What are phytoestrogens
The first part of the name “phyto” means “plant, plant,” but it would be a mistake to think that in the case of phytoestrogens we are talking about plant hormones.
In fact, substances are isolated from plants that have a similar effect on the female body as human estrogens.
With the help of such compounds, in some cases it is possible to normalize hormonal imbalances, alleviate symptoms of menopause, and restore reproductive function.
Function of natural estrogens:
- formation of secondary sexual characteristics
- breast growth
- genital health
- ability to conceive and bear a child
In addition, hormonal fluctuations affect the condition of the skin, hair, and bones.
Along with medications containing artificial, chemically synthesized hormones, therapy includes taking dietary supplements, vitamins, changing the diet with an increase in foods containing estrogens (if there is a deficiency) or excluding them from the menu (if there is an excess).
Prevention of hormonal imbalances
In case of hormonal imbalance, drugs are used that combat the consequences of negative factors; it is not always possible to influence the cause. Therefore, it is important to prevent the development of a pathological condition. Women are advised to eat well and avoid overeating and subsequent strict diets. Stress and lack of night sleep have a bad effect on the female body. You should not expose yourself to constant stress, mental and physical overload. Otherwise, the pathology of the menstrual cycle will enter a phase where it cannot be corrected.
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Who needs phytoestrogens?
Deterioration in well-being, menstrual irregularities, absence of menstruation, decreased sexual function, and problems with conception may indicate an imbalance of female hormones. However, the doctor will be able to make an accurate diagnosis after the analysis is done.
Blood from a vein is donated on an empty stomach from the second to the seventh day of the cycle (depending on its duration) and the estrogen content is determined. Only after this the doctor draws up an individual program that corrects hormonal levels.
Self-medication is fraught with serious consequences; excess hormones are a direct risk of developing severe pathologies of the genital area, including malignant tumors of the uterus, mammary glands, and ovaries.
Ways to restore hormone balance
If symptoms of pathology appear, you need to visit an obstetrician-gynecologist or endocrinologist to determine the causes of the failure and choose the right treatment. It is not recommended to do this on your own: it is impossible to determine the etiology of the disease by external signs alone, and fluctuations in different hormones can cause the same symptoms, but the treatment will be different.
Medication methods
Tablets for hormonal imbalance can only be used as prescribed by a doctor. Contraceptive medications most often help normalize the cycle. They are prescribed from the first day of the cycle in a continuous mode. Usually 3-6 months are enough for complete recovery.
If the problem is related to ovulation disorders and insufficiency of the second phase of the cycle due to ovarian pathology, Duphaston is prescribed. This drug is used to restore hormonal levels in women; it is an analogue of its own progesterone, so Duphaston is taken in the second half of the cycle.
In women during menopause, pills that normalize hormonal levels should repeat the natural release of estrogen and progesterone, therefore three-phase contraceptives are used, and after 50 years, special estrogen-gestagen agents are used.
In case of thyroid pathology, treatment of hormonal imbalance in women is carried out with iodine preparations or thyroid hormones.
Drug therapy is required in cases where oral contraceptives were stopped several months ago, and spontaneous menstruation has not begun. In this case, stimulation is carried out using clomiphene citrate.
If the pituitary gland or hypothalamus is damaged, hormone replacement therapy is prescribed. But in cases where the failure has led to the appearance of breast milk and hyperprolactinemia, drugs are prescribed that block the production of prolactin.
Diet
With the help of good nutrition, mild deviations can be normalized. A nutritious diet and the inclusion of animal products in food help. Mandatory components - eggs, animal fats. They contain cholesterol, which is the basis for the synthesis of sex steroids.
The diet should contain a lot of protein . It is also part of the basis of peptide hormones, which is why a plant-based diet or vegetarianism causes menstrual irregularities. Additional enrichment of the diet with vitamins helps. Vitamins A, E, C, as well as group B and microelements help restore hormonal levels.
Phytoestrogens in food
The content of natural estrogens in food is not high, but they quite actively bind to sensitive receptors on the surface of cells, normalizing the balance of hormones, both in case of deficiency and excess.
The duality of the work of phytoestrogens allows them to be used in therapy in both directions.
Products containing phytoestrogens are available, rich in vitamins and microelements, useful for both adult women after 40, with menopause at 50, and young girls during puberty, pregnant women for bearing a healthy child.
