How stress effects women’s hormones
Stress can have a huge impact on a woman’s health.
It can effect various systems within the body and contribute to a range of issues. Prolonged stress and the release of the stress hormone, Cortisol, can in particular disrupt the delicate balance of our sex hormones. So let’s explore how stress affects women’s hormonal balance.
Cortisol
The adrenal glands produce cortisol in response to stress, and it is essential for managing the body’s “fight or flight” response, for when we need increased energy and a boost in alertness, or to run away from the proverbial tiger. Cortisol is also what helps us to get out of bed in the morning. The issue with Cortisol comes when stress becomes chronic and cortisol levels remain elevated and prolonged, instead of small increased hits. This is when a wide variety of health problems can begin to be felt and seen.
Effects of chronic Cortisol elevation
Weight gain: One of the most common consequences of long-term high cortisol levels is weight gain, especially around the abdominal area. Cortisol can increase appetite, particularly for high-fat and sugary foods, and it also promotes fat storage. This is particularly problematic for women, as abdominal fat has been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and other metabolic issues.
Immune system suppression: While cortisol is beneficial in the short term for regulating inflammation and immune function, chronic stress and high cortisol levels suppress the immune system over time, making the body more vulnerable to infections, illnesses, and chronic diseases.
Sleep disruption: Elevated cortisol levels interfere with sleep quality. Since cortisol follows a natural rhythm, which is to be high in the morning and low at night, an imbalance caused by chronic stress can result in insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or waking up in the middle of the night. Poor sleep can worsen the stress cycle, affecting mood and cognitive function.
Mental health issues: Prolonged high cortisol levels are associated with increased anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Hormonal imbalance due to stress
Stress can influence the production and regulation of several other hormones in the body, leading to a range of issues that are especially noticeable in women due to the complex nature of the female hormonal system.
Oestrogen and progesterone imbalance
Disrupted menstrual cycle: Chronic stress can cause imbalances in oestrogen and progesterone, the two main female reproductive hormones. When cortisol levels rise in response to stress, the body prioritises cortisol production over other hormones because the brain perceives danger and is getting ready for it. This can disrupt the menstrual cycle and potentially can lead to irregular periods, missed periods, or heavier menstrual bleeding.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Stress exacerbates PMS symptoms, as there is an imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone; symptoms can include mood swings, irritability, bloating, and fatigue.
Infertility: Stress-induced hormonal imbalances can interfere with ovulation, making it more difficult for women to conceive. The suppression of oestrogen and progesterone can impact the release of eggs from the ovaries and disrupt the timing of ovulation, which may affect fertility.
Thyroid Hormones
Hypothyroidism and stress: Stress can have a direct impact on thyroid function. The thyroid, which regulates metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), is sensitive to cortisol. Chronic stress can lead to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), which can cause fatigue, weight gain, depression, and other symptoms. Low thyroid function can further exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of stress.
Hyperthyroidism and stress: Stress may also contribute to an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Hyperthyroidism can lead to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, anxiety, weight loss, and sleep disturbances, which can worsen the overall stress response.
Insulin and blood sugar regulation
Insulin Resistance: Chronic stress and high cortisol levels can lead to insulin resistance, which occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. This results in higher levels of circulating glucose, which can contribute to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. Over time, insulin resistance increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Blood sugar spikes: Stress can also cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to spikes in glucose followed by crashes. These fluctuations can cause mood swings, irritability, and energy crashes, further increasing the toll of stress on us.
Adrenal fatigue
Excessive demand on the Adrenal Glands: The adrenal glands produce cortisol, adrenaline, and other hormones that help the body respond to stress. Chronic stress can overwhelm the adrenal glands, leading to what is commonly referred to as "adrenal fatigue." This condition occurs when the adrenal glands become depleted and unable to produce adequate levels of cortisol. Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include fatigue, difficulty handling stress, low energy, and a weakened immune system.
Cortisol regulation is especially important during Perimenopause as there is something known as the "pregnenolone steal," which is when the body is under chronic stress, the hormone pregnenolone, which is used by the body to make cortisol and sex hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, makes cortisol production a priority. This can further deplete levels of oestrogen and progesterone, exacerbating the symptoms of Perimenopause, such as hot flushes and mood swings. Essentially, the body prioritises producing cortisol at the expense of other vital hormones, which may contribute to hormonal imbalances experienced during Perimenopause and the sense of fatigue associated with adrenal dysfunction.
The relationship between stress and hormonal health highlights the importance of stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, exercise and good nutrition, to help women maintain their physical and mental wellbeing. Recognising and addressing stress is crucial for promoting long-term health and preventing the negative effects of hormonal imbalances.
Katie xx
DISCLAIMER: This journal is for information only and does not constitute or include any advice of any nature whatsoever. No reliance should be placed on the information or opinions in this journal. The reader should carry out their own research and consult with a suitably qualified medical practitioner.