With the frequent appearance of a bad mood, deterioration in the condition of hair and skin, women may not suspect that the cause of this is hormonal dysfunction, which requires mandatory medical intervention.

The entire process of human life is directly related to physiological changes characteristic of the hormonal background, which is responsible for the development and decline of the body. Functions regulated by the central nervous system, metabolic processes, as well as the functioning of organs that provide the necessary healthy state depend on it.

Most often, hormonal imbalance in women, after all the studies, manifests itself in menstrual irregularities, which should serve as an alarming signal about trouble in the endocrine system. Although there are other, quite diverse symptoms, and treatment for this reason is prescribed only according to individual indications.

Causes of hormonal disorders

Analyzing the causes of hormonal imbalance in women, it should be noted that there are quite a lot of them.

Insufficient production by the ovaries.
Not balanced diet or improper implementation of a strict diet. A particularly adverse effect on the production of hormones has a deficiency of fiber, as well as a lack of essential mineral elements and vitamins, which can manifest itself with such a diet,
Genetic predisposition. If a hormonal imbalance occurs due to this reason, then a detailed, thorough study of all factors and long-term complex treatment are required.
Obesity. The presence of excess fat directly leads to a weakening of hormonal levels.
Infectious diseases. As a result of various infectious colds, as well as after suffering more severe pathologies of the reproductive system - syphilis, candidiasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and others, disturbances in the endocrine system can occur.
Excessive physical activity. The combination of intense training with a strict diet is especially dangerous.
Disorders that occur in the functioning of certain glands.
Nervous breakdowns.
Chronic lack of sleep.
Lack of rest.
Nicotine and alcohol.
Surgery in the genital or abdominal area.
Abortion.
Taking contraceptive drugs, in structural formula which as an active substance include hormones that can cause negative reaction body in the form of hormonal imbalance.

For the occurrence of hormonal imbalance, the cause may be the complicated course of such important periods in the life of any woman such as puberty, pregnancy, childbirth and, accordingly, menopause. There is no need to be careless if a woman has a breast cyst, uterine fibroid or, since they are one of the obvious reasons explaining why a pathological change occurs endocrine system.

Symptoms

When a hormonal imbalance occurs, the symptoms may be subtle, but a woman needs to know about them in order to go to the hospital in time, where the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis.

Irritability, which occurs due to hormonal imbalance unmotivated aggression, bad mood, anger, pessimistic assessment of reality.
Weight gain while maintaining previous eating habits. Such a reaction of the body to problems in the activity of the endocrine system occurs quite often and you need to understand that no diet can stop the process of obesity.
Among the signs of hormonal imbalance in women, there is deterioration in sleep, expressed in the inability to fall asleep in the evening or in frequent interruptions of sleep in the middle of the night.
Chronic fatigue that cannot be overcome by any methods, including long rest, favorite activities, physical activity, walks, communication, etc.
Decreased sexual desire.
Headaches.

In the case of hormonal imbalance in women, symptoms and signs have individual expressions, so only a doctor can finally understand whether, for example, hair loss and dullness is an expression of this formidable pathological change. Symptoms and treatment are closely interrelated, so the determining factor is the accuracy of the diagnosis.

In what period does it occur?

A woman may experience a disorder in the functioning of the endocrine system at different times. life periods, therefore characteristic symptoms may vary.

Characteristic signs of hormonal imbalance in girls can appear during the period of important hormonal changes during puberty. In case of hormonal imbalance, serious negative consequences can occur. They are expressed in premature or, on the contrary, significant delay in the appearance of the first menstruation, which determines the onset of puberty in a girl.

Also, a growing girl may become overly irritable, experience frequent headaches, suffer from excessive acne, have irregular menstruation. These signs should be a reason for parents to take their daughter to the doctor.

After an abortion

The emerging hormonal imbalance after an abortion has quite clearly defined signs:

weight gain;
unstable pulse;
high blood pressure;
increased sweating;
anxiety.

To maintain hormonal stability, abortions performed on early stages, although they also cause disturbances in the activity of the endocrine system. If normal menstrual cycle does not return to normal after a month, may require medical assistance.

After childbirth

Considering that pregnancy involves global hormonal changes in the female body, careful monitoring of the condition is required during recovery after childbirth. If hormonal balance is not restored by the end of the third month, then we may be talking about a hormonal imbalance. Feeling constant irritability, experiencing dizziness and frequent headaches, insomnia, young mothers tend to consider these temporary phenomena and do not consult a doctor, although all these symptoms, as well as fatigue, excessive sweating, should be wary.

At the onset of menopause

The time of extinction is coming reproductive function is a serious test for a woman’s body. The average age at which irregular periods appear (normally without severe pain and heavy bleeding), indicating an approaching menopause, is considered to be 45 years.

Hormonal imbalance during this period it manifests itself in many women experiencing migraines, problems in the functioning of the cardiovascular system, pressure surges, bad dream, nervous disorders. The main cause is estrogen deficiency. Additional factors that increase negative manifestations are unbalanced nutrition, smoking, lack of physical activity, and stress. Pathological, severe menopause requires medical attention.

Problems of reproductive age

Women who have reached reproductive age may experience a variety of pathological conditions in the event of hormonal imbalance.

PMS - premenstrual syndrome

The most common symptom that allows one to suspect the occurrence of hormonal imbalance is PMS, which is characteristic mainly of age period 30 – 40 years old. Before you understand how to determine its presence, you need to familiarize yourself with the reasons that provoke this condition:

hereditary predisposition;
severe nervous breakdowns;
abortions;
infectious diseases.

A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor even at 35 years old. Also causing PMS are gynecological diseases that are chronic in nature, pathologies of the central nervous system.

Characteristic PMS symptoms arise before the onset of menstruation (several days), reaching a peak on the first day, when bleeding begins, and disappear with the end.

Fatigue, unmotivated irritability, daytime sleepiness, difficulty falling asleep at night.
Nausea, sometimes vomiting, accompanied by severe headache.
Edema.
Unstable blood pressure, flatulence.

You should be alarmed by the appearance of excessive pain in the hardening mammary glands and increased heart rate around the age of 35.

Amenorrhea

This is a condition characterized by prolonged absence of menstruation. Depending on the mechanism of occurrence, there can be several types.

Amenorrhea central genesis as a consequence of physical exhaustion, complicated mental trauma, tumor processes or trauma;
Amenorrhea associated with a disorder of the adrenal cortex.
Amenorrhea caused by ovarian diseases.

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

Such manifestations of hormonal imbalance are often caused by overstrain - mental, physical, nervous, abortion, infectious diseases. There is a danger of the appearance of malignant tumors in the endometrium, and the ability to conceive is reduced. If pregnancy does occur, there is a risk of miscarriage.

Traditional healing methods

When diagnosing a hormonal imbalance, the question of what to do should be asked to a qualified specialist. Only an endocrinologist can prescribe competent treatment appropriate to the identified type of hormonal imbalance. It should be noted that there are several hormone specialists:

endocrinologist - gynecologist whose responsibilities include wide range pathological abnormalities associated with the reproductive system;
pediatric endocrinologist;
a neuroendocrinologist will help solve problems with adrenal gland dysfunction;
A thyroidologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases of the thyroid gland.

Also included in the group of specialists treating hormonal disorders in women is a geneticist, a diabetologist, and an endocrinologist-surgeon.

The prescribed drugs are designed not only to eliminate hormonal imbalance, but also to cure the diseases that caused it. Therefore, first, attention is paid to the second direction, and only then, in accordance with the test results, hormonal levels are restored, which can last a week, months, a year or longer. It all depends on the level of imbalance.

Treatment is usually offered in a comprehensive manner, since not only medications play an important role, but also a balanced diet, physical activity, and a competent regimen.

Folk remedies

To enhance drug treatment, it is useful to consult with a doctor and find out what natural herbal remedies can be used to quickly bring hormonal levels back to normal.

The boron uterus will help normalize estrogen.
Cohosh will support hormonal balance during menopause.
Soybeans regulate estrogen levels.
Licorice root lowers testosterone.
St. John's wort alleviates the pain of menstruation.

