By: Elena Mart
Dr. Vitaly Osminkin, a renowned bio-hacking endocrinologist and anti-aging medicine specialist, shares his expertise on how hormones significantly impact the emotional state. Understanding the intricate role of the endocrine system can help individuals navigate through various stages of life, particularly during transitional periods like menopause.
Pre and Post Menopause
The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating human emotions and mood. Hormones, secreted by endocrine glands, significantly impact mental state, mood, and behavior. Explore how some key hormones affect emotional well-being:
Cortisol
Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. High cortisol levels can lead to anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. Chronic stress, and consequently persistent high cortisol levels, can cause long-term changes in emotional state.
Dr. Vitaly Osminkin emphasizes, “Prolonged elevated cortisol levels not only affect mental health but also can lead to physical health issues like hypertension and metabolic disorders.”
Serotonin
Often referred to as the happiness hormone, serotonin regulates mood, well-being, and happiness. Low serotonin levels are associated with depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Produced in the brain and gastrointestinal tract, serotonin levels can be boosted through physical activity and certain foods like chocolate and bananas.
Dopamine
Dopamine is responsible for feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. A deficiency in dopamine can result in decreased motivation and worsened mood, commonly seen in depressive states. It also plays a critical role in movement, emotions, and the reward system.
Estrogens and Progesterone
These female sex hormones influence mood and emotional state. Fluctuations in their levels can cause mood swings, irritability, and even depression, particularly during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause.
Testosterone
The male sex hormone testosterone also affects mood. Low testosterone levels can cause depression, fatigue, and reduced libido. Conversely, high testosterone levels can enhance confidence and aggression.
Oxytocin
Known as the bonding hormone, oxytocin promotes feelings of trust, closeness, and love. Its levels increase during social interactions and physical contact, such as hugging, improving mood and reducing stress.
Thyroxine
Thyroid hormones like thyroxine regulate metabolism and energy levels. A deficiency in thyroxine can lead to fatigue and depression, while an excess can cause anxiety and nervousness.
Insulin
Insulin regulates blood glucose levels. An imbalance in insulin, as seen in diabetes, can lead to mood changes like irritability or fatigue due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Dr. Osminkin notes, “Maintaining hormonal balance is crucial for both mental and physical health. Disruptions in the endocrine system can lead to significant mood and behavioral changes.”
Pre-Menopause: The Perimenopausal Period
During the perimenopausal period, the female body undergoes significant changes due to hormonal fluctuations and the gradual decline of hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. Here are the primary changes occurring in this period:
Hormonal Changes
– Irregular menstrual cycles: Periods become irregular, may be skipped, or become heavier or lighter.
– Decreased estrogen levels: Estrogen regulates many processes in the body, and its decline affects various organ systems.
Physical Changes
– Hot flashes and night sweats: Sudden warmth often accompanied by heavy sweating.
– Skin and hair changes: Skin can become drier, and hair may become thin and brittle.
– Weight gain: Metabolism slows down, potentially leading to weight gain, especially in the abdominal area.
Psychological Changes
– Mood swings: Increased irritability, anxiety, and depression.
– Concentration and memory issues: Difficulty concentrating and remembering.
Reproductive System Changes
– Vaginal dryness: Can cause discomfort and pain during intercourse.
Changes in Bone and Cardiovascular Systems
– Decreased bone density: Lower estrogen levels can lead to osteoporosis.
– Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases: Estrogen helps protect the cardiovascular system, and its reduction can increase the risk of heart diseases.
These changes can vary greatly among women in terms of their presence and severity.
Modern Medical Practices: Bioidentical Hormone Pellets
Bioidentical hormone pellets are a form of hormone therapy chemically identical to those produced by the human body. These pellets are used to correct hormonal imbalances during menopause or other hormonal disorders. They contain bioidentical hormones such as estradiol and testosterone, oxytocin, melatonin, hydrocortisone, among others, and are slowly released into the body, providing long-lasting and stable effects.
What are Bioidentical Pellets?
These hormones are synthesized to be identical to natural hormones. Pellets are small implants inserted under the skin, usually in the thigh or buttocks area, gradually releasing hormones over several months.
Benefits of Bioidentical Pellets
- Long-lasting effects: Pellets provide continuous hormone release, avoiding sharp fluctuations in hormone levels.
- Convenience: Pellets need to be implanted at intervals of 4-6 months, reducing the need for frequent medication.
- Individualized dosage: Pellets can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual.
Applications and Effects
– Hormonal balance correction: Used to treat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and reduced libido.
– Bone mass support: Pellets can help prevent osteoporosis by maintaining estrogen levels.
– Improved overall well-being: Patients often report better mood, energy levels, and sexual function.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- Menstrual irregularities: A delay in menstruation for 1 to 2.5 months is common and considered normal for women who are not in menopause.
- Swelling and redness: Swelling and redness at the insertion site, which typically resolves within 2 to 6 weeks.
- Localized sensitivity: Hardening and tenderness at the insertion site, which may take up to 2 months to subside.
Pellet Implantation Process
- Consultation with a doctor: Discuss symptoms and conduct a hormone profile analysis.
- Dosage selection: Determine the necessary amount of hormones for implantation.
- Implantation procedure: Pellets are inserted under the skin through a small incision under local anesthesia.
Dr. Osminkin concludes, “Bioidentical hormone therapy, particularly through pellets, offers a promising solution for managing hormonal imbalances effectively, ensuring better quality of life during and after menopause.”
By understanding and managing these hormonal changes, one can enhance emotional and physical health, particularly during transitional periods such as menopause.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The contents of this article should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
