Hormones important for women

Estrogens are typically female hormones, although they are also important for men. Estrogens are mainly produced by the ovaries. Their primary role is to regulate the menstrual cycle. They cause the endometrium to grow, facilitate fertilization and increase mucus production. Estrogens cause the body to retain water. Estrogen deficiency causes infertility and osteoporosis. Excess is bad for women; may contribute to migraines, weight gain and breast cancer.

Progesterone levels rise in the second phase of the cycle. This hormone is mainly responsible for the maintenance and development of pregnancy. A sharp drop in progesterone levels causes menstrual bleeding. Progesterone inhibits the effect of estrogens. A sharp drop in progesterone levels after delivery may be responsible for postpartum depression.

Oxytocin is produced by a brain structure called the hypothalamus and is stored in the pituitary gland. Oxytocin causes the uterus to contract during labor, but also during orgasm, making it easier to fertilize. It is an important hormone in lactation after birth and facilitates the flow of milk. Recent scientific discoveries show that oxytocin is an important hormone of trust in interpersonal relationships.

Chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is produced by the embryo and placenta during the development of pregnancy. Maintains the production of progesterone. The measurement of hCG concentration is used in pregnancy tests. The presence of this hormone can be detected in the urine in the first days of pregnancy.

Relaxin facilitates childbirth and loosens the ligaments during childbirth. It reduces the strength of uterine contractions.

Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland. This hormone plays an important role during breastfeeding, it enables the production and secretion of milk. Too much prolactin can promote infertility. During lactation, prolactin usually inhibits ovulation. Prolactin along with dopamine is responsible for sexual arousal, after orgasm there is a temporary increase in prolactin secretion.

Tropic hormones control the work of other hormones, they are mainly secreted by the pituitary gland. Tropic hormones regulate the work of the ovaries, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, etc. A typical example of a tropic hormone is LH – a luteinizing hormone that controls the work of the ovaries, the maximum concentration of this hormone causes ovulation.

Insulin is produced by the cells of the pancreas and its concentration increases after a meal, allowing blood glucose levels to drop. Insulin deficiency promotes the development of diabetes. Insulin also directs the metabolism of fats and proteins. It affects the function of the ovaries. Obesity, poor diet or pregnancy cause disturbances in insulin secretion.

Adrenaline is a stress hormone that is released when you feel in danger. It facilitates mobilization and the way out of difficult situations. Adrenaline accelerates the heart rate, raises blood pressure, dilates the bronchi, dilates the pupils, raises blood sugar levels. Adrenaline works to counteract contractions during labor. Prolonged adrenaline secretion as a result of chronic stress or disease has negative effects on the body. Chronic stress promotes heart attacks and strokes, asthma attacks and ovarian cancer.