In the piggy bank folk wisdom You can find an extensive list of other plants that help alleviate a woman’s condition with hormonal disorders. The principle of their use is the same and consists in strictly following the instructions when purchasing raw materials at the pharmacy.

Prevention of hormonal imbalance

To avoid hormonal imbalance in women, it is advisable to carefully study the reasons leading to this negative condition and prevent their occurrence. There is no need to neglect undergoing regular medical examinations, which allow timely identification of symptoms of trouble in the endocrine system. It is also helpful to closely monitor the regularity of your menstrual cycle.

The combination of hormones in quantitative ratio is called the hormonal background. These substances are produced by endocrine glands; the correct functioning of the most important processes depends on them: metabolism, growth, development of mental abilities.

The ratio of these substances in women determines their well-being, the ability to get pregnant and bear a child, and their mood. When the balance is disturbed, functional changes in organ systems can occur, which is why it is important to know how to normalize hormone levels.

Hormonal levels in women change during different periods of life and every month. Problems arise if there is a dysfunctional disorder in the functioning of, for example, the thyroid gland, or the main center that regulates the activity of the endocrine system - the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. Changes that have begun are sometimes irreversible.

There are periods when changes in the ratio of hormones are a completely normal process.

Changes in hormonal levels in women during the cycle.

The first significant change occurs during the maturation period.
With the onset of intimate relationships, the ratio of hormones also changes.
With the onset of pregnancy, the body hormonally prepares for bearing and giving birth to a child. In the 1st trimester there is a significant increase in progesterone.
After childbirth, the hormone ratio changes again, ensuring the onset of the lactation period.
With age, reproductive function declines, and this again causes changes. The production of the hormone estradiol stops, the concentration of calcitocin and progesterone decreases.
There are also seasonal and monthly fluctuations associated with menstruation, when the quantitative content of estrogen and progesterone changes.

Risk factors

Hormonal levels in women are disrupted due to:

obesity;
infectious diseases;
strict diets leading to sudden weight loss;
systematic consumption of fast food;
long-term use of contraceptives, as well as use according to a regimen that does not comply with the instructions;
hormonal therapy;
stress;
physical activity;
chronic fatigue;
alcohol abuse;
drug use;
abnormal development of endocrine system organs;
poor environmental conditions;
unfavorable climate.

Symptoms and signs of hormonal imbalance

In women, symptoms of the disorder are:

reproductive function: difficulties with pregnancy, anorgasmia, miscarriages, menstrual irregularities, obesity, hypertrichosis, acne;
CNS: fatigue, drowsiness, irritability, depression, mood swings;
metabolism: osteoporosis, obesity.

Here probable reasons these symptoms:

Weight loss, while appetite does not decrease, but also increases, is associated with an increase in the intensity of the thyroid gland. Weight loss is accompanied by insomnia, irritability, sweating, increased body temperature to 37-37.5 degrees, and tremors of the upper extremities.
Obesity is the other side of thyroid dysfunction. The main symptoms include drowsiness, dry skin, weakness, alopecia, and low blood pressure.
The appearance of unwanted hair, as well as its darkening, indicates increased production of the male hormone testosterone. This is caused by dysfunction of the gonads. Additional symptoms There may be a disorder of the monthly cycle, increased oiliness of the skin, along with the appearance of acne and dandruff.
If the adrenal glands, hypothalamus and pituitary gland malfunction, stretch marks can form. This is also accompanied by an increase in body volume, in particular the face, abdomen, neck, the growth of unwanted hair, and a decrease in protective functions body, sexual dysfunction, hypertension.
With intensive production of growth hormone, signs of acromegaly are observed. This is a characteristic deformation lower jaw, cheekbones, which is accompanied by pain in the joints, numbness of the limbs, migraines, and increased fatigue.
A drop in vision levels accompanied by migraines is a likely sign of a neoplasm putting pressure on the pituitary gland.
With diabetes, there is thirst, an increase in the volume of fluid secreted by the body, weakness, a decrease in the regenerative abilities of the skin, and itchy skin.
With hypothyroidism, the skin begins to peel off, becomes rough, memory deteriorates, irritability increases, and reactions become slower. At increased function, that is, hyperthyroidism, the characteristic signs are increased sweating, itching of the skin, the appearance of red spots on the lower extremities.
A deficiency of parathyroid hormone produced by the parathyroid gland results in muscle cramps, migraines and ringing in the ears. When there is an excess of the hormone, disturbances in the functioning of the digestive tract occur, irritability appears, Bad mood, weakness.

During the maturation period, the disorder manifests itself with the following symptoms:

Premature development. Relatively early puberty is a likely consequence of hereditary factors. Too early (before 7-8 years) is a serious disease, in which a tumor of the pituitary gland or ovaries is often diagnosed.
Disruption in the menstrual cycle. Occurs as a result of disruption of the functioning of the main regulatory center and the ovaries, which, in turn, can be caused by excessive stress: both mental, emotional, and physical. Usually, after a long delay in menstruation, a period of prolonged bleeding occurs, which can lead to anemia.
Late first menstruation. As in the first case, hereditary factors can have a decisive influence on this process. There is a possibility of dysfunction of the pituitary gland or ovaries. In addition, delayed puberty can occur with anorexia. The growth of the mammary glands slows down, that is, signs of lag appear physical development By female type.
Subtlety– excessive thinness – affects not only the time of the onset of menstruation, but also the general hormonal background of a woman.
The appearance of signs of hormonal imbalance after the first menstruation: acne, stretch marks, obesity, acromegaly. Most often, this process is mediated by trauma, stress, or a viral disease. Other signs also appear: headaches, dizziness blood pressure, chronic fatigue.

Additional signs of hormone imbalance:

cessation of height growth;
sweating;
decreased vision;
peeling and itching of the skin.

During the period of fertility, when the hormonal background is destabilized, signs that make it possible to unambiguously diagnose the disorder may not be observed. The only sign by which appropriate conclusions can be drawn is unsuccessful attempts get pregnant. But the menstrual cycle is normal, disturbances only affect ovulation.

Most often, one of the following symptoms appears:

Amenorrhea or absence of menstruation. Both long-term refusal of food or serious food restriction, as well as disease of the ovaries or brain, or increased production of hormones by the adrenal glands can affect the level of hormones.
Prolonged bleeding, which often do not coincide with the cycle, starting after long delays. Ovulation does not always occur. The consequence of bleeding can be endometriosis and uterine tumors.
PMS– bright severe symptoms are not normal. They indicate disturbances in the functioning of the hypothalamus.
Itsenko-Cushing syndrome– characterized by hypertrichosis, the appearance of stretch marks, brittle bones, the formation of a skin-fat hump on the back, hypertrophy of the heart muscle.

After an abortion, the body experiences serious hormonal stress caused by a failure of the natural process. Normally, hormonal levels should return to normal. Consequences of abortion, such as weight gain, stretch marks, headaches, indicate disorders in the body. Depression and vaginal dryness are likely.

IN postpartum period the violation is indicated by the absence of menstruation upon cessation of lactation, hypertrichosis, increased irritability, which can be triggered not only by disease or infection, but also by overwork. A lack of the hormone oxytocin leads to a deterioration in the contractility of the uterus, which is why postpartum fluid remains in it, causing postpartum depression.

Signs of disturbance during menopause:

pronounced PMS;
weakness;
depression;
joint pain;
insomnia in the morning;
absent-mindedness;
soreness of the mammary glands.

Consequences of hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance in women causes such consequences as:

threat of miscarriage during pregnancy;
disruption of labor;
cycle disruption;
infertility;

pronounced signs of menopause (often premature);
development of cancerous tumors;
diabetes mellitus (non-insulin dependent);
osteoporosis;
atherosclerosis.

