Hormonal Feedback: Understanding the Delicate Dance Within | with Angela Hywood
Hormones and their feedback mechanisms form an incredibly complex ecosystem in our body. Endocrinologists have been studying hormones for decades, yet there is still so much more to uncover.
However, one thing is clear: hormones are highly sensitive messengers. They are influenced not only by internal factors like nutrition and biochemical shifts but also by the external world we live in, including our stress levels and environment. Think of hormones as messengers carrying instructions that guide the functioning of every organ, tissue, and system in our body.
The master conductor of this hormonal symphony is the hypothalamus, an incredible gland nestled deep within our brain. Like the conductor of an orchestra, the hypothalamus listens intently for feedback from our organs, glands, and tissues. It then directs the pituitary gland to send out instructions to our other glands, creating a beautiful balance—or harmony—within our body. This feedback loop operates 24/7, helping to regulate stress, digestion, sleep-wake cycles, and even fertility.
The Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis: A Balancing Act for Menstrual Health
A healthy menstrual cycle is orchestrated by a well-functioning hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. The cycle begins with the hypothalamus, which gauges signals from both the ovaries and adrenal glands. It senses how much oestrogen and progesterone are present, triggering the pituitary gland to release key hormones. At the start of each cycle, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) primes the ovaries to mature follicles—each containing a potential egg. As FSH levels rise, the eggs mature until, just before ovulation, the hypothalamus instructs the pituitary to release luteinising hormone (LH). This surge in LH causes ovulation, releasing the healthiest egg.
Meanwhile, oestrogen is produced by the growing ovarian follicles. If oestrogen levels drop, the pituitary works harder, pumping out more FSH to stimulate the ovaries. After ovulation, the follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, a temporary gland that produces progesterone. Progesterone then thickens the uterine lining, readying it for a potential pregnancy. If fertilisation doesn’t occur, progesterone levels drop, and the uterine lining sheds—your menstrual period.
Hormonal Imbalances and the Role of Stress
Our hormones are delicate, and even small shifts can have a ripple effect. Hormones like prolactin and cortisol can disrupt the balance of oestrogen and progesterone, leading to PMS, delayed ovulation, heavy bleeding, and period pain. Prolactin, produced by the pituitary gland, should remain low throughout the menstrual cycle. But when we experience stress, cortisol—our primary stress hormone—causes prolactin levels to rise. Elevated prolactin has been linked to issues like PMS, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), delayed ovulation, heavy periods, and infertility.
It’s no surprise that stress is often the silent saboteur. Emotional, physical, and even environmental stressors cause cortisol levels to spike and DHEA, our protective and anti-ageing hormone, to drop. High cortisol is not only associated with hormonal imbalances but also immune suppression, osteoporosis, hypertension, anxiety, and insomnia.
The Connection Between Emotions and Hormones
Hormones act as the bridge between our external and internal worlds. Mental and emotional fluctuations can influence hormones just as significantly as any biochemical change. Hormones have even been called “the molecules of emotion,” highlighting how deeply they connect with our feelings. This is why a woman cannot truly have a balanced menstrual cycle if she feels emotionally off-kilter. For centuries, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda have recognised this deep mind-body connection.
Managing Stress for Hormonal Harmony
Understanding that stress management is crucial for a balanced menstrual cycle is a game-changer. Your emotional well-being matters, and even small steps to manage stress can have a profound impact on your hormones. Mindful practices, nourishing your body with whole foods, and embracing gentle movement can support this intricate balance.
Remember: your hormones are always listening, so take care of them—and yourself.
To book an appointment for your personalised treatment plan book a consult with Angela here.
Naturopath and Founder of Floralia Wellness & Apothecary, Angela Hywood, has been specialising in women’s health, hormones and fertility for over 25 years.
