If you are expecting to expect, you ought to know the importance of estrogen in the whole process. However, what is the real importance of estrogen for fertility and how can it influence your chances of getting pregnant? Let us take a deeper look at that.
Estrogen and progesterone are the two main female sex hormones. Both play a significant role in the proper development of female reproductive system. Estrogen is produced by the developing follicles in a woman’s ovaries as well as the corpus luteum (the follicle that release the egg) and the placenta.
Estrogen is present in both men and women, but a higher amount of estrogen can be found in women of reproductive age. Estrogen plays a vital role in regulating the start of puberty in females. In women, it is the estrogen level that determines the menstrual cycles, bone health and the overall mood of the person.
If the estrogen levels in the body are too high or too low, it changes the fertility levels of the women. This is why women who intend to be pregnant are given estrogen in the form of estradiol in case of estrogen deficiency. Estrogen holds utmost importance because it is necessary for the functioning of the uterus, both in the growth and maintenance of the uterine lining (endometrium) so that the fertilized egg can implant in the uterus with ease which will in turn result in sustaining pregnancy. Estrogen also helps the placenta to function and boosts blood flow to the uterus. Estrogen plays an important role post delivery also, especially in preparing the body to breastfeed after birth.
If you ask if pregnancy is not possible with low estrogen level. The answer is you may always be able to, but the chances of sustaining a pregnancy are optimum only if the levels of estrogen are just right. Inadequate levels of estrogen can be detrimental to you and your unborn baby.
If you think estrogen is associated with only female pregnancy, you are wrong. It can affect male fertility as well. The testes of the male produce a small quantity of estrogen regularly and it affects the emotional quotient of men too. In men, the primary function of estrogen is to help regulate the maturation of healthy sperm. So ideal estrogen level in men has also been found to be of paramount importance when it comes to fertility.
When it comes to females low estrogen count can lead to infertility on multiple grounds. Reduced estrogen level may be because of pituitary gland issues, such as in the case of excessive exercise, being underweight or having an eating disorder, leading to not releasing enough eggs during ovulation. As you know, without ovulation there is no chance of that person will ever be pregnant. Hormones including estrogen can play a role in weight management and how much fat the body stores. Low estrogen levels may contribute to weight gain.
Levels of estrogen vary for many reasons. Any condition that affects or damages the ovaries can cause a decrease in estrogen levels in the body. Having a family history of hormonal problems can also increase a woman’s risk of developing low estrogen.
Apart from infertility, inadequate amount of insulin in the body can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, weak bones, painful intercourse, vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, depression etc. Estrogen levels can be increased through medical techniques, but make sure you always consult a doctor before embarking on any estrogen-increasing regime.
Wondering how to raise estrogen level to get pregnant? There are many ways, but do understand that there is no single method as to how to increase estrogen level to boost pregnancy. In order to beef up the production of estrogen, the levels of luteinizing hormone need to be boosted as it regulates the manufacture of estrogen in females. Besides, the deficiency can also be because of improper functioning of pituitary gland on account of too much of workouts and dietary indiscretion. The most important thing to do is to stick to a healthy diet and maintain proper weight. Medications and the use of herbs and supplements after consulting a doctor can improve the estrogen level. Moreover, you can discuss with your doctor the prospects of estrogen pill for fertility.