The largest amount of plant hormones is found in soybeans . For a long time it was believed that women living in Asian countries are less susceptible than European women to diseases of the reproductive system, benign neoplasms and cancer because legumes, including soy, make up a large share of their diet.
Today, this hypothesis has been refuted; in addition to nutrition, it is necessary to pay attention to lifestyle in general, but phytoestrogens should not be underestimated.
Isoflavones - genistein, daidzein, equol - have an antioxidant effect, serve to prevent cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and regulate blood glucose levels.
The main action is contact with estrogen receptors, which allows you to reduce or increase the amount of estrogen.
Flax-seed
Flax seeds are credited with truly magical properties; they help you lose weight and look younger, cleanse your intestines and improve their functioning, and improve the condition of your skin and hair.
Phytoestrogens are formed in the human intestine under the influence of enzymes, but it is preferable to use flaxseed flour or flaxseed oil, rich in unsaturated fatty acids.
Consumption of large quantities of seeds in their pure form can cause serious harm to the body, including blockage of the intestinal lumen and the occurrence of intestinal obstruction.
Red grapes
Resveratrol is a phytohormone found in the skins of red grapes , red wine, peanuts, blueberries, cocoa, and nuts. In addition to balancing estrogen, resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects, lowers blood glucose levels, and has a beneficial effect on the condition of the heart and blood vessels.
Fruits
Fruits containing phytoestrogens - apples, pomegranates, papaya, cherries, plums.
Vegetables
Vegetables rich in phytohormones - ginger, carrots, parsley, broccoli, white and cauliflower, garlic, asparagus, celery, potatoes.
Vegetable oils
It is useful to season vegetable dishes with vegetable oils with natural estrogens. The diet should contain flaxseed oil, olive oil, soybean oil, sesame oil, palm oil, and coconut oil.
The same oils can be used to prepare masks and homemade creams.
Culinary recipes with phytoestrogens for female beauty
Snacks
- Cut the green apple into cubes, add leafy green salad, celery and cilantro (basil), a handful of walnuts or pine nuts, salt, season with 1 tbsp. l. olive (soybean) oil mixed with ½ tsp. apple cider vinegar.
- Boil brown rice, add boiled beans, diced tomato, egg yolk and canned fish.
- Season the salad with oil and sprinkle with lemon juice.
- Chop the tomato, cucumber, lettuce, avocado, add boiled chicken breast (diced), pomegranate seeds, pickled mushrooms. Dress the salad with oil and lemon juice.
First meal
- cabbage soup with fresh cabbage and porcini mushrooms;
- pea soup;
- creamy soup with broccoli and champignons;
- bean soup
Second courses
- potatoes baked with mushrooms;
- vegetable stew of tomatoes, zucchini and herbs with cheese;
- pumpkin casserole with cherry sauce;
- rice with vegetables
Natural estrogens in herbs
Teas, decoctions, and infusions have a less pronounced therapeutic effect, but they should not be discounted.
- Clover is considered the champion among medicinal plants in terms of phytoestrogens content . Healing preparations based on it stabilize the emotional background in case of hormonal disorders. They reduce nervousness and irritability, normalize sleep, improve microcirculation in the pelvis, restoring the mucous membrane and preventing dryness and itching in the vagina. In addition, taking medications with red clover normalizes urination, restores libido, relieves fatigue, and reduces swelling and pain in the mammary glands. Headaches go away, skin condition improves.
- Borovaya uterus is a remedy for the treatment of hormonal disorders. Tincture of boron uterus is taken an hour before meals, 30 drops, three times a day. Most often, after three weeks of treatment, they take a break for a week and then resume treatment. Taking boron uterus can last for several months.
- Hop cones are brewed with boiling water, left for 30-40 minutes, filtered and drunk morning and evening, ½ cup. Hops are present in beer brewed according to the canons of brewing.
- The red brush replaces the hog queen after the end of the course. Drink red brush tincture an hour and a half before meals, 30 drops diluted in a spoonful of boiled water in the morning and evening. Taking the red brush can be quite long.
- Shepherd's purse herb is brewed with boiling water and drunk instead of tea. 1 tbsp. l. pour 0.3 liters of water, leave in a thermos for an hour, strain. You should drink in small portions throughout the day.
- Linden flowers are mixed with chamomile flowers, brewed with boiling water and drunk instead of black tea.