Female hormones and signs of fluctuations in their levels

Hormonal levels in women are determined by several key hormones:

Diseases causing changes

Hormonal imbalance in women occurs due to diseases:

brain injuries;
viral infection;
uterine fibroids;

polycystic ovary syndrome – affects testosterone levels;
adrenal tumor – causes an increase in testosterone levels;
pituitary tumor – can cause an increase or decrease in the level of any female hormone, which is determined by the location of the tumor;
underdevelopment of endocrine glands;
inflammation of the genital organs;
diabetes mellitus

Diagnostics

To successfully determine the causes of the disease and determine the course of treatment, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis, which includes:

clarification of medical history;
examination on a gynecological chair;
tests for all of the above hormones and lipoproteins;
Ultrasound of the adrenal glands;
Ultrasound reproductive organs, liver;
consultation with an endocrinologist;
Ultrasound of the endocrine glands, in particular the thyroid gland, and a blood test for the hormones produced by it;
hysteroscopy;
laparoscopy.

Treatment

The course of treatment includes:

taking vitamins, hormonal drugs;
psychotherapy;
surgery.

Treatment depends on the identified pathologies. For serious disorders associated with benign and malignant neoplasms in the glands that regulate hormonal levels, surgery, laparoscopy or curettage, as well as appropriate therapy, including radiation and chemotherapy, are necessary.

In other cases, hormonal-correcting drugs are prescribed. Treatment can be aimed at eliminating symptoms, as, for example, during menopause (for menopause, drugs are prescribed that reduce the intensity of the symptoms of menopausal syndrome).

If a hormonal imbalance occurs due to natural circumstances, such as childbirth, medical attention is not required, as it returns to normal on its own. After an abortion, medications are taken that normalize hormonal levels.

During the period of treatment you must refrain from:

sexual intercourse;
physical activity;
bad habits.

Spa treatment is useful.

Vitamins

Vitamins and minerals are necessary to eliminate the effects of hormonal imbalances, and directly normalizing hormonal levels:

A– normalizes progesterone levels, participates in the production of sex hormones;
B– the entire group, including folic acid, helps improve well-being, participates in the processes of conception, pregnancy development, and determines libido;

E– necessary for the functioning of the thyroid gland during pregnancy;
C– participates in the process of hormone production by the adrenal glands.

Homeopathic remedies

To normalize hormonal levels, it is prescribed homeopathic remedies, which are considered safer, although you should also be careful when taking them and take them only as prescribed by your doctor.

Hormone therapy

When prescribing hormonal therapy, take into account individual indicators hormones. If the disorders are not critical, oral contraceptives can be used to normalize hormones - Zhanin, Yarina. In other cases, it is necessary to determine a therapeutic course and use hormonal drugs with a therapeutic dosage of hormones.

For example, if the ovaries are underdeveloped, estrogen-containing drugs are taken to compensate for organ dysfunction and normalize the menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone are taken in increased dosages for dysfunction of the ovaries and hypothalamus, which leads to normalization of the ovulatory cycle.

Injections of chronic human gonadotropin and follicle-stimulating hormone are necessary for follicle growth.

Duphaston - taken for progesterone deficiency. Its active substance is dydrogesterone. The dosage is adjusted by the doctor.

The treatment regimen varies depending on the disease:

	Endometriosis	PMS	Bleeding (taken with estrogen-containing medications)	Dysmenorrhea
Duration	5-25 days cycle	11-25 days of the cycle	5-7 days	5-25 days cycle
Dosage	10 mg	10 mg	10 mg	10 mg
Reception frequency	2-3 rubles/day	2 rubles/day	By purpose	By purpose

	Amenorrhea (as part of complex therapy)	Infertility	Irregular menstrual cycle
Duration	By purpose	14-25 days of the cycle for 3-6 months. or up to 20 weeks. pregnancy	11-25 days of the cycle
Dosage	10 mg	10 mg (40 mg once if there is a threat of miscarriage)	10 mg
Reception frequency	By purpose	By purpose	By purpose

Metipred. Active ingredient is methylprednisolone. The drug is taken when there is a threat of spontaneous abortion due to increased testosterone levels. Prescription form - tablets or intramuscular injections in severe cases.

Utrozhestan. The drug regulates progesterone and estrogen levels by increasing progesterone production and decreasing estrogen levels. It is advisable to take the drug in the second half of the cycle (after ovulation and before day 26), when the role of progesterone increases.

Indications for use: irregular menstrual cycle, delay and absence of menstruation, scanty discharge. Duration of use: pregnancy planning and up to 27 weeks after conception. The drug is discontinued gradually. Hormonal ointments and suppositories can be used as prescribed by a doctor. The course of therapy with hormone-containing drugs is usually 3 months.

Folk remedies

Folk remedies will help stabilize female hormonal levels. However, plants can also have harmful properties. They contain hormone-like substances plant origin, which can be harmful to the body in increased dosage.

To stabilize the cycle, it is recommended to take infusions and decoctions based on calendula, nettle, and meadow clover.
For menopause, folk remedies based on mint, lemon balm, St. John's wort, sage (contains phytoestrogens, so products based on it help prevent estrogen deficiency), lily of the valley, and crowberry will help.
Oregano activates the production of female sex hormones.
Fenugreek is taken after childbirth, for painful discharge.
Black cumin oil is used for infertility.
Flax oil normalizes estrogen levels.
Potentilla cinquefoil will help normalize progesterone levels.

How to use some of the above plants and oils should be considered in more detail. To normalize hormonal levels, black cumin oil is used. Dosage: 1 tsp, separately from meals. The oil will be more effective if taken before meals, and it will be better digested after meals.

The product is combined with hormonal therapy, but the oil cannot be taken simultaneously with hormone-containing tablets. Between appointments medicines There must be a break of at least 3 hours.

Flax oil contains a significant amount of phytoestrogens, including lignin. It can be taken to reduce the symptoms of menopause. Dosage: 2 tbsp. You can use it to dress salads. The effect will be noticeable in 1-2 weeks.

Sage activates the process of endometrial formation, promotes the maturation of follicles, which increases the likelihood of conception. Doctors recommend taking water decoctions and infusions of sage orally, while simultaneously conducting therapy with Duphaston and Utrozhestan at the beginning of the cycle.

One of the infusion recipes: 1 tsp. leaves are brewed with slightly cooled water after boiling (1 tbsp), infused, then filtered. Dosage: 1⁄4 tbsp. 3 rubles/day It is not recommended to take the infusion in the evening.

It is important to know that the plant is contraindicated:

for fibroids, endometriosis;
hypersensitivity;
problems with the thyroid gland;
increased estrogen levels;
during lactation and in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Throughout the entire cycle, you can take wormwood, sage and boron uterus - each plant on certain days:

wormwood – from 1-5 days;
sage – from 6-15 days;
boron uterus - from 16-25 days.

Wormwood increases monthly bleeding. Recipe: 2 tbsp. herbs for 1 tbsp. hot boiled water. Then the container is placed in a steam bath for 15 minutes. Take 2 tbsp. 30 minutes before meals, 3 times a day. Sage is taken strictly before ovulation. 1 tsp Brew 1 tbsp in a thermos. water, leave for 15-20 minutes. The strained solution is taken 20-30 minutes before meals.

Borovoy uterus take 1 tsp. for 1 tbsp. Brew and insist. Drink 0.5 tbsp. 2 rubles/day Infusions are taken for 3 months. It is recommended to combine herbal medicine with taking vitamins.

Fenugreek seeds increase estrogen and prolactin levels in the body. It can be taken in the form of powder, decoctions or infusions. Tea is prepared from the powder by brewing it. The infusion is prepared in a thermos for 2 minutes. For 1 tbsp. seeds take 1 tbsp. water.

To reduce the duration of menstruation and reduce their pain, brew goose cinquefoil: 1 tsp. herbs for 1 tbsp. boiling water

Take the product 2 times a day. The course of treatment begins a week before the onset of menstruation and ends with the onset of menstruation. 1 tbsp. sacred vitex brew 2 tbsp. boiling water in a thermos and leave for 6-8 hours in the thermos. The infusion stimulates ovulation and helps stabilize the cycle.

Diet

Hormonal levels in women can be normalized, simultaneously getting rid of the consequences of its disturbance, such as obesity, fatigue, bad mood, with the help balanced diet. In addition to giving up fatty, fried, alcoholic drinks, it is necessary to include in the menu products that affect female hormonal levels, that is, containing vitamins A and E, as well as phytohormones.

