Researchers
from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviewed recent research
on the hormonal triggers underlying depression in women. Noting
that females are twice as likely as men to experience unipolar depression,
the authors examined how the female reproductive system interacts
with
the HPA-axis, which regulates the body's stress response, to set
the biochemical stage for psychological disorders in women.1
Through the HPA-axis, stress exerts a powerful impact on a woman's
reproductive hormones. This can dramatically disrupt her patterns
of ovulation--causing amenorrhea and infertility in extreme cases.
But it's a
two-way street. Because of various feedback mechanisms in the body,
fluctuations in sex hormone levels such as estradiol and progesterone
also influence the secretion of important stress hormones.
When this interplay becomes chronically imbalanced--during puberty,
menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause--behavior and mood disorders
often increase dramatically. Depression, eating disorders, alcoholism
or
other addictions may occur with the estrogen-induced disruption
of normal
HPA function.
As with many of the body's physiological responses, balance is the
key.
Overactivity of the body's stress system is associated with melancholia
(anxiety, insomnia, loss of libido), while underactivity is linked
to atypical depression (fatigue, lethargy, indifference). The investigators
examined the role of stress and sex hormones in a group of women
suffering from post-partum depression. They found that chronic hypersecretion
of cortisol in pregnancy induces a temporary suppression of adrenal
function soon after delivery, and, combined with the sudden drop
in estrogen levels, may contribute to post-partum depression and
subsequent immune dysfunction.
The Female
Hormone Profile is a salivary analysis of the female
hormones estradiol and progesterone over the complete course of
a menstrual cycle. The comprehensive version includes assays of
the adrenal
hormones cortisol and DHEA, for a more comprehensive assessment
of how
hormone activity may impacting depression and other disorders.
Related Information:
Depression and Adrenal Hormones
Resources:
1 Chrousos
GP, Torpy DJ, Gold PW. Interactions between the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal
Axis and the Female Reproductive System: Clinical Implications.
Ann Int Med 1998;129(3):229-240.
Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed
and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification
and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing
this disorder.
For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit
our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and
click on appropriate test for information.
Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had
a clinical practice for over 20
years. Her programs work because
she is so thorough in testing and
providing a nutritional approach.
Remember that the body can heal
itself if given the proper nutrients.
The information herein is not
intended as diagnosis, treatment
or a cure. Should you have a medical
condition please seek the advice
of your medical doctor. |