Review of dietary supplements for normalizing hormonal levels
Barlean's Organic Oils Essential Woman
Barlean's Organic Oils Essential Woman is a dietary supplement based on flaxseed oil. One package of 1000 mg contains 120 capsules. The average price is 2000 rubles. It is necessary to take 3-9 capsules per day before or after meals. In addition to normalizing hormonal levels, this dietary supplement can strengthen hair and nails, as well as improve skin condition. Suitable for women of any age.
Astrum Fem Complex
Astrum Fem Complex is a dietary supplement that combines many ingredients. The roots of the Dong Qua plant normalize the menstrual cycle, the roots of Wild Yam reduce premenstrual pain, the fruits of the CO Palmetto plant improve blood circulation and Fenugreek seeds have an antiseptic effect. One package contains 60 tablets. The average price is 1000 rubles. It is recommended to take 1 tablet 3 times a day with meals. The dietary supplement regulates the second phase of the menstrual cycle especially well.
Hog queen
Borovaya uterus - dietary supplement in drops of 50 ml or in bags of 25 - 30 grams (dry herb). Depending on the manufacturer, the price ranges from 60 to 200 rubles. It is an additional source of flavonoids and attribute. Use 30 drops diluted with water 3 times a day before meals. Or 1 bag of herb is brewed with a glass of boiling water and left for 15 minutes, after which you need to take 1 tablespoon before meals 3 times a day.
Combined Oral Contraceptives
Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) are hormonal contraceptives. But they are widely used as dietary supplements to normalize hormonal levels in women, due to the presence of estrogen and progestogen. There are such varieties of COCs as mono-, two-, three- and multiphase. Depending on the type, company and specific name of the COC, prices vary from 500 to 1,500 rubles. Since the main effect is contraceptive, mandatory consultation with a specialist is necessary before use.
Mastodinon
Mastodinon is a dietary supplement based on Abraham tree, cohosh, chilibuha, cyclamen, iris and lily. Regulates the functioning of the genital organs by reducing the production of the hormone prolactin. Price from 350 to 500 rubles per pack of 100 ml drops or 60 tablets. In any dosage form, mastodinone is recommended to be taken before or after meals, the dosage is prescribed by a doctor.
Remens
Remens is a dietary supplement based on black cohosh, sanguinaria, pilocarpus and snake venom. The average price for a pack of 12 or 36 tablets is 165 or 450 rubles, for a pack of 50 ml drops. 450 rubles. The dosage is 10 drops or 1 tablet 3 times a day. Remens is used for any menstrual irregularities to restore hormonal balance.
Stella
Stella is a dietary supplement based on the active action of three compounds at once. Extracts of green tea, cruciferous vegetables and non-genetically modified soybeans can normalize estrogen metabolism in a woman’s body. The average price is 1000 rubles for 45 capsules per package. The package contains yellow, green and red capsules, which must be taken in accordance with the instructions intermittently. Stella is intended to normalize estrogens, on which a woman’s hormonal balance depends.
There are many supplements available in different price ranges. Dietary supplements for normalizing hormonal levels in women are the first and important step to maintaining health. But only a specialist can help you choose exactly what’s right for you.
Finished dosage forms
At the pharmacy you can purchase medications with phytoestrogens, available in the form of tablets or capsules.
- To relieve the symptoms of menopause, the non-hormonal drug Qi-klim is suitable. It contains black cohosh extract and helps relieve symptoms of menopause. These are hot flashes, nervousness, irritability, sleep disturbance, increased sweating, dry mucous membranes. The following drugs are produced based on black cohosh: Estrovel, Klimadinon, Feminalgin, Klimaktoplan.
- Soybean extract is contained in the preparations Inoclim, Bonisam, Femiwell.
- Feminal based on red clover
- Femicaps with evening primrose, passionflower, aspenberry and vitex.
- Tribulus terrestris is kept in Tribestan
- Remens contains sanguinaria, cohosh, pilocarpus, along with an extract from cuttlefish glands and snake venom.
- Hawthorn, horsetail, soybean and bedstraw are included in the composition of the drug Klimafit-911.
In addition to medications, taking vitamin and mineral complexes is indicated.
Cosmetics with phytoestrogens
Cream with phytoestrogens for the face contains phytohormones in small concentrations. It acts directly on the skin in the place where it is applied and you can’t expect miracles from it.
Manufacturers often use the mention of phytoestrogens as a bait for buyers.
When making a choice for yourself in favor of natural cosmetics, you should give preference to products from serious manufacturing companies that do not spare money on dermatological tests and tests.