Must be used:

fish;
soy products;
legumes;
cabbage;
spinach;
eggs;
pumpkin seeds;
nuts, dates, pomegranate - to increase estrogen levels;
wild yam for progesterone deficiency;
vegetable oil;
carrot;
persimmon;
apples;
dried fruits;
berries.

Experts note the benefits of juice therapy and fasting days to cleanse the body naturally.

Regime and lifestyle

Supporting the body, along with diet, will allow:

giving up bad habits;

normalization of sleep and rest patterns.

Menstrual irregularities, infertility, early menopause, diseases of the genital organs in women are associated with hormonal imbalance, an increase in the level of some hormones and a decrease in the level of others. Depending on the complexity of the disease, treatment may include taking vitamins, homeopathic, hormonal medications or folk remedies.

Useful videos about hormonal levels in women, normal indicators and recovery methods

Causes of hormonal imbalance in women:

Symptoms of hormonal imbalances:

All vital processes of the human body are interconnected with physiological changes in the level of hormones in the blood, which control its cycles of development and growth, reproduction and withering. The functional regulation system is responsible for hormonal secretion in the body. internal organs– grandular apparatus, represented by various endocrine glands of internal secretion.

They have a significant impact on the functioning of the central nervous system and exercise control and functional regulation every vital organ. Hormonal imbalance is a process of hormonal dysfunction caused by pathologies in the neuroregulatory and endocrine systems.

The activity of the intrasecretory glands and the hormones they synthesize in a healthy body are in a state of harmonious equilibrium and balance. But this state is very fragile.

Violation of the synthesis of just one type of hormones leads to a violation of the coordination in the work of all endocrine glands - an imbalance of hormones, manifested by various pathological changes in the body.

Signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance are observed in women of different ages; various disorders lead to hormone imbalance:

an increase in hormone synthesis or a decrease in it;
changes in the chemical structure of hormones, leading to disruption of synthesis;
disturbances in the transport system of hormonal organic substances;
simultaneous failure of synthesis in various glands of the endocrine system.

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Causes of hormonal imbalance in women

The factor of insufficient hormonal synthesis, which causes hormonal imbalance in women, can be various pathological processes in the form of:

Infectious and inflammatory processes in the endocrine glands;
Anatomical congenital anomalies caused by their underdevelopment;
Surgical interventions for injuries or tumor processes in the secretory glands;
Hemorrhagic manifestations in their tissue structure;
Lack of or impaired blood supply;
Deficiency of vitamin and mineral elements in the diet;
Immune failure.

Excess hormone secretion is provoked by:

uncontrolled use of drugs containing hormones;
various injuries (mainly to the abdomen and head);
inflammatory pathologies.

The balanced operation of the granular apparatus system can be disrupted by:

stressful and hypodynamic conditions;
chronic lack of sleep;
addiction to bad habits;
too early sexual life, or its complete absence.

In addition, there are reasons for changes in hormonal levels in women, due to physiological reasons. This is facilitated by the reorganization of the background during pregnancy.

During this period, the synthesis of new hormones begins to ensure normal gestation. At the beginning of pregnancy, the synthesis of female hormones increases, and at the beginning of the 2nd trimester it decreases, as the synthesis of estriol by the placenta begins.

Changes in hormonal levels occur again after delivery. Pregnancy hormones stop being synthesized and are replaced by the synthesis of the prolactin fraction, which stimulates the intensity of milk production. When a woman stops breastfeeding, a decrease occurs and the body returns to the normal volume of synthesis of the main female hormones (progesterone and estrogen).

Medical abortions also cause a sharp imbalance of hormones. Endocrine glands stop the synthesis of a number of hormones. In response to such stress, the body responds with increased secretion of adrenal and female sex hormones. During this period female body very vulnerable.

Concomitant pathologies and unfavorable factors against the background of hormonal imbalance can provoke pathological disorders in the structure of the ovaries - their tissue proliferation (thecomatosis), tumor formations, or the development of processes.

signs of hormonal imbalance, photos

There are almost no specific, special symptoms of a malfunction in the balance of hormones in a woman’s body, so diagnosing endocrine diseases is not an easy process - the signs of a hormonal imbalance are similar to the symptoms of many other diseases. Although several signs suggest hormonal imbalance still exist. They appear:

Increased appetite, but at the same time weight loss progresses. This indicates increased secretion processes in the thyroid gland. Pathology appears:

irritability and nervousness;
insomnia and hyperhidrosis;
tremor of fingers;
cardiac arrhythmia;
low, long-term fever bodies.

Lack of functional activity of the thyroid glands is characterized by the following symptoms:

development of simultaneous obesity throughout the body;
weakness (asthenia) and tendency to drowsiness;
dry skin and mucous membranes, including the vagina;
brittle hair and its thinning;
chilliness and low temperature;
hoarseness of voice.

In women over 30 years of age, hormonal imbalance often results from dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary system. What provokes the development of the selective process of obesity, when thin legs quickly become overgrown with fat? upper part torso. Wavy crimson stripes appear due to stretching of the skin of the thighs, abdomen and mammary glands.

The presence of such “metamorphoses” causes in women sharp jumps HELL. As a result of excessive synthesis of somatotropin (growth hormone), the appearance changes - the jaw and tongue enlarge, the shape of the lips, cheekbones and brow ridges changes.

The voice becomes hoarse, increased hair growth and joint pain are noted. In the presence of tumor neoplasms in the pituitary gland, the symptoms of hormonal imbalance are marked by worsening visual functions accompanied by constant migraines.

Failure of the endocrine gland of the digestive system (pancreas) leads to the development of diabetes, accompanied by itchy skin, slowly healing wounds, furunculosis, constant thirst and polyuria (frequent urination).

Increased synthesis of androgens (testosterone) provokes hormonal imbalance in women with symptoms of delayed menstrual cycle, heavy menstrual flow, intermenstrual hemorrhages, and irregular periods. At the same time, changes in appearance appear:

excessive hair growth on the body and face of women;
rough, oily skin;
regular rashes and the development of acne.

Signs of age-related hormonal imbalance in women manifest themselves with a host of unpleasant symptoms during menopause. This is due to a sudden cessation of hormonal synthesis of female hormones and an increase in hormones synthesized by the glands of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, thyroid and adrenal glands. The manifestation of symptoms depends on the genesis of various disorders.

With the vegetative-vascular nature of the disorders, the symptoms are expressed:

hypertension and heart pain;
attacks of tachycardia;
hand tremors and hyperhidrosis;
hot flushes to the head.

For emotional disturbances:

excessive nervousness, attacks of anger and anger;
depressed mood and tearfulness;
anxiety and depression.

insomnia is one of the signs of hormonal imbalance

Neurological signs:

decreased attention and impaired mental productivity;
drowsiness during the day and insomnia at night;
frequent manifestation of migraines and signs of vertigo.

Functional disorders in metabolic processes, manifested by:

osteoporosis – increased fragility of bones;
symptoms of hirsutism (hair growth in the form of a mustache and beard);
slower hair growth in the armpits and groin area.

If women experience symptoms and signs of hormonal imbalance, treatment depends on which hormone deficiency is found in the body - one or a group. The treatment protocol is based on two directions - regulation of imbalance with oral contraceptives, or individual drugs.

The first option for treating hormonal dysfunctions is using drugs oral contraceptives with a different number of hormonal combinations - low-dose and micro-dose forms. Sometimes, if necessary long-term treatment a mixed course of drugs is prescribed, but a short-term course of high-dose contraceptives is also possible.

Among low-dose drugs, preference is given to Femoden, Gestoden, Marvelon, Desogestrel, Cyproterone, Janine, Yarina, and Drospirinone.
When treating with microdosed drugs, Mercilon, Desogestrel, Novinet, Loest and Gestodene are used.

Treatment of hormonal levels in women with hormone preparations begins with an individual selection of medications. Which causes a certain difficulty, since the treatment course consists of several drugs and it is important to select them in such a way as not to cause a disruption in the secretion of those hormones that are present normally.

