Unveiling the Hormonal Duel

TOP NEWS:
Hormones and Endocrinology

• Brain Cell Discovery Sparks Hope for Fertility Treatments- Researchers have identified how a specific type of neuron in the brain influences the release of hormones controlling ovarian function, potentially aiding in the treatment of reproductive disorders[4].

• Stimulating Nerves Linked to Pancreas Regenerates Insulin-Producing Cells - A study shows that stimulating autonomic nerves connected to the pancreas can regenerate insulin-producing cells, offering promise for diabetes treatment[4].

• Why Puberty Halts Growth - An exploration into why puberty triggers the cessation of growth has been conducted[4].

These cool new findings and progress give us great insights into hormone-related research and how it affects different health conditions.

Citations:
[4] https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/hormone_disorders

MYTHS:
Progesterone and progestin are interchangeable

While both hormones can interact with progesterone receptors in the body, they have distinct differences:

• Progesterone:

  • Natural: Progesterone is naturally produced in the body and has a DNA structure identical to what the body naturally produces.

  • Benefits: It plays a crucial role in reproductive processes, maintains bone density, regulates menstrual cycles, and has various other benefits for the female body.

  • Sources: Produced by the adrenal glands, corpus luteum, and placenta during pregnancy.

• Progestin:

  • Synthetic: Progestin is a synthetic form of progesterone designed to mimic some of its functions.

  • Chemical Structure: While progestins can act similarly to progesterone, their chemical structure differs from natural progesterone.

  • Uses: Commonly used in hormonal birth control methods to prevent pregnancy and treat various reproductive health issues.

HIGHLIGHTS
Progesterone Uncovered:

• Nature's Own: A naturally produced steroid hormone, pivotal for reproductive health.

• Multifaceted Benefits: Essential for menstrual regulation, bone health, mood stability, and supporting overall female wellness.

• Natural Production: Synthesized by the adrenal glands, corpus luteum, and the placenta during pregnancy.

• When Supplementation Becomes Key: Addressing low progesterone levels is critical for correcting menstrual irregularities and mood fluctuations.

Some of the Symptoms of Low Progesterone?

• Irregular menstrual periods

• Headaches

• Difficulty conceiving

• Mood changes, anxiety or depression

• Trouble sleeping

• Hot flashes

• Bloating

• weight gain

• Low libido

• Abnormal uterine bleeding

• Spotting

• Abdominal pain

ASK THE GURU

Two Questions today from readers of the Hormone Beat.

Q: What is the difference between Progesterone and progestin?

A: “Progesterone is the same that your body makes after ovulation, and progestin is synthetic. Now we do have FDA approved bio-identical progesterone that is also made from Mexican yam as part of hormone therapy.

So the best way for me to describe it is think about your key, your valet key that will start your car, but it won't open your glove compartment. So it's a key. It still will work. Hormones work with a lock-in key so progesterone and progestin work differently.

The whole purpose of Progestin is to provide birth control and suppress ovulation. The whole purpose of Progesterone is to support after ovulations pregnancy. So clearly there's been study that show that Progestin has an increased risk of blood clots, also has inflammatory effect on the body and an increase risk of breast cancer where the micronized progesterone did not have the same effect.

So when we're talking about hormone therapy, make sure it's micronized Progesterone and not Progestin.”

Q: Would taking micronized progesterone in the luteal phase prevent the excess of the estrogen and thus the migraine inducing drop?

A: “So normally if we have a patient that has excessive estrogen we do prescribe
micronized progesterone starting on day 15 and taking it until your period starts so what that does is it might balance out that drop in estrogen at ovulation you may need to start it on day 10 a little bit before if you are having a surge in estrogen migraines often will happen the day before your period starts so taking the progesterone does help ease those symptoms if you're taking it during the luteal phase but sometimes migraines are also on day three or day five of your cycle so that might not help but in general progesterone down regulates the estrogen receptor so it's kind of like progesterone is the designated driver in keeping estrogen in check so that could also help overall with your estrogen load.”

The Hormone Guru

Transform Your Life with Threads of Wisdom and Bursts of Laughter!

Embrace your role as the maestro of your hormones... And, rather than just riding the waves, command them with elegance and joy.

It's time to celebrate the orchestration of your internal rhythms, note by joyful note. But how?

• Stay Curious: Dive deeper into "The Hormone Beat" and uncover secrets to master your hormonal harmony.

• Cherish Your Journey: Your path is unique. Embrace it with every burst of laughter and moment of discovery.

• Live Balanced: Discover the bliss of well-tuned hormones. Let your days resonate with the harmony you deserve.

Until we meet again on this vibrant voyage, just remember: Your path to hormonal balance isn't just a journey, it's a celebration. Come join us on this adventure. Let's make every moment count.

Stay inquisitive, cherish your unique journey, and may your days be filled with the balance and bliss of well-tuned hormones.

Until our paths cross again... Keep tuning into The Hormone Beat.