At home, you can make masks or lotions with decoctions of medicinal herbs. Just make sure you are not allergic to them first.
You need to be very careful when using bust enlargement products. To date, only one known means of breast enlargement is mammoplasty. Everything else is advertising for gullible young ladies with modest figures.
Whatever goals you would like to achieve with the help of products with phytoestrogens, you should consult your doctor before taking them. Excess of female hormones negatively affects women's health. A benign tumor, fibroids, a disease of women of reproductive age - the body’s response to increased levels of estrogen.
The benefits of vitamin E for women
Vitamin E (tocopherol) belongs to the antioxidant group of vitamins. The daily requirement for this vitamin is 8-10 IU. It has a positive effect on the woman's reproductive system. The female reproductive system is regulated by the cerebral cortex - hypothalamus - pituitary gland - ovaries system. The mechanism that prepares a woman monthly for the process of conception is the woman’s menstrual cycle (MC).
The hypothalamus controls and regulates the functioning of the pituitary gland, in the anterior lobe of which gonadotropic hormones are produced (GTH - follicle-stimulating FSH and luteinizing hormone - LH). GTG, in turn, stimulate and regulate the activity of the ovaries. Under the influence of FSH, the follicle with the egg inside it matures in the first half of the MC. In addition, FSH stimulates the secretion of female sex hormones estrogen and the growth of the mucous membrane (endometrium) in the uterine cavity.
In the second half of the MC after ovulation, which occurs under the influence of LH from the pituitary gland, the endocrine gland, the corpus luteum, is formed, producing another female sex hormone - progesterone. This hormone prepares the endometrium to receive the embryo. If pregnancy does not occur, then hormonal support decreases, and the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity is rejected - menstruation occurs.
The positive effect of tocopherol on a woman’s sexual function is that it stimulates the activity of the pituitary gland and participates in the formation of GTG - FSH and LH, thus affecting the functioning of the ovaries, the processes of egg maturation, ovulation and preparation of the uterine cavity for penetration into its wall embryo.
HORMONAL BACKGROUND: The best herbs for women
What to do when the body needs to maintain the proper functioning of the hormonal system, but there is no trust in the drugs.
At any age, a woman needs to maintain healthy hormonal levels.
There are many causes of hormone problems, and they can be successfully treated with medications.
Not all medications are safe for women and do not cause side effects.
After taking certain medications to normalize hormonal levels, women experienced heart pathologies and low blood pressure, despite the absence of chronic diseases.
What to do when the body needs to maintain the proper functioning of the hormonal system, but there is no trust in the drugs?
It is allowed to use medicinal herbs containing phytohormones that support the work of sweat and sebaceous glands, epidermal cells and allow the skin to remain wrinkle-free, elastic and healthy.
However, not all plants normalize hormonal levels, so before using, you should familiarize yourself with the herbs: find out how they work, when to take them and how to prepare them.
Medications for normalization of elevated hormonal levels
Reducing ovarian activity with drugs is usually a more difficult task than carrying out replacement therapy. This is explained by the fact that most often the cause of excess hormones is a tumor. It must be removed to normalize hormonal balance. Drugs with an inhibitory effect are most often recommended for an excess of male sex steroids - hyperandrogenism syndrome.
High estrogens
To reduce their synthesis, they act on the hypothalamus, inhibiting the secretion of gonadotropic releasing factor. Preparations for this purpose are Zoladex, Diferelin, Decapeptyl. They are indicated for endometriosis, fibroids, and are also used in artificial insemination programs. Their introduction leads to thinning of the endometrium and a decrease in the size of uterine fibroids. This helps stop severe forms of uterine bleeding.
Long-acting progesterone Depo-Provera has a similar effect. It leads to the disappearance of menstruation for a long time. Tamoxifen has a specific antiestrogenic effect. Its area of application is the tumor process in the mammary gland. To treat excess estrogen, contraceptives, a combination of chronic gonadotropin and progesterone, are also used.
Excess progesterone
Treatment of elevated hormone levels is carried out using combined gestagen-estrogen contraceptive pills. Before starting therapy, it is important to exclude disease of the adrenal cortex, which is often the cause of an increase in progesterone in the blood.
To block the effects of the hormone, tablets are also prescribed that disrupt the activity of its receptors - Ginestril, Esmiya. They are indicated for uterine fibroids in preparation for surgery. Long-term treatment is recommended for women with uterine bleeding in the premenopausal period. Small doses of Ginestril are used for emergency contraception in case of unprotected sexual intercourse.
