From the FDA Drug Label
Estrogens act through binding to nuclear receptors in estrogen-responsive tissues. Circulating estrogens modulate the pituitary secretion of the gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), through a negative feedback mechanism.
Hormones work by binding to nuclear receptors in estrogen-responsive tissues and modulating the pituitary secretion of gonadotropins, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), through a negative feedback mechanism. This process allows hormones to regulate menstrual cycles and manage related conditions 1.
- Key mechanisms include:
- Binding to nuclear receptors
- Modulating gonadotropin secretion
- Negative feedback mechanism The exact effects of hormone therapy may vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
From the Research
Hormone therapy works by supplementing or balancing reproductive hormones that control the menstrual cycle, providing stable levels that prevent hormonal peaks and valleys responsible for symptoms like pain, heavy bleeding, and mood changes. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating menstrual cycles and managing related conditions. The most recent and highest quality study, 2, suggests that menopausal hormone therapy with estradiol and progesterone has a potentially better safety profile compared to other estrogens and progestins.
Key Points
- Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) containing estrogen and progestin can suppress ovulation and provide consistent hormone levels throughout the cycle.
- For conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), medications like metformin may be used alongside hormonal contraceptives to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce androgen levels.
- Progestin-only options like the Mirena IUD, Depo-Provera injections, or norethindrone may be prescribed for endometriosis or heavy bleeding, working by thinning the endometrial lining and reducing inflammation.
- A recent study, 3, found that cyclic progesterone therapy improved everyday experiences in women with PCOS, with decreased fluid retention, breast tenderness, and cervical mucus.
Treatment Options
- Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) containing estrogen and progestin, such as birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings.
- Progestin-only options like the Mirena IUD, Depo-Provera injections, or norethindrone.
- Metformin for improving insulin sensitivity and reducing androgen levels in PCOS patients.
Important Considerations
- Hormone therapy can have side effects, including breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness, nausea, and headaches, which typically improve after 2-3 months of treatment.
- The choice of hormone therapy should be individualized, taking into account the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and preferences.
- Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure the safe and effective use of hormone therapy.