If there is excess androgen secretion, drugs such as Dexamethasone, Cyproterone or Metipred are prescribed.
To normalize the level of progesterone in the blood, Urozhestan and Duphaston are prescribed
Estrogen deficiency is corrected with the help of Premarin, Divigel or Proginova, and if there is an excess amount, Clomiphene or Tamoxifen are prescribed.

These are just minor examples of treatment for this problem; a specific therapeutic treatment plan should be drawn up by a medical specialist.

The prognosis of treatment depends on the timeliness of hormonal therapy, which can prevent a lot of unpleasant pathologies: the development of malignant neoplasms leading to stroke and heart attack, and eliminate a real threat

A person’s hormonal background is what largely determines his entire life. It shapes your appearance: height, weight, skeletal structure, skin and even hair color. Hormonal levels, being the result of the interaction of many factors, are subject to frequent fluctuations. The hormonal system and the hormonal background of a person are quite closely connected with the activity of his nervous system. In order for a woman’s hormonal background to be healthy, she must have at least some fat reserves. In 95% of patients diagnosed with obesity, excess weight is to blame for hormonal imbalances. How to restore hormonal levels after childbirth. During pregnancy, a woman's hormonal background changes, this is absolutely natural. Hormonal imbalance symptoms in women, external manifestations by which you can easily understand that there is an excess or deficiency of hormones in the body.

How to normalize hormonal levels in a month

Hormones are responsible for everything that happens in our lives - the position of physiologists. -What about the mind? - the thinker objects. - The lack of the smallest hormone, and a person became a plant. (Anna Duvarova)

Translated from Greek word"hormone" means "to set in motion." Indeed, excess or deficiency of hormones leads to disruptions in our health. Hormones, of which there are more than a hundred varieties, are produced by the internal secretion organs, i.e. endocrine organs. Hormones are specific substances that are produced in the body and regulate its development and functioning. Some hormones, such as thyroid hormones, have a general effect on all organs, others, like aldosterone, on one or two organs. However, insufficient production of one of the hormones leads to illness in the body as a whole. Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in young girls 14–16 years old may be the absence of menstruation or its irregularity

How can we help ourselves through nutrition to try to regulate the release of the endocrine system? various hormones without resorting to hormone replacement therapy? First, let's get acquainted with the symptoms of insufficient production of one or another hormone.

Violations hormonal background and their reasons. Does your face feel swollen in the morning? In the morning, look carefully at yourself in the mirror. Swollen and puffy cheeks? If so, then you probably have an underactive thyroid gland. Do you have a swollen, moon-shaped face in the morning? Your adrenal glands may be producing more cortisol than your body needs. Excess cortisol appears in people exposed to intense and prolonged stress. If this case is stress, then thanks to the excess cortisol you have enough energy to resist mental stress. But excess cortisol suppresses thyroid function and causes a deficiency of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones provide us with not only appearance in the morning, but also a good mood after sleep and during rest. Who among us does not have a relative or acquaintance who gets up on the wrong foot every morning and shows irritability at the beginning of the day? Such a person morning depression. Or a busy person gets very tired after work if there is simply no time to sit down at work.

Thyroid gland- the most sensitive of all other glands to the seasons of the year. In winter, the level of thyroid hormones drops, and therefore we store 1-3 extra pounds. Sometimes the function of the gland can be reduced in the summer. What products should be used to activate thyroid gland and increase hormone production. First of all, all seafood and seaweed, because... they have the highest content of organic iodine. Plant products include persimmon, feijoa, dates, chokeberry and currants, prunes, apples, cherries, cucumbers, potatoes, beets, carrots, cabbage, eggplants, garlic, radishes, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, onions. But remember that excess meat consumption, especially fatty varieties, leads to a decrease in the level of thyroid hormones. Products that stimulate the growth of the thyroid gland when consumed in large quantities include cabbage (especially cauliflower), root vegetables (especially radishes, turnips), as well as spinach, peaches, and Jerusalem artichoke. In many cases, with a slight excess intake of iodine from food, the main role in the development of goiter is played by a deficiency of other microelements, such as cobalt, manganese, and selenium. The effect of treatment can only be obtained by correcting their intake into the body.

Growth hormone(somatotropic hormone, somatotropin) - one of the hormones of the anterior pituitary gland. Functions of growth hormone in human body, are quite extensive. Lack of growth hormone in childhood is associated mainly with genetic defects and causes growth retardation, pituitary dwarfism (dwarfism), and sometimes also puberty. Growth hormone determines a person's height, strengthens the body, straightens the back, develops the nose, jaw, chin, shoulder and pelvic muscles, helps preserve youth, reduces fat layer, strengthens thighs, reduces belly fat, gives energy during the day, helps restore strength, especially after a night vigil, effectively reduces anxiety. How to improve hormonal levels with food? Is there a way to prevent hormonal disorders? To increase growth hormone levels eat enough food with high content proteins (meat, poultry, fish). Limit your coffee consumption. Women who consume a lot of coffee have low levels of growth hormone, somatomedin, in their blood. Give yourself moderate physical activity - with each exercise, growth hormone is pushed into the blood. Stop smoking– Smoking addiction can lead to premature aging.

Melatonin - scientific name for sleep hormone. This hormone was discovered in the USA by A.B. Lerner in 1958. This hormone affects the desire to sleep. Hormone production begins to increase at dusk, reaches a maximum from 0 to 4.00 in the morning and decreases with dawn. We fall asleep, and melatonin gets to work. It is mainly secreted by the pineal gland, a small gland located deep in the brain. Other organs – the intestines and the retina of the eye – also have the ability to produce melatonin. If you have difficulty falling asleep and get up in the morning unrested, you may be lacking one single hormone. Melatonin beneficially reduces tension, relaxes muscles, reduces adrenaline and thins the blood, causes yawning at night and the desire to go to bed, and wakes you up in the morning by activating thyroid hormones. How to Naturally Increase Melatonin Levels? The room you sleep in should not be too hot or too cold. The room should be light in the morning and completely dark at night. While on vacation, try to be in the sun in the morning. Eat more foods rich in melatonin: rice, corn, oats. Fruits: bananas. Give preference to cold-pressed vegetable oils containing a high percentage of Omega-6, do not consume too much Omega-3 fatty acids (in fish). Take calcium and magnesium before bed, amino acid supplements like tryptophan and carnitine, and vitamin B3. Reduce your intake of coffee, alcoholic beverages, and certain medications, such as b-blockers, benzodiazepines at night, antipsychotics during the day, clonidine, and lithium.

Estradiol, the hormone of femininity and beauty. Most of estradiol is produced by the ovaries, a smaller part is produced by adipose tissue from other hormones secreted by the adrenal glands. Estradiol promotes breast development, the creation of roundness in female forms, smoothes wrinkles, gets rid of unwanted hair, moisturizes the eyes and makes them shiny and radiant, promotes joy, cheerfulness, good mood, provides physical endurance, promotes the desire for love and intimacy. With a lack of estradiol, the eyes are dull, the breasts are small or have lost their elasticity, excessive hair growth is noted. male type. Hormonal imbalance is manifested by symptoms characteristic of relative hyperestrogenemia: mammary glands enlarge. Complaints are usually about fatigue during the day, a tendency to depression, despondency, lack of sexual desire, scanty menstruation or delay. What do you recommend? Eat enough food: the number of calories you consume should correspond to the energy you expend. The food should contain a sufficient amount of animal protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs). Avoid whole grains (bread and pasta coarsely ground): their fiber takes estrogens from the body and excretes them in excrement. Avoid prolonged stressful situations, smoke less and drink coffee less often. Avoid birth control pills with a low content of chemical estrogens. The female body reacts differently to hormonal imbalance, and sometimes seemingly ordinary symptoms can be the result of a hormonal imbalance.