When should you take herbal hormones?
Plant hormones are primarily necessary for mature women; in addition, changes in hormonal levels occur due to menopause and the menstrual cycle.
Menopause is considered a difficult period in a woman's life. The body changes, the functioning of the hormonal system is restructured, as a result of which the character changes and health becomes worse.
Often a woman behaves unpredictably and aggressively, her weight increases, and various diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular and genitourinary systems appear.
Hormonal imbalance is caused by a deficiency of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
During menopause, it is recommended to consume herbs containing plant hormones, the most famous of which are soybeans, celery, red clover, lentils, and cabbage.
Medicinal plants are useful because they contain phytoestrogens, which help a woman overcome the symptoms of menopause and prevent complications of this period.
A healthy hormonal balance is also necessary during the monthly cycle. In order for both physical and mental state to remain normal, a woman should drink tea with certain herbs every day of the menstrual cycle.
There are three periods:
1. Menstruation . During critical days, the endometrium is renewed, so it is not recommended to use herbs or any other medications; it is advisable to limit the presence of meat and fatty foods in the diet.
If you have low hemoglobin, you can drink tea with nettle.
2. Folliculin phase . It is considered the first phase of the cycle and lasts from the end of menstruation until the moment of ovulation. The duration of the follicular phase is variable and depends on many factors. From the first days you need to drink herbal teas.
During this period, the body needs active production of estrogen for the successful maturation of follicles. Experts advise women to take sage tea, which promotes the production of proper hormones.
In addition, sage is considered a rejuvenating plant that will keep the body in good shape and give strength.
You should drink tea with sage carefully, in small volumes, once a day. You can replace sage with licorice, which has similar properties.
3. Luteal phase . The second phase begins after ovulation and ends at the time of menstrual bleeding. These days are marked by low estrogen activity and an increase in progesterone synthesis, which affects the ability to become pregnant and breastfeed.
It is advisable to drink infusions or teas from woodruff, Chernobyl and sleep-grass, which replenish the deficiency of the necessary hormone.
Herbal tablets and medicines
For replacement therapy of menopausal deficiency of female sex hormones, medications with herbal extracts are successfully used. Their action is based on the content of phytoestrogens. This therapy helps to get rid of the symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, sweating, changes in blood pressure, irritability); with a course of use, sleep is normalized and performance improves.
Trade names of drugs:
- Klimadinon,
- Shimidona Uno,
- Klimaktoplan,
- Estro pause,
- Inoclim,
- Estrovel.
Although they have a non-hormonal composition, they are prescribed only by a doctor during menopause. This is explained by the fact that it is not always possible to stimulate the formation of estrogen. If taken uncontrolled, bleeding may occur and the risk of breast tumors increases.
For girls with irregular cycles, premenstrual syndrome, and ovarian dysfunction, vitamin therapy and medications that normalize menstruation are used. These include:
If there is insufficient production of sex hormones, replacement therapy is used. They contain synthetic analogues of estrogens and progesterone. Human chorionic gonadotropin is used to stimulate the ovaries.
And here is more information about female sex hormones.
Drugs that act on the hypothalamus, long-acting progesterones, antiestrogens, progesterone receptor blockers, and antiandrogens help suppress the increased formation of hormones. For functional disorders, herbal remedies are effective. All medications should be prescribed by a gynecologist after a full examination, since improper use causes serious complications.
What plant hormones are good for women?
The peoples of Asia are known for their longevity and slow aging.
A study of traditional food in Asian countries revealed that the diet of these people mainly includes soy products.
Soy is known for the fact that it contains the same estrogens that are beneficial for women's health.
In addition to this plant, phytohormones are also found in other herbs, although soy is considered the most effective remedy during menopause.
Today there are more than 70 types of herbs in which plant hormones are observed, mainly substances with estrogenic activity.
The plants have virtually no side effects; however, the correct dosage must be taken.
The following plants are no less successful in restoring hormonal balance:
Cuff is considered an indispensable plant for female hormones at any age. It is taken as an infusion: add boiled water to a tablespoon, let it brew and filter. The infusion is useful to take during menopause and after childbirth.
In addition, teas, infusions and decoctions of linden and blackberry restore hormonal balance.
Herbalism and traditional medicine
Traditional medicine has always been in demand, and scientists still study unconventional recipes with interest.
