The menstrual cycle is controlled by the complex interaction of four hormones: luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen and progesterone. But how do these hormones work and what happens to them during our cycle?
Hormones in the menstrual cycle
The first two, LH and FSH, are produced in the pituitary gland, a gland in the brain, and released into the bloodstream until they reach the ovary. There they stimulate the production and release of estrogen and progesterone, also known as female hormones. Estradiol is the hormone produced in the ovary during the first half of the cycle (proliferative phase) after being stimulated by FSH. Progesterone is the hormone produced in the second half of the cycle (luteal phase) by the corpus luteum, a structure that forms in the ovaries after ovulation.
These four hormones play a very important role during the menstrual cycle and increase or decrease depending on the timing of the cycle.
Hormones in the first half of the cycle - proliferative phase
From this beginning of the female cycle (first day of menstruation) and for about 7 days, FSH levels increase and stimulate estrogen production in the ovary. This causes the follicles to be selected and enlarge. When estrogen levels are too high, it inhibits FSH production so that a dominant follicle is selected. This results in only one follicle growing in each cycle. Before ovulation, the estrogen level drops again.
LH production remains at low levels during the first half of the menstrual cycle, peaking around day 14 of the cycle.
Hormones in the second half of the cycle - luteal phase
After ovulation, the corpus luteum starts producing progesterone and the levels increase in the second half of the cycle. This leads to changes in the uterus, preparing it for possible implantation in case of fertilization.
LH and FSH production decreases in this second half of the cycle. The estrogen level rises slightly again. At the end of the cycle, the decrease in LH levels leads to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels. This leads to shedding of the endometrium. As estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, PMS symptoms may increase until the pituitary gland increases FSH and LH production again and the new cycle begins. Symptoms usually begin in the second half of the menstrual cycle. They usually disappear 1 to 2 days after menstruation begins.
Hormonal imbalances and glucose: what happens?
A hormonal imbalance can affect this complex interaction between hormones, brain and reproductive organs. The following factors can help maintain hormonal balance.
- Healthy lifestyle habits (healthy and balanced diet and regular exercise).
- Healthy environmental conditions (avoid stress and ensure adequate sleep).
- Balancing the blood glucose level in a healthy range
By continuously measuring blood glucose levels, you can ensure stable blood glucose, as well as insulin levels.
Insulin plays a key role here. High insulin levels upset hormone production by the ovaries and affect the balance between estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. These imbalances affect female health. One of the first consequences is that PMS symptoms may worsen or increase. Many women have more sugar cravings during PMS (keyword: cravings) and suffer from fatigue and stress.
Find your balance and regulate your blood glucose levels with the help of a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and Hello Inside.
