Your Hormones And Fertility
Hormones are the chemical signals sent throughout the bloodstream to trigger hundreds of different actions necessary for optimal health. These chemical signals are produced by glands in various locations to activate specific functions. Hormones are part of the endocrine system, responsible for metabolism, growth, mood, and reproduction. Unless there is an apparent physical injury or condition, hormones are perhaps the biggest indicator of optimal fertility. Hormones help with egg and sperm development, ovulation, and pregnancy preparation. Here are 4 things to know about hormones and fertility.
1. The 4 horsemen of fertility
When people think about fertility, testosterone in men and estrogen in women come to mind. Yet, there are 4 little-known hormones that are responsible for fertility. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) trigger the ovaries to develop follicles and sperm in men. Estradiol, a type of estrogen, helps promote ovulation and conception, while progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation. These 4 hormones must be produced at the right times and in appropriate amounts for conceiving. Doctors usually test for these hormones in individuals with fertility challenges.
2. It's all about balance
Hormones like FSH and LH depend on balance. Too much or too little FSH and LH can disrupt the menstrual cycle while limiting egg production. In men, FSH and LH can lead to poor sperm count, leading to infertility. Estradiol and progesterone imbalances can prevent successful implantation and maintenance of a fertilized egg. In other words, women can experience failed implantation or repeated miscarriages. Imbalances are often signs of an underlying issue impacting pregnancy, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis. Knowing these hormone levels can help doctors apply the appropriate treatment to regulate hormones and increase conception rates.
3. Age and lifestyle factors affect fertility
Most people will have balanced hormones in early adulthood. This period is when women and men are most fertile and have little issues conceiving. However, these essential hormones change with age. Women will see a decline in estrogen, FSH, and LH from age 30. These changes coincide with a diminished ovarian reserve. The success rates for a natural pregnancy decline from age 35, heading into a woman's early 40s. While men can still conceive, there will be a reduction in sperm quality. Before the age where a natural decline is expected, hormones can be impacted by lifestyle changes. Poor sleep, a poor diet, alcohol use, and stress can cause hormonal imbalances. Certain diseases or medication use also impact fertility hormones. These issues must be considered during fertility treatment.
4. Fertility treatment involves delicate hormone therapy
Hormones play the biggest role in fertility treatment. Thanks to procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF), people with fertility challenges can have children. The method requires the creation of embryos using multiple retrieved eggs combined with a sperm sample. Exogenous FSH and LH help to create multiple follicles. When the embryos are ready, estrogen and progesterone help prepare the uterine lining for implantation. IVF patients must take hormone medication in the correct dosage and timing. The patient, pharmacist, doctor, and other teams like pharmacy hubs must work together to ensure the patient gets hormone treatment on time.
Establishing your fertility future
Hormones play a delicate role in fertility and pregnancy. Both women and men with optimal hormones have a greater chance of a healthy pregnancy. With infertility, the problem can stem from hormone imbalances, especially in women. Age and lifestyle often exacerbate imbalances, leading to treatment options like IVF. If getting pregnant naturally is a challenge, start a fertility conversation with a doctor. Along the journey, managing hormones through medication will be the foundation for success. Get the right support to ensure long-term success.
