Women's Health Revision PDF

Hormonal Imbalances Key Hormones: Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, pregnenolone, and their interactions within the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian (HPO) axis. Pathophysiology: Hormonal balance is maintained by the HPO axis, with conditions like estrogen dominance, lo...

Hormonal Imbalances Key Hormones: Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, pregnenolone, and their interactions within the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian (HPO) axis. Pathophysiology: Hormonal balance is maintained by the HPO axis, with conditions like estrogen dominance, low progesterone, or androgen excess (as in PCOS) resulting from disruptions. Supportive Nutrients: B vitamins (support hormonal metabolism), omega-3s (anti- inflammatory), magnesium (supports hormone regulation), and Vitex Agnus castus (balances progesterone). 2. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Conditions: Characterized by symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and physical discomfort in the luteal phase. Pathophysiology: Imbalances between estrogen and progesterone, serotonin dysregulation, and neurotransmitter fluctuations contribute to symptoms. Nutrient Support: Magnesium (300-400 mg daily), vitamin B6 (50-100 mg), calcium (1000 mg daily), and omega-3s (1000-3000 mg) can alleviate symptoms. Herbs like Vitex Agnus castus may also help balance hormone levels. 3. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Condition: Affects 5-20% of reproductive-aged women, characterized by ovarian dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. Pathophysiology: Involves insulin resistance, which leads to increased androgen production and reduced follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) activity. The condition is exacerbated by obesity, chronic inflammation, and gut dysbiosis. Supportive Nutrients: Inositol (2000-4000 mg daily for insulin sensitivity), chromium (200 mcg for glucose regulation), omega-3s (1000-3000 mg for inflammation), and magnesium (200-500 mg). 4. Endometriosis Condition: Endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, leading to pain and inflammation. Pathophysiology: Estrogen dominance and immune dysfunction contribute to the growth and inflammation associated with the condition. High levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators like cytokines are common. Nutrient Support: Omega-3 fatty acids (1000-3000 mg), curcumin (500-1000 mg), NAC (600-1200 mg for liver support), and antioxidants like vitamin C and E. Anti- inflammatory herbs like turmeric and ginger may also help. 5. Fibrocystic Breasts Condition: A benign breast condition causing swelling, tenderness, and lumpiness, often cyclically related to the menstrual cycle.  Pathophysiology: Linked to estrogen dominance, stress, and methylxanthines (e.g., caffeine). Nutrient Support: Vitamin E (400-800 IU), evening primrose oil (GLA, 1000 mg three times daily), and omega-3s. Reducing caffeine intake is also beneficial. 6. Uterine Fibroids Condition: Benign tumors in the uterus that are estrogen-dependent and can cause heavy bleeding. Pathophysiology: Driven by excess estrogen, insulin resistance, and inflammatory cytokines. Nutrient Support: Green tea extract (500-1000 mg), cruciferous vegetables (I3C for estrogen detoxification), vitamin D (2000-4000 IU), and fiber to support estrogen clearance. 7. Menopause Condition: The cessation of menstruation, marked by a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. Pathophysiology: Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and low estrogen in postmenopause can lead to hot flashes, mood changes, and genitourinary symptoms. Nutrient Support: Phytoestrogens (soy, flaxseed), black cohosh (40-80 mg twice daily for hot flashes), omega-3s (for mood), calcium (1200 mg for bone health), and vitamin D (2000-4000 IU). 8. Hormone Balancing and Detoxification Key Factors: The CNM Naturopathic approach emphasizes diet, reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors, liver support, and managing inflammation. Supportive Nutrients: Cruciferous vegetables (for estrogen detoxification), magnesium (300-400 mg), B vitamins (for methylation), and herbal adaptogens (e.g., ashwagandha for stress). 9. Gut Health and Microbiome Role in Hormone Balance: The gut microbiome impacts estrogen metabolism and elimination through the 'oestrobolome,' which can affect conditions like estrogen dominance. Supportive Nutrients: Probiotics (1-10 billion CFUs), prebiotics, and dietary fiber (25-35 grams daily). The naturopathic approach integrates dietary and lifestyle changes with targeted supplementation to address underlying imbalances and support the body’s natural hormone regulation mechanisms. Flashcard 1 Q: What is the Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis? A: The HPO axis maintains hormonal balance within the female reproductive system by regulating the release of sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Supplement/Dosage: No specific dosage is needed; support with a balanced diet rich in B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Flashcard 2 Q: What are the symptoms of low pregnenolone? A: Symptoms include poor memory, fatigue, dry skin, joint and muscle pain, and decreased libido. Supplement/Dosage: Pregnenolone supplements can be taken in doses of 10-50 mg per day under medical supervision. Flashcard 3 Q: What causes progesterone imbalances? A: Causes include perimenopause, PCOS, and infertility. A lack of ovulation can lead to low progesterone levels. Supplement/Dosage: Vitex Agnus castus (400-1000 mg daily) can help balance progesterone. Flashcard 4 Q: What is oestrogen dominance? A: A state of excess estrogen activity relative to progesterone, associated with conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, PMS, and certain cancers. Supplement/Dosage: DIM (Diindolylmethane) 100-200 mg daily supports estrogen metabolism. Flashcard 5 Q: How does the liver contribute to estrogen metabolism? A: The liver processes estrogen through phase I and II metabolism, converting it to metabolites that can be safely excreted. Supplement/Dosage: N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) 600-1200 mg daily supports liver detoxification. Flashcard 6 Q: Name a nutrient that supports phase II estrogen metabolism. A: Magnesium helps support conjugation pathways for estrogen elimination. Supplement/Dosage: Magnesium citrate 200-400 mg daily. Flashcard 7 Q: What is the role of beta-glucuronidase in estrogen metabolism? A: It deconjugates estrogens in the gut, allowing them to be reabsorbed and increasing estrogen load. Supplement/Dosage: Calcium D-glucarate 500-1000 mg daily inhibits beta-glucuronidase. Flashcard 8 Q: What condition is associated with high androgen levels and insulin resistance in women? A: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Supplement/Dosage: Inositol (myo-inositol 2000 mg with D-chiro inositol 50 mg, twice daily) improves insulin sensitivity. Flashcard 9 Q: Name a supplement that can improve insulin sensitivity in PCOS. A: Myo-inositol. Supplement/Dosage: 2000 mg twice daily, often combined with D-chiro inositol. Flashcard 10 Q: What is endometriosis? A: A condition where endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain and infertility. Supplement/Dosage: Omega-3 fatty acids (1000-3000 mg daily) can help reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis. Flashcard 11 Q: What hormonal imbalance is linked to endometriosis? A: Elevated estrogen-to-progesterone ratio. Supplement/Dosage: DIM (100-200 mg daily) supports estrogen metabolism. Flashcard 12 Q: What lifestyle factor can exacerbate fibrocystic breast symptoms? A: High intake of caffeine and methylxanthines. Supplement/Dosage: Reduce caffeine and supplement with Vitamin E (400-800 IU daily). Flashcard 13 Q: What nutrient can help alleviate breast pain in fibrocystic breasts? A: Evening primrose oil (GLA). Supplement/Dosage: 1000 mg, three times daily. Flashcard 14 Q: What dietary approach is recommended for hormone balancing? A: The CNM Naturopathic Diet, which focuses on whole, unprocessed foods. Supplement/Dosage: A multivitamin containing B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids is recommended. Flashcard 15 Q: What hormonal changes occur during perimenopause? A: Ovarian follicular activity declines, leading to fluctuating hormone levels and symptoms like hot flashes. Supplement/Dosage: Black cohosh (40-80 mg twice daily) can help alleviate hot flashes. Flashcard 16 Q: What natural remedy can help reduce vasomotor symptoms in menopause? A: Sage, often consumed as a tea or supplement. Supplement/Dosage: Sage extract 300-400 mg daily or 2-3 cups of sage tea. Flashcard 17 Q: What are uterine fibroids? A: Benign tumors of the uterus that are estrogen-dependent and can cause heavy bleeding. Supplement/Dosage: Green tea extract (500 mg daily) can inhibit fibroid growth. Flashcard 18 Q: Name a natural supplement that can help reduce fibroid growth. A: Green tea extract (epicatechins). Supplement/Dosage: 500-1000 mg daily. Flashcard 19 Q: What is the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and sex hormones? A: Thyroid imbalances can affect the metabolism of sex hormones, impacting conditions like PCOS and PMS. Supplement/Dosage: Selenium (200 mcg daily) supports thyroid function. Flashcard 20 Q: What role does magnesium play in hormone health? A: It supports estrogen metabolism, reduces inflammation, and helps with stress management. Supplement/Dosage: 300-400 mg of magnesium glycinate daily. Flashcard 21 Q: How can fiber intake affect hormone balance? A: High fiber helps eliminate excess estrogen through the digestive tract. Supplement/Dosage: Aim for 25-35 grams of fiber daily from food sources. Flashcard 22 Q: What condition involves painful menstrual cramps and is linked to inflammation? A: Dysmenorrhea. Supplement/Dosage: Omega-3 fatty acids (1000-3000 mg daily) can reduce inflammation and pain. Flashcard 23 Q: Name a herb that supports progesterone levels and can alleviate PMS symptoms. A: Vitex Agnus castus (chaste tree). Supplement/Dosage: 400-1000 mg daily. Flashcard 24 Q: How can chronic stress impact hormone levels? A: It can downregulate ovulation by affecting the HPA axis and increasing cortisol production. Supplement/Dosage: Ashwagandha (300-500 mg twice daily) supports stress management. Flashcard 25 Q: What lifestyle change can help improve symptoms of PCOS? A: Regular exercise, which enhances insulin sensitivity. Supplement/Dosage: Pair exercise with chromium supplementation (200 mcg daily) to support blood sugar regulation. Flashcard 26 Q: How does vitamin D deficiency relate to PCOS? A: It can worsen insulin resistance and exacerbate symptoms. Supplement/Dosage: Vitamin D3 (2000-4000 IU daily). Flashcard 27 Q: What is the therapeutic aim for managing endometriosis? A: Reducing inflammation, optimizing liver detoxification, and balancing hormones. Supplement/Dosage: Curcumin (500-1000 mg daily) reduces inflammation. Flashcard 28 Q: How does the gut microbiome influence estrogen metabolism? A: A healthy microbiome supports proper estrogen elimination, while dysbiosis can increase estrogen reabsorption. Supplement/Dosage: Probiotics (1-10 billion CFUs daily) support gut health. Flashcard 29 Q: What is the primary focus of the naturopathic approach to hormone balance? A: Supporting detoxification, reducing toxic load, and optimizing nutrient status. Supplement/Dosage: Use a liver support supplement containing milk thistle (150 mg daily). Flashcard 30 Q: What condition is associated with low serotonin during the menstrual cycle? A: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Supplement/Dosage: 5-HTP (50-100 mg before bed) can help boost serotonin levels.