Sex Hormones Overview

Sex Hormones

• Sex hormones are steroid hormones, primarily produced by the gonads (ovaries in females and testes in males).
• The two main types of sex hormones are androgens and estrogens.
• Females have higher circulating levels of estrogens, while males have higher circulating levels of androgens.

Estrogen

• Estrogen is found in blood and interstitial fluid.
• When estrogen binds to its receptor, the hormone-receptor complex moves to the cell nucleus.
• The complex binds to estrogen response elements (EREs) in the genome.
• This binding regulates gene transcription, affecting various cellular processes.

Testosterone

• Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and androgen.
• In males, testosterone plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues (testes and prostate).
• Testosterone also promotes secondary sexual characteristics, such as increased muscle and bone mass, and hair growth.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• PCOS is a hormonal problem occurring during reproductive years.
• Women with PCOS may have irregular or infrequent periods, or periods lasting many days.
• Women with PCOS may have elevated levels of androgens.

PCOS Causes

• The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but genetics and obesity are considered significant factors.
• High levels of androgens (male hormones) prevent ovulation, disrupting menstrual cycles.

PCOS Symptoms

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
• Excess facial and body hair.
• Fertility issues.
• Fatigue.
• Darkened patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans).
• Difficulty losing weight.

Drugs for PCOS

• Hormonal contraceptives (e.g., combined oral contraceptives, progesterone-only pills).
• Insulin-sensitizing agents to manage insulin resistance often associated with PCOS.
• Anti-androgens to reduce androgen levels.
• Ovulation-inducing drugs to help regulate ovulation.
• Weight management medications to address obesity, a contributing factor.

Hormonal Contraceptives

• Contain estrogen and/or progesterone.
• Prevent pregnancy by blocking egg release, thinning the uterine lining, or thickening cervical mucus.

Hormonal Contraceptives (Combined) - Mechanism of action

• Contain estrogen and progestin.
• Primarily used for contraception and hormonal regulation.
• Scientific name often includes Ethinyl Estradiol and Levonorgestrel.
• Other progestins might include norethindrone or spironolactone.

Mechanism of Action of Hormonal Contraceptives

• Inhibit ovulation by suppressing the release of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
• Thicken cervical mucus to make it less hospitable for sperm.
• Alter the uterine lining to make it less receptive to implantation.

Advantages and Usage

• Regulate menstrual cycles.
• Reduce menstrual cramps and bleeding.
• Protect against ovarian and endometrial cancer.
• Reduce androgens, which can cause excessive oil production.
• Daily regimen typically involves one pill taken at the same time daily.
• Cycles are typically 21 active pills, followed by 7 placebo pills (or variations).

Common Side Effects

• Nausea.
• Breast tenderness.
• Headaches (e.g., migraines).
• Mood changes.
• Weight gain.
• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding.

Contraindications

• History of stroke or heart attack.
• Severe hypertension.
• Active liver disease.
• Individuals above a specific age (e.g., 35) and/or obese individuals.

Common Brand Example

• Microgynon (Ethinyl Estradiol 30 mcg + Levonorgestrel 150 mcg).
• Other brands include Yasmin, Seasonique, and Ortho Tri-Cyclen.

MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions)

• Estrogen binds to estrogen response elements (EREs) in the genome to regulate gene transcription.
• Hormonal contraceptives suppress the release of FSH and LH, preventing ovulation.
• A significant contributor to PCOS development is a genetic predisposition and elevated androgen levels.

Explore the essential functions and effects of sex hormones, focusing on estrogen and testosterone. This quiz also covers the implications of hormonal imbalances, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Test your knowledge and deepen your understanding of these vital hormones.