Testosterone- the main male sex hormone, androgen. This is the same hormone that makes a man a man. Provides a constant flow of energy, gives stamina from morning to evening, increases physical strength and vitality, develops body muscles, strengthens the figure, reduces fat, creates a good mood and awakens sexual desire. The basis of the hormone is amino acids and polyunsaturated fats, while the following takes part in its production: important trace element like zinc. Therefore, its production will be affected by the abundance or deficiency of these substances in the diet. Direct precursors of testosterone and testosterone itself are found in large quantities in beekeeping products - royal jelly and bee pollen. When consumed, they have a pronounced anabolic effect. In addition, honey contains boron, which helps increase testosterone production and reduces the level of the female hormone estrogen. By the way, estrogen is also present in the male body, but in much smaller quantities. With obesity, its level can increase, and testosterone levels, on the contrary, decrease. Thus, products that increase testosterone synthesis and decrease estrogen levels have right action on the male body.

But about the fact that Cholesterol is needed for the synthesis of sex hormones, few people know. Indeed, the basis of the hormone is cholesterol, but this does not mean that we should eat black caviar, cod liver and chicken yolks with spoons. The body synthesizes cholesterol for hormones in the liver from polyunsaturated fatty acids that came with food. If, of course, they did. If there is a deficiency of them in the diet, then, alas, food rich in cholesterol but poor in unsaturated fats will lead to the development of atherosclerosis and will not make a superman out of a man.

For the opposite effect, consume fatty foods. sea fish minimally processed, take omega-3−6−9 fatty acid supplements. Buy a variety of cold-pressed vegetable oils and use them at the same time. The best for this purpose will be: olive, flaxseed, sesame, walnut. Good source unsaturated fat seeds and nuts: flax-seed, sesame seeds, pine nuts will be an excellent addition to green leafy salads; you can snack on walnuts and satisfy your hunger. Nuts and seeds also contain vitamin E, which is essential for maintaining hormonal balance.

Separately, I would like to say about oatmeal, which in Rus' since ancient times was considered a man’s porridge. The tradition of eating oatmeal for breakfast 3-4 times a week will bring you closer to the English aristocracy and give you strength, courage and masculinity.

Zinc is important to increase the production of male sex hormones. Most of it is found in oysters and other seafood. They are considered classic aphrodisiacs. Minerals from seafood are better absorbed by our body, as they are contained there in the form of salts. Traditionally, veal, beef and poultry are recommended for raising testosterone levels, as foods containing the necessary amino acids for its synthesis.

Traditionally, red meat and dark poultry meat are recommended to increase testosterone production due to the sufficient content of amino acids necessary for its synthesis. The meat is also rich in zinc and B vitamins, which are essential for a man’s hormonal balance. Zinc, in addition to increasing the synthesis of testosterone, reduces the production of another hormone, prolactin, which often leads to sexual dysfunction and, in women, to diseases of the mammary glands. Brown rice, grain bread, and green vegetables are rich in zinc.

Progesterone also called pregnancy hormone, hormone corpus luteum ovaries. This is a hormone of a serene state, which makes a woman more calm, carefree and a little lazy during pregnancy, when it is produced in large quantities. Creates a feeling of peace and improves sleep. In what products? If progesterone production naturally is reduced, then the consumption of animal proteins (meat, poultry, fish) and fats, including cholesterol (eggs, fish, fatty meats) should be increased. Try to avoid stressful situations, sleep more, take walks in the evenings. Add to your diet foods containing vitamins P and C (ascorutin) - citrus fruits, rose hips, black currants, etc. Monitor your fluid intake. A sufficient amount of progesterone in the blood is a good prevention of preservation bone tissue until old age. Calcium is not washed out of bones.

Serotonin is the hormone of joy. When it is produced in sufficient quantities, we experience a feeling of satisfaction, joy, happiness, because by its chemical nature it belongs to the opiate group. And, on the contrary, with its deficiency, we fall into melancholy, feel lethargy and weakness, and lack of any interest in life.

Increases serotonin production:

Chocolate. It contains methylxanthines, which stimulate the transmission of nerve impulses and make us more alert, and also cause the release of endorphins, which create a feeling of satisfaction and improve mood.
You only need to remember that dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70% is suitable for these purposes. 15-20 g of such chocolate daily will not give you an increase in kilograms, but will provide a charge of vivacity and good mood.

In addition, endophrine levels increase foods rich in animal protein, such as turkey, chicken, beef, eggs and cheese. They contain two amino acids - tryptophan and L-phenylalanine, which cause the brain to produce endorphins. Lentils, beans, champignons and oyster mushrooms also contain a large amount of tryptophan.

From vegetables Tomatoes are indicated to increase serotonin. In some cultures they are called "apples of love." Thanks to the content of tryptamine in a sufficiently large amount, whose action resembles the action of serotonin, we relax and lose our “brakes”.
In fruits serotonin is found in bananas, dates, figs, plums.

Reduces the production of the hormone serotonin:

Alcohol, caffeine and trendy energy drinks, containing guarana and other caffeine-like substances that seem to lift the mood, but are actually factors that reduce the production of serotonin. Mood and energy increase temporarily, but in fact they all have a depressing effect on the central nervous system and lead to its depletion. Every time you need everything high dose in order to be cheerful with their help, and the person becomes dependent.

Products high in sugar, yeast, leading to fermentation in the intestines disrupt the balance of microorganisms that synthesize derivatives for this hormone. Therefore, in many cases, depressed mood can be the result of dysbiosis.

Well, besides this, you need to remember that overeating both protein and carbohydrate foods inhibits the production of the hormone.

And also important hormones - vasopressin or the memory hormone, pregnenolone or the memory hormone, insulin or the sugar hormone, DHEA or the hormone for improving the quality of life, etc. And, as you understand, all hormones are extremely important for each of us and their correct quantitative ratio is extremely important.

Choice proper nutrition, sufficient physical activity, and combating stress will certainly improve your well-being, restore hormonal levels and thereby create some protection from old age. And rest assured that within 3 weeks of starting to work on yourself, you will see significant changes in your health and mood that will delight you.

All life cycles of the human body are directly related to physiological changes in hormonal levels, which ensure growth and reproduction, development and withering.

The importance of the normal state of hormonal levels is difficult to overestimate, since the endocrine system has a decisive influence on many functions of the central nervous system (emotions, feelings, memory, physical and intellectual performance), and is also involved in the regulation of the work of all vital organs.

Initially, “hormonal failure” was the name given to the pathology of the endocrine system in women, which was clinically manifested primarily by menstrual irregularities.

However, in lately increasingly, the phrase “hormonal imbalance” is used to describe various kinds troubles associated with endocrine regulation disorders in men.

The fact is that, despite all the differences in the structure of the reproductive system, hormonal imbalances cause both men and women to have many similar symptoms that have a systemic manifestation (disorders of the central nervous activity, obesity, osteoporosis, development of severe diseases of the cardiovascular system, etc.).

Causes of hormonal imbalance in women and men

Reasons hormonal imbalances men and women are very diverse. First of all, it should be noted that hormonal levels are the result of a complex interaction between the central system of neuroendocrine regulation located in the brain (the so-called hypothalamic-pituitary system) and the endocrine glands located on the periphery (male and female gonads).

So, according to their origin, all factors of hormonal imbalance can be divided into:
1. Causes associated with disturbances of central regulation.
2. Causes due to pathology of peripheral glands (infectious and inflammatory diseases, congenital hypoplasia (underdevelopment), tumors, injuries, etc.).

Disorders of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, in turn, can be caused by its direct organic damage(severe traumatic brain injury, tumor, encephalitis), or indirectly influenced by unfavorable external and internal factors (chronic fatigue syndrome, general exhaustion of the body, etc.).

In addition, the general hormonal levels are strongly influenced endocrine glands, not directly related to reproduction. This is especially true for the adrenal cortex and thyroid gland.

The causes of hormonal imbalance can be nervous or physical stress, acute infectious diseases, vitamin deficiency. According to statistics, practically healthy girls studying on an intensive schedule (lyceums, gymnasiums, etc.) are at risk.

Clinically, JUM is uterine bleeding that develops in girls during puberty (usually within 2 years after the first menstruation), after a delay in the next menstruation for a period of two weeks to several months.

Such bleeding is usually profuse and leads to severe anemia. Sometimes SMCs are not abundant, but long-lasting (10-15 days).

