levels.
Thyroxine
When she decides to take a blood test for female hormones, the girl will see this name in the results. In simple terms, thyroxine is responsible for the figure and mind, and also regulates metabolic processes. Its content ranges from 62 to 141 nmol/l. The more optimal the concentration, the better the girl's figure and skin. You can find out about its lack by the following symptoms:
- Skin begins to peel off.
- The tone disappears, it is replaced by drowsiness, lethargy and fatigue.
- Nails and hair become brittle.
- Pressure drops.
- Swelling appears on the face, and on the cheeks - an unhe althy blush.
The lack of thyroxin is treated simply. This is helped by taking drugs with thyroxine substitutes and a high content of iodine.
An excess of the hormone is indicated by other signs. Namely:
- Increased metabolism. As a result: abnormal thinness and increased appetite.
- Diarrhea.
- Sweating.
- Nervousness.
- High heart rate.
Reducing the production of thyroxine helps not only drugs prescribed by a doctor,but also diet. The girl needs to limit herself in the consumption of iodine-containing products (milk, seafood, eggs, fish, etc.).
Somatropin
It is conditionally called the hormone of harmony and beauty. It is special in that it is produced only during sleep. Therefore, in order not to suffer from excess weight and avoid premature aging, you need to get enough sleep. Its production is enhanced by:
- He althy sleep.
- Glucose deficiency.
- Moderate exercise.
- Polypeptide and male hormones.
What are the symptoms of female hormone deficiency? The most notable include:
- Predominance of fat mass over muscle mass.
- Bone fragility.
- Psychological problems and depression.
- Impaired cardiac function.
- Weakening of emotional reactions.
Usually, the level of somatropin is adjusted by normal sleep and control of the amount of sugary foods consumed. There are drugs that increase its production, but they are prescribed for pituitary adenoma, and they are not sold without a prescription.
Consequences of hormonal failure
Finally, I would like to say that the content of all of the above substances cannot be the same for all girls. But it should be optimal for each, depending on the characteristics of her body. If you do not pay attention to the hormonal failure, and do not start to correct the situation, then in the future this can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Miscarriages and infertility.
- Polycystic ovaries
- Fibrocystic formations in the mammary glands.
- Asthma.
- Uterine fibroids.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Malignant tumors.
- Heart attack.
- Atherosclerosis.
- Stroke.
The doctor will quickly determine the cause and prescribe therapy. Before that, of course, you will need to donate blood for a general and hormonal analysis, undergo an ultrasound scan, and be checked for STDs. You may have to go to the gynecologist and endocrinologist.
Treatment is usually prescribed with artificial or natural hormones, homeopathic remedies and neuroleptics.