It has been proven more than once that herbal medicine has a number of advantages over chemical drugs:
- long-term experience of use;
- minimal complications, no addiction;
- the opportunity to prepare a decoction, tea or infusion with your own hands.
However, not all herbs are completely safe for a woman’s health, but inaction is not recommended, since more often than not it is indifference to diseases that causes more harm.
It is important to remember: not all diseases can be cured with herbs. For example, hormone-producing tumors cannot be removed using traditional methods; surgical intervention is necessary. In other cases, the female body needs to be supported throughout her life with the help of hormonal therapy. Therefore, herbal treatment for hormonal imbalance should be carried out only after consultation with your doctor.
For diseases of the endocrine system, herbal medicine is carried out over a long period of time and is combined with other hormonal drugs or measures.
In certain situations, herbs play a different role in treatment: they can be used as additional measures (thyroid pathology, diabetes mellitus) or as the main method of therapy.
Herbal therapy is also used as a method of preventing disruption of the hormonal system. When using, you should follow the correct dosage and if you have any complaints about your health, consult your doctor in time. published by econet.ru. If you have any questions on this topic, ask them to the experts and readers of our project here .
PS And remember, just by changing your consumption, we are changing the world together! © econet
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Phytohormones for women: safe prolongation of youth
Having crossed the forty-year mark, not many women are ready for menopause. Irritability, headaches, increased sweating, the appearance of body hair - all these menopausal symptoms cause discomfort and negatively affect the quality of life.
All these processes occur due to changes in a woman’s hormonal levels. Safe herbal remedies - phytohormones for menopause - will help remove unpleasant symptoms and slow down the aging process.
Hormonal imbalances
At any age, a woman can experience hormonal imbalances, most often they are associated with lifestyle and other pathologies, sometimes the cause cannot be determined. In these cases, treatment is selected empirically.
Hormonal changes can be primary; disturbances in hormone levels appear due to genetic abnormalities and congenital pathologies of the reproductive organs. Secondary changes appear in women who initially had a normal and regular menstrual cycle.
Why do violations occur?
The secretion of sex hormones has complex multi-level regulation. The main center that sends signals is the cerebral cortex. It affects the functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland due to the release of neurotransmitters:
- serotonin, it is called the hormone of happiness;
- dopamine;
- norepinephrine – a stress hormone;
- gamma-aminobutyric acid – the main participant in the processes of excitation and inhibition of the cortex.
Phytohormones for women
Even ancient healers noticed the healing power of plants. Some representatives of the flora contain substances similar in their action to female hormones. Thanks to these properties, unique products have emerged that have a gentle effect on a woman’s body during menopause. They are called phytohormones.
What is menopause
Menopause is a physiological state of a woman associated with the decline of ovarian function upon the onset of menopause, accompanied by changes in the hormonal levels of the female body.
- frequent mood swings, irritability, tearfulness;
- absence of menstruation;
- headache;
- hair loss, brittle nails;
- the appearance of unwanted body hair;
- metabolic disorders, weight gain;
- increased sweating, frequent hot flashes;
- deterioration of skin condition;
- insomnia.
Menopausal syndrome most often occurs in women aged 45-50 years. Nowadays menopause has become younger and some people begin to suffer after 40 years. There is no need to self-medicate, ask friends for advice, first of all you need to contact a gynecologist.
The doctor will select individual, competent treatment depending on your condition.
How to restore hormonal levels in women?
A woman's regular menstrual cycle is the main indicator of her health. But under the influence of external and internal factors, disorders can occur that are associated with changes in the cyclicity of release or the level of sex hormones. Sometimes the condition stabilizes on its own. But more often it is necessary to normalize hormonal levels using special methods.
Sources of phytohormones
Phytoestrogens are found in large quantities in plants, legumes, cereals, etc. Clover and soybeans contain the largest amount of plant estrogens. Having information about which foods contain benefits for the female body, it is possible to begin the fight against menopause by creating the right diet.
Beans, peas, lentils, flax, sunflowers, soybeans are part of the list of foods useful for women after 40 years. Eating foods is usually not enough; hormonal therapy is required.
Phytohormones for women will become indispensable in the treatment of menopause. In addition to the fact that they effectively combat the main manifestations of menopause, they additionally have a preventive effect against breast cancer.
Another advantage is the absence of side effects. The only exception is individual intolerance to any of the components. In this case, a qualified gynecologist will help you choose another phytohormone that will be ideal for you.