Severe repeated bleeding can be complicated by an imbalance between the coagulation and anticoagulation systems of the blood (DIC), against the background of which the bleeding intensifies even more - this condition poses an immediate threat to life and requires emergency medical care.

Signs of hormonal imbalance in women of reproductive age

Amenorrhea

A prolonged absence of menstruation, not associated with pregnancy or lactation, in women of reproductive age is called amenorrhea, and indicates a hormonal imbalance.

According to the mechanism of occurrence they distinguish:
1. Amenorrhea of central origin.
2. Amenorrhea associated with dysfunction of the adrenal cortex.
3. Amenorrhea caused by ovarian pathology.

Amenorrhea of central origin can be caused by severe mental trauma, as well as physical exhaustion caused by prolonged illness or nutritional factors (prolonged fasting). In addition, direct damage to the hypothalamic-pituitary system is possible due to injuries, infectious-inflammatory or oncological processes.

In such cases, hormonal imbalance occurs against a background of nervous and physical exhaustion, and is accompanied by symptoms of bradycardia, hypotension, and anemia.

Amenorrhea can also be one of the manifestations of Itsenko-Cushing syndrome. In such cases, hormonal imbalance leads to severe damage to many organs and systems. Patients have a very specific appearance: Cushingoid obesity (moon-shaped purplish-red face, fat deposits on the neck and upper body with atrophy of the muscles of the extremities), male-pattern hair growth, purple stretch marks on the body. In addition, arterial hypertension and osteoporosis are characteristic, and glucose tolerance is reduced.

Itsenko-Cushing syndrome indicates overproduction of adrenal hormones, so its cause may be neoplasms that secrete these hormones, or pituitary tumors that stimulate the synthesis of steroids in the adrenal glands.

However, the so-called functional hypercortisolism (pseudo-Cushing syndrome) occurs quite often, when hormonal imbalance is caused by functional disorders activities neuroendocrine system associated with obesity, alcoholism, and neuropsychiatric diseases.

The most common cause of ovarian amenorrhea is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can occur under the influence of stress factors such as the onset of sexual activity, abortion, childbirth, etc. In addition to amenorrhea, the leading symptom of hormonal imbalance in PCOS is obesity, reaching the second or third degree, as well as male-pattern hair growth (on upper lip, chin, inner thighs). Very characteristic signs are also dystrophy of the skin and its appendages (striae on the skin of the abdomen, chest and thighs; brittle nails, hair loss). Subsequently, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism- there is a tendency to develop atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes.

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding

Dysfunctional uterine bleeding in women of reproductive age occurs, most often, as a result of hormonal imbalance caused by nervous or mental stress, infectious diseases, abortion, etc.

In this case, the normal periodicity of the menstrual cycle is disrupted, and a predisposition to malignant neoplasms of the endometrium arises. The ability to conceive and carry a child normally is reduced in women with DUB.

This kind of hormonal imbalance most often occurs after 30 years, but it can also develop in young girls. The causes of PMS are not fully understood. Hereditary predisposition is of great importance (the family nature of the pathology is often traced). Provoking factors are often abortions, severe nervous shock, infectious diseases.

Risk factors for the development of PMS are exposure to stress and physical inactivity (living in big cities, intellectual work, sedentary lifestyle), as well as unhealthy diet, chronic gynecological diseases and damage to the central nervous system (trauma, neuroinfections).

PMS gets its name from the time of onset: symptoms appear several days before the onset of menstruation, reaching a maximum on the first day menstrual bleeding, and completely disappear with the end. However, in severe cases, progression of PMS is observed - its duration increases, and the light intervals decrease.

Conventionally, all symptoms of PMS can be divided into several groups:
1. Neurosis-like disorders: irritability, tendency to depression, fatigue, sleep disturbance (drowsiness during the day and insomnia at night).
2. Migraine-like syndrome: severe headache, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
3. Signs of metabolic disorders (swelling of the face and limbs).
4. Symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia (lability of pulse and blood pressure, flatulence).

In severe cases, vegetative-vascular disorders occur as sympathoadrenal crises (unmotivated attacks of fear of death, accompanied by increased blood pressure and increased heart rate, ending with copious urination). Such crises indicate involvement of the adrenal medulla in the process.

Most women complain about increased sensitivity to odors and painful engorgement of the mammary glands. Often there are disorders of various organs and systems (heart pain, slight increase in body temperature, itchy skin, allergic manifestations).

Today, the list of symptoms of hormonal imbalance during PMS has exceeded 200 items, but psycho-emotional disorders are the most common. At the same time, depression is more typical for young women, and irritability is more common for mature women.

Hormonal imbalance in women after abortion

Hormonal imbalance is one of the most frequent complications abortion It is caused by both a serious mental shock and a disruption of the complex neuroendocrine restructuring of the body, which begins in the first weeks of pregnancy.

As a general rule, with abortions in first-time mothers, the likelihood of complications is much higher, regardless of the method of termination. Of course, the earlier the intervention was performed, the lower the risk.

But if we're talking about about medical abortion, then in this case hormonal disruption occurs during the intervention itself. That's why after medical abortion Be sure to carry out a course of hormonal therapy to restore the cycle.

Normally, the menstrual cycle should resume one month after the abortion. If this does not happen, you should immediately consult a doctor.

In addition, symptoms of hormonal imbalance after an abortion are:

weight gain;
the appearance of stretch marks on the skin;
symptoms from the nervous system (irritability, headache, fatigue, depression);
instability of blood pressure and pulse, sweating.

Hormonal imbalance in women after childbirth

After childbirth, a physiological restructuring of the body occurs, which takes a fairly long period of time. Therefore, the time it takes to restore a normal menstrual cycle is highly variable, even in cases where a woman is not breastfeeding.

Weight gain after childbirth during lactation is physiological - it is a side effect of hormones that stimulate milk production. Therefore, lactating women can only be advised to move more, and also to exclude easily digestible high-calorie foods (sweets, baked goods, etc.). During lactation, diets are contraindicated.

As a rule, after a period of feeding, weight gradually decreases as hormonal levels return to normal.

If during the post-lactation period, despite dietary restrictions and normal physical activity, your weight does not return to normal, you can suspect the presence of a hormonal imbalance.

Thus, you should consult a doctor in cases where the following symptoms are observed after childbirth and the end of the lactation period:

unmotivated weight gain;
signs of virilization (male pattern hair growth);
irregular menstrual cycle, spotting bleeding between periods;
symptoms of neurosis (headaches, irritability, drowsiness, etc.).

Such a hormonal imbalance after childbirth can be triggered by various unfavorable factors: stress, acute infectious diseases, exacerbation of chronic somatic ailments, gynecological pathology, overwork.

Signs of hormonal imbalance in women during menopause

Menopause is the period of attenuation of reproductive function. In women, it begins after 45 years of age and continues until the end of life. Irregular menstruation after 45 years of age is considered physiological phenomenon, if they do not lead to severe bleeding and are not accompanied by any unpleasant symptoms. It should be noted that for many women, the cessation of menstruation occurs suddenly and painlessly.

However, physiological decline of reproductive function today is less common than the so-called menopausal syndrome - a symptom complex caused by hormonal imbalance.

According to the time of onset, all symptoms of pathological menopause are divided into the following groups:
1. Early - appear two to three years before menopause (complete cessation of menstruation).
2. Delayed - develops over two to three years after menopause.
3. Late - occur five or more years after menopause.

TO early signs include the most characteristic symptom of hormonal imbalance during menopause syndrome - the so-called hot flashes, which are attacks of heat, especially strongly felt in the facial area.

Other early symptoms pathological menopause is in many ways similar to the signs of hormonal imbalance during premenstrual syndrome: psycho-emotional disorders (irritability, depression, increased fatigue), vegetative-vascular pathology (palpitations, lability of blood pressure, pain in the heart), possible attacks of migraine-like headaches.

Delayed symptoms are associated with a deficiency of female hormones - estrogen. Estrogen deficiency causes dystrophic lesions of the skin and its appendages.

