From the Research
If pregnancy levels of estriol and progesterone were to persist for 2 decades, a woman would likely experience severe health consequences, including a significantly increased risk of hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast and endometrial cancer, due to the continuous stimulation of cell growth in these tissues, as supported by recent studies 1. The potential effects on a woman's body would be multifaceted, impacting various systems and increasing the risk of several conditions.
- Hormone-dependent cancers: The continuous exposure to high levels of estriol and progesterone would increase the risk of breast and endometrial cancer, as these hormones stimulate cell growth in these tissues, which is supported by a study published in 2022 1.
- Cardiovascular complications: The increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and hypertension would be a concern, as pregnancy hormones naturally increase blood clotting factors and fluid retention.
- Metabolic effects: Insulin resistance, potential development of diabetes, and substantial weight gain would be likely, as the body's metabolic balance would be disrupted by the prolonged exposure to these hormones.
- Bone health: Accelerated bone mineral density loss would increase the risk of fractures, as the body's regulatory systems would be overwhelmed by the continuous stimulation of bone turnover.
- Ongoing pregnancy-like symptoms: Nausea, breast tenderness, mood changes, and fluid retention would persist, affecting the woman's quality of life. It is essential to note that this scenario does not occur naturally, as hormone levels typically return to normal within weeks after childbirth, and the body's regulatory systems are not designed to maintain pregnancy hormone levels long-term, which could lead to permanent disruption of the endocrine system, as discussed in a study published in 2023 2.