Features of treatment of hormonal levels at different ages
Changes in hormonal levels at each age occur for their own reasons. For women of the active reproductive period, deviations are a signal of possible organic pathologies and the presence of systemic diseases. In teenage girls, pathological changes are functional in nature and often disappear as they grow older. As menopause approaches, all abnormal menstrual cycles and other health signals are manifestations of physiological decline in ovarian function, but they can be alleviated with proper treatment.
In young girls
For adolescents, menarche, or first menstruation, begins on average at age 13. In the first 1-2 years, its irregularity is allowed, and the final formation of the cycle occurs by the age of 18. But in girls, the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary system is unstable, so due to high loads at school, exhausting classes in sports sections, stress and nervous shock, a malfunction may occur.
You can restore hormonal levels without hormonal drugs if you relieve the teenager of worries, provide good emotional support in the family, and regulate the daily and sleep patterns. Moderate physical activity and a nutritious diet help. But you need to see a doctor for pills in case of intermenstrual bleeding, prolonged periods that last more than 7 days. In this case, hemostatic therapy is prescribed using the following drugs:
- sodium ethamsylate;
- aminocaproic acid;
- combined oral contraceptives.
After effective treatment, they switch to a continuous regimen of oral contraceptives for 3 months.
During menopause
During menopause, it is more difficult to get rid of changes in hormone synthesis.
This is a physiological process that is associated with a decrease in ovarian function. It is impossible to stimulate their work, so treatment is aimed at compensating for the deficiency of biologically active substances and reducing the negative consequences of the malfunction. The main therapy is carried out with estrogen-gestagen drugs . In women with a removed uterus, only estrogens can be used and there is no fear of developing cancer. If there are contraindications to estrogens, use pure gestagens.
If there are absolute contraindications to hormonal therapy, they switch to herbal medicine or homeopathic remedies. They act gently and have fewer side effects, but to get results you need to take the medications long-term and continuously.
How to use herbal remedies
The therapeutic effect of phytohormones does not occur immediately; these agents have a cumulative effect. The first signs of improvement begin a couple of weeks after starting treatment. The effect of photo products is not as pronounced and rapid as that of synthetic hormones.
Hormone replacement therapy has a number of side effects. In addition, when a woman has a history of diseases that are absolute contraindications to the use of hormones, taking phytohormones will be a life-saving solution.
Japanese researchers argue that maintaining women's health must begin in advance by including foods containing plant estrogens in the daily diet: fish, seafood, soybeans, flaxseed and vegetable oils, rice, lentils, etc.
After 40 years, you can start using photo products after consulting with your doctor, who will select the correct dosage of the drug. With an increased content of phytohormones in the body, it leads to dyspeptic disorders: nausea, vomiting against the background of headache, as well as scanty discharge from the female genitalia.
When taking phytohormones, it should be taken into account that some factors can significantly reduce the absorption of drugs:
- smoking does not allow phytoestrogens to be fully absorbed;
- consumption of alcoholic beverages;
- insufficient dietary fiber intake.
Indications for use
Phytohormones for women should be used strictly according to indications:
- If menstruation has stopped before the age of 45. This is considered premature termination, which can lead to hormonal imbalance.
- The woman had an irregular menstrual cycle long before menopause.
- When the ovaries are removed, a complete hormonal change occurs in the body.
- After chemotherapy to restore the body.
- Various heart pathologies, circulatory disorders.
- A woman who has diabetes.
- High blood pressure.
- The first signs of osteoporosis: fatigue, morning cramps in the legs, etc.
Phytohormones for women are recommended to be taken by women for whom synthetic hormones are contraindicated. They are ideal for heart disease, kidney disease, and low body weight.
Effect of drugs
Phytohormones can be purchased at the pharmacy. They are available in the form of dietary supplements; you do not need a prescription to purchase them. It is better not to self-medicate, but to follow the recommendations of the treating doctor.
Lists of phytohormones
Clymandion. The basis of the product is extract from black cohosh root. It has a good calming effect, fights irritability and sleep disturbances. The effect becomes noticeable after 7 days of use. Climandion effectively relieves the symptoms of menopause.
Remens. An effective remedy for restoring a woman’s hormonal levels during menopause. Intense headaches go away, sweat production is regulated, and cardiovascular activity is normalized.
Feminal. Based on an extract of clover - one of the most effective and popular plants containing phytoestrogen. Acts like female sex hormones. Hot flashes are quite rare, the symptoms of menopause are smoothed out, and the condition of the skin and nails improves.
