Stress and Hormones
When facing a stressful situation the last thing your body wants to do is procreate.
Under stress Your body sends over 2 signals to STOP a possible pregnancy and hence disrupt your period. Symptoms of this signal being active present as PMS, no period or irregular period, infertility, etc.
When facing a stressful situation the last thing your body wants to do is procreate.
Under stress Your body sends over 2 signals to STOP a possible pregnancy and hence disrupt your period. Symptoms of this signal being active present as PMS, no period or irregular period, infertility, etc
- High cortisol brought on by stress dampens the GnRH secretion, which is responsible for triggering the pituitary to release FSH and LH. FSH and LH send the signals to our ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone and govern maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle.
- Similarly to its effect on GnRH, Cortisol also directly inhibits the production of FSH and LH in a further attempt to thwart the chance of ovulation and potential pregnancy.
- As a result, over time the production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone goes a little haywire, thus disrupting the entire menstrual cycle.
Can you see now how ongoing activation of our body’s stress system and higher levels of stress-related hormones are directly linked with anovulatory cycles or irregular ovulation?
This is why it is crucial to screen for stress and regulate it to have a healthy menstrual cycle.
We can regulate stress by teaching coping mechanisms, adding supplements that reduce the impact of stress on this pathway and allow menses to take its course.
Other hormones and conditions can also dysregulate your menstrual cycle such as a thyroid condition, gut condition, sugar imbalances, etc.
Dr. Aisha is passionate about helping women conquer their stress by optimizing their hormones to feel their best. She treats using Comprehensive Lab testing, Supplementation, Diet and Lifestyle counselling. Book an appointment today!