Are you suffering from estrogen (E2) dominance or progesterone (Pg) deficiency?

Do you know your ratio of E2/Pg?  

I have always said that progesterone is a woman’s best friend.

So first let’s discuss the function of progesterone and why women present with many symptoms in the absence of progesterone.
First, it is important to note that the majority of combination hormone prescriptions contain synthetic progestins. Progestins are NOT progesterone. Progestins have a very long list of side effects. Progesterone has one side effect… Drowsiness! But not properly balanced with estrogen may cause other symptoms. 
Progesterone is made in large amounts by the ovaries after ovulation. This is called Luteal Phase and is where most women get many of their symptoms. Women who do not ovulate do not make enough progesterone to maintain a rhythm in their menstrual cycle. Some progesterone is made in the adrenal glands, a very small amount.

Progesterone deficiency is a factor in virtually every woman’s health problems.

Progesterone deficiency leads to what we call estrogen dominance. The symptoms of progesterone deficiency can be:
  • Cystic Ovaries
  • Fibrocystic Breasts
  • Breast Tenderness
  • Water Retention
  • Mood Swings
  • Irritability
  • Bleeding Changes
  • and more.

Some of these symptoms are consistent with premenstrual syndrome or PMS.

  • Progesterone has diuretic properties. Thus, water retention when there is a deficiency.
  • Progesterone promotes normal sleep patterns. Sleep is better achieved with oral supplementation.
  • Progesterone is involved in normal bone density.
  • Progesterone promotes glucose utilization and improves insulin resistance.
  • More importantly, progesterone has antiestrogenic properties. This is why it is extremely important to look at progesterone levels in women that present with symptoms of PMS, bleeding irregularities, and irregular cycles. This includes teenage women.
When estrogen is supplemented, it is very important to maintain an estrogen to progesterone ratio. Mainstream medicine believes that progesterone is only important to protect the uterus. I have shown several reasons that this is just not true.

NOTE: Progesterone creams are available over-the-counter. There can be an overabundance of progesterone causing… nausea, dizziness, worsening depressive symptoms, increase in vasomotor symptoms and headaches.
 
The lab that I have been using for almost 20 years gives the Pg/E2 ratio. This makes it much easier to make dosing adjustments with the patients.

Therefore, the Pg/E2 ratio can help to get to the root cause of hormone imbalance issues, especially when looked at in concert with symptomology; the effects of hormone supplementation on Pg and E2 levels should be taken into account when interpreting the ratio for women using hormone therapy.

Having almost 20 years of experience I have come to learn that there are many factors that affect the hormone balance. Knowing the ratio of Pg/E2 can be a simple way to improve quality of life. I have also learned that there are several herbs and protocols that can be very effective in balancing the Pg/E2 ratio.

If you, a family member or friend just do not feel right or you are having symptoms that you and your practitioner cannot resolve, call me to schedule an appointment.

Call Integrative Hormone Consulting at 614.888.8923 and select option 1.