Incolim. Herbal preparation based on soybeans. Effective against the symptoms of menopausal syndrome, eliminates insomnia, gives vigor and efficiency.
Climaxan. Ingredients: extract from apis and black cohosh. First of all, this drug affects the normalization of the psychological state. Eliminates irritability, frequent mood swings, insomnia, migraine attacks. Another feature of it is that it is prescribed for those with a tendency to allergic reactions.
With all the variety of herbal medicines, despite the same indications, they have an individual effect on each patient. Therefore, it would be correct if the treating gynecologist prescribes the drug and its dosage.
What pills are used for hormonal deficiency?
Depending on which hormones are missing in a woman’s body (progesterone, estrogen), appropriate medications are selected. Sometimes additional stimulation with human chorionic gonadotropin may be required.
Estrogen deficiency
The main drugs in tablets are Livial, Proginova, Femoston. They also produce gels for application to the skin - Estrogel, Divigel, estrogen patch - Estramon, suppositories - Kolpotrofin, Ovestin.
Indications for the use of estrogens include:
- delayed sexual development in girls;
- menopause or artificial menopause after surgery;
- prevention of atherosclerosis and osteoporosis after decreased ovarian function.
The use of drugs has the following effect:
- increased sexual desire;
- normalization of mood;
- reduction of irritability, hot flashes, sweating;
- improved sleep;
- strengthening bone tissue;
- restoration of fat metabolism, reduction of cholesterol and triglycerides, which reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke in menopause;
- prevention of vaginal and urinary tract dryness, urinary incontinence.
Contraindications include:
- tumor processes;
- gynecological bleeding of unknown origin;
- severe liver disease;
- complicated course of diabetes mellitus;
- tendency to thrombus formation, in the past thrombosis of deep veins, pulmonary arteries;
- hyperplasia (proliferation) of the endometrium (inner layer of the uterus);
- angina pectoris, previous heart attack.
And here is more information about vitamins for a woman’s hormonal levels.
Lack of progesterone
The most common means for correcting progesterone deficiency are Utrozhestan and Duphaston. In some cases, Primolut nor, Orgametril, Ingesta are used.
Indications for use include:
- threat of miscarriage;
- absence of menstruation (amenorrhea), delay, irregular cycle;
- infertility due to lack of progesterone;
- dysfunctional bleeding (increased blood loss alternating with delays);
- endometrial hyperplasia (used in the second phase of the cycle);
- mastopathy, bloating and pain in the mammary glands.
Under the influence of progesterone:
- the fertilized egg attaches to the wall of the uterus;
- Uterine tone decreases, the wall of the uterus relaxes and its cavity expands for the free development of the fetus;
- milk leakage occurs after childbirth;
- fat is stored under the skin and glucose in the liver in the form of glycogen to create energy reserves.
Contraindications include:
- suspicion of a tumor;
- identified neoplasm;
- uterine bleeding for an unknown reason.
Uterine bleeding for an unknown reason
Progesterone is used with caution in patients with a tendency to thrombosis, diabetes and liver disease, or a history of acute circulatory disorders.
Hypogonadism
In case of inhibition of puberty, absence of menstruation in girls, as well as to stimulate ovulation when planning pregnancy, human chorionic gonadotropin can be prescribed. It helps the formation of estrogen in the first phase of the menstrual cycle and progesterone in the second. Preparations based on it are combined with tablets containing sex hormones.
The most prescribed drugs include Pregnil and Horagon. They are contraindicated for tumors, cysts in the ovaries (except for polycystic syndrome), and ectopic pregnancy in the past 3 months.
Plants with phytoestrogens
For negative symptoms, in addition to medications, it is possible to use herbal infusions. To prepare, you need to pour 1 tablespoon of chopped dry herb with a glass of boiling water. Let the decoction steep for 15 minutes and use it as tea. For greater effect, herbs are added to the bath.
List of the most effective medicinal herbs:
- red brush – rhodiola, is most effective for normalizing hormonal imbalances;
- mint has a calming effect;
- cohosh – regulates metabolic processes, improves the condition of the cardiovascular system;
- clover – contains some of the most powerful phytoestrogens;
- motherwort – has a pronounced calming effect;
- sage – has a tonic effect;
- rosemary – improves blood circulation, has a positive effect on skin and nails;
- hops – effectively calms the nervous system.