These processes, as a rule, are most pronounced in relation to the mucous membranes of the female genital organs, and lead to the development of a complex of urogenital disorders (vaginal dryness, drooping of its walls, pain during sexual intercourse, discomfort during urination, urinary incontinence), in severe cases they occur inflammatory processes (cystitis, vulvovaginitis).

In addition, increased dry skin, brittle nails, and hair loss are often observed.

Late symptoms of hormonal imbalance during pathological menopause are signs of a gross disorder metabolic processes. Most characteristic systemic osteoporosis, disorders of lipid metabolism (vascular atherosclerosis) and carbohydrate metabolism (decreased glucose tolerance, development of type 2 diabetes mellitus).

The causes of hormonal imbalances during pathological menopause are not fully understood. However, the importance of hereditary predisposition has been proven. Stress is identified as provoking factors, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, bad habits (smoking, frequent alcohol abuse).

The risk group for the development of pathological menopause includes women with the following pathologies:
1. Neuroendocrine disorders: premenstrual syndrome, toxicosis of pregnancy and dysfunctional uterine bleeding in the anamnesis.
2. Diseases of the central nervous system: neuroinfections, neuroses, mental illnesses.
3. Gynecological pathologies: chronic inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, endometriosis.
4. Complicated obstetric history: abortions, miscarriages, difficult births.

Causes of hormonal imbalance in men

Male sex hormones (androgens) are produced in the sex glands - the testicles. Their products ensure the development of secondary sexual characteristics in boys, as well as tall growth, powerful muscles, and aggressiveness.

Interestingly, for the normal functioning of the male body, female sex hormones (estrogens) are also needed, so the blood healthy man contains more estrogen than the blood of a woman during menopause.

Clinical studies have proven that it is estrogens that ensure normal libido (sexual desire decreases with both an excess and a lack of female sex hormones in men). In addition, estrogens are responsible for normal sperm maturation and cognitive abilities, and also influence lipid metabolism. Another important function of estrogens is to ensure normal calcium metabolism in the bones.

Most of the estrogens in the male body are formed as a result of the transformation of testosterone in the liver and adipose tissue. Only a small percentage is synthesized directly in the gonads.

In men, as well as in women, the regulation of the activity of the gonads is coordinated with the help of a complex hypothalamic-pituitary system.

Thus, hormonal imbalances in men can occur as a result of direct damage to the testicles (congenital anomalies, trauma, infectious and inflammatory processes, etc.) and when the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary system is disrupted. Accordingly, primary and secondary hypogonadism are distinguished (primary and secondary failure production of male sex hormones).

Secondary hypogonadism ( hormonal deficiency central genesis) in men occurs for the same reasons as in women (tumors of the hypothalamic-pituitary zone, trauma, neuroinfections, birth defects development).

In addition, hormonal imbalance in men may be associated with an increase in the formation of estrogen from testosterone. This often happens during chronic intoxication, when the metabolism of androgens in the liver is disrupted and their transformation into estrogens increases (chronic alcoholism, drug use, professional contact with certain poisons, exposure to radiation).

Less commonly, deficiency of male hormones can be caused by endocrine pathologies (hyperthyroidism), hormone-active tumors, severe damage to the liver and kidneys, occurring with intoxication (uremia, liver failure).

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in men

Puberty

Just like in women, men experience untimely (too early or too late) sexual development. Despite the difference in the structure of the sexes, the causes and symptoms of untimely development are similar.

Precocious sexual development (PPD) in boys is usually associated with neoplasms of the hypothalamic-pituitary system. Constitutional early sexual development also occurs. With PPD, secondary sexual characteristics in boys appear before the age of 7-8 years, increased growth is observed, which suddenly stops in adolescence due to premature ossification of bone growth zones.

There are also false PPR associated with pathology of the adrenal cortex. In such cases, it is combined with obesity and other signs of metabolic disorders. A similar clinical picture develops when eating foods containing large amounts of hormones (milk and meat from animals that have been stimulated with steroid drugs).

Delayed sexual development (DPD) in boys is said to occur when development is delayed by more than two years compared to the average period. Hormonal imbalance in such cases is most often associated with damage to the central nervous system (trauma, infection, intoxication, etc.), endocrine pathology (obesity, thyroid pathology) or severe chronic diseases, leading to general exhaustion of the body.

When diagnosing ZPR, differential diagnosis should be made with hypogonadism (primary or secondary), and also take into account the possibility constitutional ZPR(hereditary features of development in healthy children).

Symptoms of hormonal imbalances in men of reproductive age

Hormonal imbalances in men of reproductive age, as a rule, occur with absolute or relative hyperestrogenemia, and are manifested by the following symptoms:

gynecomastia (enlarged mammary glands);
obesity;
disorders of the nervous system;
decreased libido, sexual and reproductive disorders.

Hormonal imbalance can be caused by the most for various reasons: both external (stress, unhealthy lifestyle, overeating, smoking, excessive drinking) and internal (diseases of the central nervous system, endocrine diseases, intoxication, severe liver or kidney damage). Therefore, the clinical picture will be supplemented by signs of the pathology that caused the hormonal imbalance.

Signs of hormonal imbalance during menopause in men

Normal in men sexual function gradually decreases with age. However, this process is often accompanied by a number of pathological symptoms, the totality of which is called “menopausal syndrome in men.”

With pathological menopause in men, as well as in women, symptoms of disorders of higher nervous activity come first:

irritability;
fatigue;
mood lability with a tendency to depression;
tearfulness;
low self-esteem;
feeling of uselessness;
panic attacks;
decreased cognitive and creative abilities.

Another characteristic symptom of pathological menopause in men is sharp decline sexual function, which is accompanied by disturbances from genitourinary system(painful urination, urinary incontinence, etc.).

Hormonal disruption is manifested by symptoms characteristic of relative hyperestrogenemia: mammary glands enlarge, rapid weight gain occurs with female-type fat deposits (on the abdomen, hips, chest), often the type of pubic hair growth resembles that of women, facial hair growth stops or weakens and on the body.

Dystrophic changes are rapidly increasing musculoskeletal system: osteoporosis, sagging and muscle weakness develops, patients complain of pain in the joints and bones.

Disorders of the cardiovascular system are very typical: pain in the heart area, palpitations, hypertension and atherosclerosis develop.

The skin becomes dry and atrophic, nails become brittle, and hair falls out.

Disorders of the vegetative-vascular system resemble the symptoms of female menopause: hot flashes and increased sweating are common.

The development of pathological menopause in men is facilitated by diseases of the central nervous system (traumatic brain injury, neuroinfections, intoxication), pathologies of the endocrine system (obesity, thyroid disease), liver disease, unhealthy lifestyle (physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, alcohol abuse, smoking) .

Hormonal imbalance can be caused by severe prolonged nervous tension or severe somatic disease. There is evidence of a hereditary predisposition to hormonal imbalances. In addition, men who have a history of hormonal imbalances (delayed sexual development, sexual dysfunction during the reproductive period) are at risk for the development of pathological menopause.

Diagnostics

If signs of hormonal imbalance appear, it is necessary to carry out a comprehensive medical examination, including all the necessary tests to determine the level of hormones, as well as a study of the condition of internal organs that could be affected by hormonal imbalance (diagnosis of osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, diabetes, etc.).

In addition, it is necessary to exclude severe organic pathologies, which often cause hormonal imbalance (hormone-producing tumors, severe damage to the central nervous system, liver cirrhosis with gynecomastia, etc.).

Of course, it must be carried out differential diagnosis between various neuroendocrine disorders (primary or secondary hypogonadism, hormonal deficiency or Itsenko-Cushing syndrome, etc.).

Treatment of hormonal imbalance

In cases where it is possible to radically eliminate the cause of hormonal imbalance (hormone-producing tumor), etiological treatment is carried out.

If the cause cannot be eliminated (menopausal syndrome, primary hypogonadism), hormone replacement therapy is prescribed according to indications.

Hormonal imbalances in women and men during the reproductive period can often be corrected by a course of hormonal medications, in cases where they are not caused by serious organic pathology.

A healthy lifestyle is of great importance in the treatment and prevention of hormonal imbalances in women and men: