Whether can from hormonal tablets. How do hormonal drugs affect the body? Side effects

The word "hormones" causes fear in 60% of modern women. This fact is not surprising: hormone therapy is indeed quite a serious and often not harmless therapeutic measure. The dangers of hormonal drugs are often and much spoken about, while their benefits are rarely remembered. But few people think that hormonal therapy can significantly improve a person's quality of life, and sometimes even support this very life (with diabetes, thyroid diseases, bronchial asthma, etc.).

Are hormone pills harmful?

As a hormone hormone discord, and hormonal agents differ in the degree of positive and negative effects on the body. The ratio of harm and benefit of hormonal drugs is determined by the type of hormone, its concentration, frequency, duration and method of application.

Yes, of course, hormonal drugs do some harm to the body. But, as a rule, they do not cause more damage to health than the disease for which this drug is used. Today, there are diseases that cannot be treated without hormones.

Why are hormonal drugs harmful?

It must be clearly understood that the hormonal drugs of the 21st century cannot be compared with the hormonal drugs of the 20th century. If our mothers associated the phrase “hormonal treatment” with excess weight, edema, unnatural hair growth, then in our time such side effects are minimized. But it is important to understand that the harm from the use of a hormonal drug will be minimal only if it is properly selected.

So, why are hormonal drugs harmful? To answer this question, you just need to read the instructions for use for a particular tool. In the "Side effect" section, as a rule, the whole range of possible (but not mandatory) side effects is indicated, among them are the classic ones: metabolic disorders, weight gain, excessive hair growth, skin rashes, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract, and more.

The harm and benefits of hormonal contraceptives

Hormone therapy in women most often involves treatment with oral contraceptives (OCs), the main purpose of which is contraception, and the therapeutic effect is achieved as a positive side effect. Discussions about the benefits and harms of hormonal contraceptives have been going on for many years.

Some theorists and practitioners of medicine, including alternative medicine, are categorically against the use of hormonal contraceptives in medical practice, since they cause irreparable harm to the female body in the form of: suppression of ovarian function, changes in the natural background of a woman, dangerous side effects.

Another part of the experts claims, and numerous scientific studies confirm that everything written above has nothing to do with modern OK. Huge doses of hormones, which were contained in the hormonal preparations of the first generations, caused serious harm to the female body. Improved OK of the new generation are characterized by a mild effect on due to the maximum cleansing and the minimum quantitative content of the hormone. Against the background of OK reception:

The benefit-to-risk ratio for hormonal contraceptive pills is unambiguously positive.

And to the frequent question of women: “How harmful are hormonal pills?” the following answer can be given: in the absence of contraindications, subject to the correct diagnosis and the correct selection of the drug - practically nothing. The first three months of admission (the period of adaptation to the drug) side effects are possible: nausea, headaches and dizziness, breast engorgement, mood swings, decreased sexual desire.

For some women's diseases, hormone therapy becomes the most effective treatment. In the patients themselves, such drugs often cause concern: it is difficult to prevent possible negative consequences. Side effects of hormonal drugs are quite dangerous.

Properties of drugs

The composition of hormonal preparations includes substances whose properties are as close as possible to natural human hormones. In a natural form, in healthy people, hormones are produced by certain glands:

• adrenal glands;
• endocrine gland;

• the pituitary gland;
• pancreas.

Some diseases cause a malfunction that blocks the proper functioning of the systems responsible for the production of hormones.

Hormone-based drugs include several categories of drugs:

• supporting (for diabetics);
• contraceptives;
• regulating;
• medical.

Means can be of both vegetable and synthetic origin.

Purpose of using hormonal drugs

Hormone therapy agents for the treatment of diabetes are short-acting, intermediate-acting or long-acting insulin.

Beta cells in the pancreas are responsible for the natural production of this substance. Its main task is to maintain normal glucose levels.

Therapeutic hormones are prescribed for therapy with the following disorders:

• inflammation;
• allergic diseases;
• tumors;
• anemia;
• gynecological pathologies;
• ectopic pregnancy;
• abortion.

The composition of contraceptives often includes a certain combination of sex hormones - estrogen and progestin. Long-term use of such drugs changes the functioning of the ovaries, as a result of which the process of ovulation is eliminated, fertilization in this case becomes impossible.

In some cases, oral contraceptives also perform regulatory functions: they can be prescribed to "correct" the hormonal background in women. Such failures negatively affect not only sexual functions, but also the general condition of the body. Prolonged violations lead to infertility and oncology.

The main hormonal failure in the female body occurs during menopause. Already after 35 years, the process of estrogen production slows down. Progesterone, which is needed to renew endometrial cells in the uterus, also decreases. At the last stage of menopause, estrogen production stops completely.

Menopause affects all body systems, from the thyroid gland to carbohydrate metabolism. This negatively affects the quality of life. It is especially difficult for the body to tolerate premature menopause, provoked by hormonal failure. With the help of hormonal drugs, the level of estrogen and progesterone is brought closer to the natural norm.

Common Side Effects

Prevention and ways to reduce side effects

With the right approach to treatment, the negative effect of hormonal drugs on the body can be minimized. The greatest danger is treatment without the supervision of a specialist. Self-administration of medication is very dangerous.

When using the drug, you must follow simple rules:

• purchase exactly the prescribed drug from a reliable manufacturer, without trying to find an analogue;
• carefully observe the dosage recommended by the doctor;
• take medications according to the prescribed schedule;
• do not skip a pill or injection;
• in case of skipping, do not increase the dose, trying to correct the hormonal background.

During treatment, the body needs maximum support for the immune system. To raise it in parallel with hormonal agents, it is recommended to take vitamin-mineral complexes. At the same time, it is worth considering that synthetic vitamins load the kidneys, they can be replaced with a balanced proper diet.

The course of treatment is determined individually, but it is desirable that hormones last no longer than nine months. After taking the drugs, the body needs a little respite. If necessary, treatment is resumed after 2-3 months.

In some pathological conditions, hormonal treatment is the patient's only chance for a full life. It is impossible to refuse to take drugs, despite the extensive list of contraindications and side effects.

Content

Contraception is a topical issue for many couples and women who have an active sex life. Hormonal oral contraceptives provide the highest degree of protection against unwanted pregnancy. The harm of birth control pills is still being studied by many laboratories, as well as the benefits of their use.

Pros and cons of hormonal contraceptives

Modern oral contraceptives contain a minimal dose of synthetic hormones similar to those produced by the female endocrine glands. They first appeared in the United States and over several decades have become one of the most popular and reliable ways to protect against unplanned pregnancy. They contain analogues of estrogen and progestogen.

It is difficult to assess the pros and cons of contraceptives in each individual case. But as a result of numerous studies conducted by dozens of independent laboratories, the most common consequences of their prolonged use have been identified.

Without a doubt, the main plus of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) is 98% reliability and effectiveness. The chance of getting pregnant is minimal. In addition, they are easy to use, just take a pill with water. Everything is painless, without hassle, and at first glance, does not harm health.

The disadvantages include a large list of contraindications, a sharp decrease in effectiveness in case of missing a dose of medication. About everything in more detail.

The benefits of birth control pills

The female body works under the control of the hormonal system. First of all, the reproductive and endocrine systems affect the well-being, appearance and ability to give birth to a child. Any failure in their work leads to a disorder of the reproductive function, an unstable emotional background, and the development of pathologies. The latter include cysts, fibroids, tumors.

If the balance of hormones in the body is disturbed, oral contraceptives will not do harm, but only benefit. They are able to correct the balance of hormones and thereby prevent the appearance of cysts on the ovaries and in the mammary glands. In addition, according to some studies by American scientists, the benefits of tablets are in the prevention of benign formations in the uterine cavity.

Sometimes it is enough to drink 3 courses of birth control pills to stabilize periods, make them less plentiful, remove PMS symptoms and increase the likelihood of future pregnancy.

But that's not all. Many girls with elevated levels of the male hormone (testosterone) suffer from acne, pimples and oily hair. Contraceptive pills are also effective here. Their short-term use will not harm the body.

There is an opinion that the benefit of hormonal contraception is also that during the period of using the pills, the ovaries rest, and this is good. Different doctors look at the situation differently. Some consider this a really positive effect, for others it is a harm.

If you look in more detail, it turns out that rest for the ovaries is useful for mature women after 35 years of age who have already had 1 or more pregnancies and no longer plan to have children. For nulliparous young girls, rest is not needed. There is evidence that later it is difficult to restore the full functioning of the ovaries. These are the dual consequences of taking birth control pills.

Why are contraceptive pills dangerous?

Despite the low doses of hormones in the composition of contraceptives, their harm to the body is palpable. The worst thing that these drugs can provoke is cancerous tumors of the ovaries, uterus and mammary glands. In each case, everything is individual. The harm from birth control pills has been scientifically confirmed by several laboratories.

This mainly concerns women who take pills for a long time. The danger lies in the extinction of the body's ability to reproductive function, a decrease in libido, the risk of developing thrombophlebitis and diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Is it safe to take birth control pills?

In the course of scientific studies, which were conducted with the participation of thousands of women, the percentage of negative consequences from taking COCs was revealed. So, in subjects who took pills for more than 8 years, the risk of developing oncology increased by 23%. This applies not only to the reproductive system, but to the whole organism.

The harm of oral contraceptives is to increase the incidence of cervical cancer by 2 times with long-term use of birth control pills. That is, the longer a woman uses this method of protection against pregnancy, the more she is subject to a terrible diagnosis. Therefore, taking pills for more than 3 years without interruption is a potential harm.

In the US, studies have been conducted to study the relationship between breast cancer and COCs. It was found that drugs with a high content of estrogen increase the risk of the disease by 44%. This is not all the information confirming the harm of hormonal contraception. Briefly about them in the list:

• gradual extinction of sexual desire;
• development of polycystic ovaries;
• swelling;
• weight gain;
• long and difficult adaptation to drugs;
• increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

The harm of contraceptives is most often felt by young girls who started taking them before their first pregnancy, and mature women after 35-40 years.

Indications and contraindications for admission

First of all, contraception is included in the list of indications. The instructions for use often indicate the possibility of using the remedy for the treatment of acne and severe PMS. In addition, doctors prescribe COCs to stabilize the hormonal background.

And here is a list of contraindications for birth control pills:

• phlebeurysm;
• thrombophlebitis;
• a history of stroke or heart attack;
• the presence of benign or malignant tumors;
• diabetes;
• kidney failure;
• pancreatitis;
• migraine;
• individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Attention! Harm from birth control pills is likely during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How birth control pills affect a woman's body

These contraceptives work according to a single scheme. Hormones block ovulation and release of the egg. In fact, the ovaries cease to perform their function, decrease in size and are difficult to restore with prolonged use of contraceptives. In addition, the structure of the endometrium of the uterus also changes. It becomes thinner and it is very difficult for the fertilized egg, if fertilization does occur, to attach to the walls of the uterus.

The effect of tablets can be expressed in the release of colostrum from the mammary glands, blood discharge in the middle of the cycle, and a change in the emotional state. COCs also often provoke the development of edema and weight gain.

Do hormonal contraceptives affect the thyroid gland?

The hormonal system is closely connected with the endocrine system, in the center of which is the thyroid gland. If hormones enter the body from outside, their synthesis by their own glands decreases or stops. With the thyroid gland, everything is more complicated. In studies, it was determined that taking contraceptives is harmful in the case of insufficient thyroid function and taking thyroxine. They provoke an increase in the hormone TSH, and the level of TSH and T4 practically does not change.

If a woman has a healthy thyroid gland, there will be no significant change in her work, but if there is a goiter, cysts and nodes, as well as an unstable level of hormones, contraception can harm the entire endocrine system.

Side effects after birth control pills

The severity of the consequences of taking hormonal contraceptives depends on many factors. If a change in well-being is observed within 1-3 months, this is the norm. During this period, the woman's body adapts to the intake of hormones and rebuilds to a new mode of operation. Of the side effects most often observed:

• nausea;
• swelling;
• pain in the lower abdomen;
• arterial hypertension.

Nausea while taking birth control

This condition provokes estrogen in the COC. It does not develop immediately, but by the end of the use of the first package. The woman feels bouts of nausea shortly after taking the pill. To make this side effect less noticeable, doctors recommend taking the pills in the evening before bedtime, after dinner.

Edema while taking birth control pills

In some women, the use of birth control pills causes fluid retention in the body. That is why many people confuse swelling with weight gain. If at the end of the adaptation period the edema does not go away, the drug should be replaced with another one. Especially if the swelling is very strong and, in addition to them, cellulite develops.

Stomach pain when taking birth control pills

These are the so-called estrogen-dependent epigastric pains. Many women feel this in the first 1-3 months of taking COCs. You can solve the problem by taking pills in the evening or replacing the drug with another, with a lower dose of estrogen. The drug is replaced after 1-3 months or immediately with severe pain. If the lower abdomen hurts when taking birth control pills and meager periods come quickly, there is no reason to worry. No harm was done to the body - these are echoes of PMS.

Doctors' opinion

Ignatieva Margarita Sergeevna, 40 years old, Moscow

From personal experience I know that if the drug is chosen correctly, the harm from it is minimal. On the contrary, a woman becomes more calm, is not subject to hormonal changes, and has good facial skin. The main thing is to regularly visit a gynecologist 2 times a year to do ultrasound and monitor the work of internal organs.

Sviridov Kirill Anatolievich, 50 years old, Sevastopol

The complexity and problem associated with the use of hormonal contraceptives is that it is very difficult to individually select the right drug. In my practice, there were cases when a woman changed 3-4 drugs until she found one that did not give complications.

Nikiforova Olga Vladimirovna, 34 years old, Tula

According to recent studies, most pathological changes in the work of the female genital organs occur due to estrogen. It follows from this that an additional influx of this hormone in the composition of tablets increases the risk of oncology. Of course, studies do not exactly provide such information and, moreover, do not provide statistics, but it is better to use COCs for a short time. So the damage will be minimal.

Conclusion

Not every woman experiences the harm of birth control pills. It all depends on the duration of admission, age, health status and individual sensitivity of the body. However, you need to know the side effects and cons of use in order to assess their impact on your own body and decide on the duration of use.

The word "hormones" causes fear in 60% of modern women. This fact is not surprising: hormone therapy is indeed quite a serious and often not harmless therapeutic measure. The dangers of hormonal drugs are often and much spoken about, while their benefits are rarely remembered. But few people think that hormonal therapy can significantly improve a person's quality of life, and sometimes even support this very life (with diabetes, thyroid diseases, bronchial asthma, etc.).

Are hormone pills harmful?

As a hormone hormone discord, and hormonal agents differ in the degree of positive and negative effects on the body. The ratio of harm and benefit of hormonal drugs is determined by the type of hormone, its concentration, frequency, duration and method of application.

Yes, of course, hormonal drugs do some harm to the body. But, as a rule, they do not cause more damage to health than the disease for which this drug is used. Today, there are diseases that cannot be treated without hormones.

Why are hormonal drugs harmful?

It must be clearly understood that the hormonal drugs of the 21st century cannot be compared with the hormonal drugs of the 20th century. If our mothers associated the phrase “hormonal treatment” with excess weight, edema, cellulite, unnatural hair growth, then in our time such side effects are minimized. But it is important to understand that the harm from the use of a hormonal drug will be minimal only if it is properly selected.

So, why are hormonal drugs harmful? To answer this question, you just need to read the instructions for use for a particular tool. In the "Side effect" section, as a rule, the whole range of possible (but not mandatory) side effects is indicated, among them are the classic ones: metabolic disorders, weight gain, excessive hair growth, skin rashes, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract, and more.

The harm and benefits of hormonal contraceptives

Hormone therapy in women most often involves treatment with oral contraceptives (OCs), the main purpose of which is contraception, and the therapeutic effect is achieved as a positive side effect. Discussions about the benefits and harms of hormonal contraceptives have been going on for many years.

Some theorists and practitioners of medicine, including alternative medicine, are categorically against the use of hormonal contraceptives in medical practice, since they cause irreparable harm to the female body in the form of: suppression of ovarian function, changes in the natural background of a woman, dangerous side effects.

Another part of the experts claims, and numerous scientific studies confirm that everything written above has nothing to do with modern OK. Huge doses of hormones, which were contained in the hormonal preparations of the first generations, caused serious harm to the female body. Improved OK of the new generation are distinguished by a mild effect on the hormonal background due to the maximum purification and the minimum quantitative content of the hormone. Against the background of OK reception:

• the risk of developing inflammatory and oncological diseases of the uterus and mammary glands is reduced;
• cosmetic problems are eliminated, the condition of the skin and hair improves;
• the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases and mastopathy is reduced;
• the course of PMS is facilitated, the duration and pain of menstruation decreases.

The benefit-to-risk ratio for hormonal contraceptive pills is unambiguously positive.

And to the frequent question of women: “How harmful are hormonal pills?” the following answer can be given: in the absence of contraindications, subject to the correct diagnosis and the correct selection of the drug - practically nothing. The first three months of admission (the period of adaptation to the drug) side effects are possible: nausea, headaches and dizziness, breast engorgement, mood swings, decreased sexual desire.

For the treatment of a wide range of diseases, various hormonal drugs are often used, which, in addition to being highly effective, have a number of side effects.

If used incorrectly, they can be very dangerous, and can also aggravate the patient's condition.

Harm of hormonal drugs: truth or myth ^

Hormones are products of internal secretion that are produced by special glands or individual cells, released into the blood and carried throughout the body, causing a certain biological effect.

In a healthy person, hormones are continuously produced by the endocrine glands. If the body fails, synthetic or natural analogues come to the rescue.

Why you shouldn't be afraid of hormones: benefits and harms

Treatment with hormones has been used in medicine for more than a century, but people still treat it with fear and distrust. Despite the fact that the use of drugs containing hormones can reverse the course of a serious illness and even save a life, many consider them harmful and dangerous.

Patients of endocrinologists are often terrified of the word "hormones" and unreasonably refuse to take hormonal drugs, fearing the appearance of side effects, such as weight gain and hair growth on the face and body. Such side effects, indeed, took place during the treatment with first-generation drugs, since they were of poor quality and contained too large doses of hormones.

But all these problems have long been in the past - pharmacological production does not stand still and is constantly developing and improving. Modern medicines are becoming better and safer.

Endocrinologists, in accordance with the results of the tests, select the optimal dose and regimen for taking a hormonal drug that mimics the function of the gland as in a healthy person. This allows you to achieve compensation for the disease, avoid complications and ensure the patient's well-being.

Today, hormonal preparations are produced, both natural (having a structure similar to natural hormones) and synthetic (having an artificial origin, but a similar effect). Depending on the origin, they are divided into several types:

• Animals (obtained from their glands);
• vegetable;
• Synthetic (composition similar to natural);
• Synthesized (not similar to natural).

Hormonal therapy has three directions:

1. Stimulating - is prescribed to activate the work of the glands. Such treatment is always strictly limited in time or applied in intermittent courses.
2. Blocking - is necessary when the gland is too active or when unwanted neoplasms are detected. Most often used in conjunction with radiation or surgery.
3. Substitution - is required for diseases that inhibit the production of hormones. This type of treatment is often prescribed for life, as it does not affect the cause of the disease.

The most common misconceptions about hormone therapy

Truths and myths about the dangers of hormones

Myth 1: Hormonal drugs are prescribed only as contraceptives

In fact, these drugs effectively fight many pathologies: diabetes, hypothyroidism, skin diseases, infertility, oncological neoplasms and other ailments.

Myth 2: When your health improves, you can stop taking hormones.

Such a misconception often crosses out the long work of physicians and provokes a rapid return of the disease. Any changes in the schedule of admission must be agreed with the attending physician.

Myth 3: Hormone therapy is prescribed as a last resort in the treatment of severe ailments.

In modern pharmacology, there are many drugs of a similar composition to get rid of diseases that do not pose a threat to the patient's life, for example, acne in adolescents or erectile dysfunction in men.

Myth 4: It is contraindicated to take any hormones during pregnancy.

In fact, expectant mothers are prescribed such drugs quite often, and self-refusal of them can lead to serious consequences. For example, when carrying out tocolytic measures or with hypofunction of the thyroid gland (replacement therapy).

Myth-5: Hormones accumulate in tissues during replacement therapy

This opinion is also wrong. Correctly calculated dosage does not allow excess of these substances in the body. But in any case, they are easily destroyed and cannot remain in the blood for a long time.

Myth-6: Hormones can be replaced with other drugs

If a deficiency of a certain hormone is diagnosed, then it is he who must be taken to restore health. Some plant extracts have a similar effect, but they cannot fully replace endocrinological drugs. In addition, their long-term exposure is undesirable due to the risk of allergic reactions.

Myth 7: Hormones make you fat

Excessive fullness does not arise from hormones, but from hormonal imbalance and metabolic disorders, as a result of which nutrients begin to be absorbed by the body incorrectly.

Myth 8: In the spring, the level of sex hormones increases.

Human endocrine functions are subject to both seasonal and daily cycles. Some hormones are activated at night, others - during the day, some - in the cold season, others - in the warm.

According to scientists, the level of human sex hormones does not have seasonal fluctuations, however, with an increase in daylight hours, the production of gonadoliberin, a hormone that has an antidepressant effect, increases in the body. It is he who can cause a feeling of love and euphoria.

Myth-9: Hormonal failure does not threaten young people

Hormonal imbalance in the body can occur at any age. The reasons are different: stress and excessive loads, past diseases, unhealthy lifestyle, taking the wrong drugs, genetic problems and much more.

Myth-10: Adrenaline is a “good” hormone, its sharp release benefits a person

Check your body fat percentage, BMI and other important parameters

Hormones cannot be good or bad - each is useful in its own time. The release of adrenaline really stimulates the body, allowing it to quickly cope with a stressful situation. However, the feeling of a surge of energy is replaced by a state of nervous exhaustion and weakness, because. adrenaline directly affects the nervous system, sharply putting it on alert, which necessarily causes a “rollback” later.

The cardiovascular system also suffers: blood pressure rises, the pulse quickens, and there is a risk of vascular overload. That is why frequent stress, accompanied by an increase in adrenaline in the blood, can lead to a stroke or cardiac arrest.

What are hormonal drugs

According to the method of exposure, hormonal drugs are divided into:

• Steroid: act on sex hormones and substances produced by the adrenal glands;
• Amine: thyroxine and adrenaline;
• Peptide: insulin and oxytocin.

Steroid drugs are the most widely used in pharmacology: they are used to treat serious diseases and HIV infections. They are also popular with bodybuilders: for example, Oxandrolone and Oxymethalone are most often used to give the body relief and burn subcutaneous fat, while Stanozolol and Methane are used to gain muscle mass.

In both cases, drugs cause irreparable harm to healthy people, so they are not recommended to be taken without evidence. AAS is based on the hormone testosterone, and for women they are the most dangerous: with prolonged use, they may develop primary male sexual characteristics (virilization), and the most common side effect is infertility.

What are the side effects of taking hormones?

Most often, side effects of hormonal drugs appear in the first two weeks after the start of taking in the form of the following ailments:

• dizziness and nausea;
• sweating;
• Shortness of breath, shortness of breath;
• Tides;
• Candidiasis;
• Drowsiness;
• Deterioration of the composition of the blood;
• Virilization (when women take steroids);
• Hypertension;
• Intestinal dysfunction.

In very rare cases, long-term use of "hormones" or their abuse can cause the development of oncology. To avoid this, it is necessary to periodically take tests and do liver tests to monitor your health.

Side effects of hormonal drugs in women: what to be afraid of ^

Side effects of hormonal contraceptives

When choosing a hormonal method of contraception, it is important to take into account all the features of the hormonal status of a woman. Find out which levels of hormones prevail in the body: estrogen or progesterone, whether there is hyperandrogenism (increased levels of male sex hormones), what are the concomitant diseases, etc.

This method of contraception is used by women quite often, because. considered one of the most effective. In most cases, there are no negative reactions, however, there are side effects of birth control pills, which can be with prolonged or improper use in violation of the instructions:

• Arterial hypertension;
• Anemia;
• Acute renal failure;
• Porfiria;
• hearing loss;
• Thromboembolism.

The most popular birth control pills are: Qlaira, Regulon, Jess, Tri-regol. For the treatment of infertility, on the contrary, Duphaston is most often used.

microdosed hormone pills

Side effects of hormonal ointments

Most often, such ointments are used to treat skin diseases: dermatitis, vitiligo, psoriasis, lichen, as well as allergies with external signs. What side effects can occur due to ointments:

• Stretch marks, acne;
• Atrophy of the treated skin;
• Expansion of blood vessels;
• The appearance of spider veins;
• Skin discoloration (temporary).

The safest and most effective is Prednisolone, which is available in the form of tablets or ointments.

Hormonal drugs for menopause

Hormone therapy for menopause helps to improve lipid metabolism, alleviate hot flashes, reduce anxiety, increase libido and prevent the development of atherosclerosis, but should only be done under medical supervision. What negative effects can occur with self-treatment:

• A sharp increase in weight;
• Fluid retention in the body, the appearance of edema;
• Breast engorgement;
• Severe headaches;
• Stagnation of bile.

Hormonal drugs for bronchial asthma

Treatment of this disease with hormones is prescribed in very rare cases for several reasons:

• Hormonal dependence and withdrawal syndrome may occur upon discontinuation of therapy;
• Significantly reduced immunity;
• Increased bone fragility;
• The production of insulin and glucose is destabilized, which is fraught with the development of diabetes;
• Worried about hair loss;
• Weaken muscles;
• Increased intraocular pressure;
• Fat metabolism is disturbed.

Of course, such a side effect does not always occur, but in order to avoid it, it is best to start treatment with weaker drugs.

It is worth noting that almost all hormonal agents affect the hormones of the thyroid gland or adrenal glands, so their use should be agreed with a specialist. In general, if the regimen is followed, side effects occur very rarely, however, such drugs are not prescribed unless absolutely necessary.

Reviews of doctors

Olga, 39 years old, endocrinologist:

“I often prescribe hormones to diabetics, but before that you need to pass all the tests in order to choose the right drug. If a doctor advises medicines without test results, this indicates his incompetence.

Daria, 43 years old, gynecologist:

“The best way to prevent pregnancy is to use oral contraceptives, besides, in some cases, they help to stabilize the hormonal background. You can get pregnant only 1-2 months after they are canceled, girls usually don’t have any problems with this.

Ekaterina, 35 years old, therapist:

“In the treatment of asthma, hormones are used very rarely and only when the disease has taken an advanced form. In other cases, it is better to limit yourself to weaker medicines.

Text: Evgenia Bagma

Hormonal imbalance causes many problems in the body. And then hormonal therapy, which is widely used in medicine today, comes to the rescue. But at the same time, talk about the dangers of hormones for health does not stop. So what are hormones - panacea or harm?

The harm of hormones is primarily expressed in their imbalance, which negatively affects mood and behavior, and a little later can provoke the occurrence of serious diseases.

The harm of hormones and their benefits

O the dangers of hormones first started talking in connection with hormone replacement therapy, which became widespread in the middle to the end of the last century, especially in the West. So, first of all, it began to be used to alleviate the symptoms of menopause, treat diseases such as dwarfism, hypothyroidism, Addison's disease, etc. Today, there are two opposing opinions: someone believes that hormone therapy is good for a person (especially for women) , others talk about the dangers of such and believe that such therapy can provoke many diseases, as well as obesity.

The last statement has a right to exist - it has already been established that hormones can increase the likelihood of breast cancer, increase the risk of thrombosis, etc. At the same time, medicine does not stand still, and hormonal drugs used several years ago differ from modern drugs - they are made using more advanced technologies, undergo a better degree of purification. Another example is hormonal therapy during menopause, which helps a woman to keep fit during this difficult period and not gain weight. On the one hand, hormones really cope with this task, but on the other hand, if a woman has already begun to recover, they can, on the contrary, only accelerate weight gain. As for the development of cancer cells, combined estrogen-gestagen preparations can cope with this side effect.

One of the reasons why some doctors are of the opinion about the harm of hormones is the ambiguity of the dosage. The level of certain hormones in the human body is not a constant value, since in the course of life and depending on various conditions, their content can fluctuate greatly. Therefore, treatment should be prescribed very carefully, taking into account individual characteristics, constantly monitoring the increase or decrease in hormone levels. But, often, neither patients nor doctors have the opportunity and time for such careful monitoring, therefore, in most cases, only average doses are prescribed, which can lead to excessive use of hormonal drugs, and the harm from such therapy will be unambiguous. At the same time, do not forget that our body is quite smart and is able to independently remove excesses of certain substances. But this happens only if all its internal systems work without failures, which, alas, is rarely to be expected. In addition, hormonal drugs can simply become addictive, and the endocrine glands simply become "lazy" to produce hormones on their own.

When is the risk of hormone harm justified?

Hormone therapy is perceived as an extreme, saving measure, used only when all other methods have failed, and the risk of complications or consequences of the disease is higher than the risk of complications from hormone treatment. It is very important that the medicines are correctly selected. The use of bioidentical hormones is recommended - they are a kind of "golden mean". As for hormonal contraceptives, they should also be selected individually, taking into account the characteristics of the woman, the state of her hormonal levels and under the supervision of her doctor. In diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract, gastritis and ulcers, hormonal patches or fast-absorbing tablets are recommended so that penetration into the stomach can be avoided. The risk of hormonal harm also greatly increases the indiscriminate and long-term use of drugs - usually a certain period is enough for the balance to return to normal. Continuous use of hormones is prescribed only if, for example, a woman has undergone an operation to remove an ovary.

The possible harm of hormones does not mean that they should be completely abandoned. They should simply be used only after consultation and under the supervision of a doctor, otherwise you may not only not help, but also greatly harm your body and worsen your health.

Hormonal drugs are a group of medicines that are used for hormone therapy. The effect of such drugs on the body has been studied well enough so that it does not cause concern.

Features of hormonal drugs

Such a broad group as hormonal drugs includes the following categories of drugs:

• Contraceptives.
• Therapeutic (drugs whose action is aimed at curing a disease caused by a lack of a hormone).
• Regulatory (for example, to normalize the menstrual cycle).
• Maintenance (insulin for diabetics).

All drugs affect the body of men and women in different ways. It all depends on the general condition of the body, the presence of serious diseases and the state of the immune system.

Medications

This group is used for hormone therapy and is available in the form of tablets and ointments. Tablets treat serious diseases caused by deviations in the hormonal sphere, and ointments have a local effect.

In girls who lack hormone production, the skin suffers from cracks and wounds in the winter, as the synthesis of new cells is disrupted. To deal with such an annoyance. The doctor prescribes creams, ointments and lotions containing hormones. Usually corticosteroids are included in the ointment, which are absorbed into the blood after a few hours.

Such drugs can seriously affect the body. Therefore, it is important to maintain the dosage and, when prescribing, immediately determine the duration of the course, since one wrong step can lead to complications of existing problems.

Regulatory drugs

Due to the peculiarities of the lifestyle of a modern woman, deteriorating nutrition and polluted ecology, many of the fair sex are faced with menstrual irregularities. This can affect not only the sexual sphere of the body, but also the general condition of the body. Hormonal disorders can lead to the development of breast cancer, as well as infertility. The action of hormonal drugs can help solve problems.

However, before admission, it is necessary to conduct examinations and tests. First, a blood test is performed for certain substances. He will be able to identify the lack of certain hormones or their excess. Such tests are quite expensive, but in order to solve problems, it is necessary to start treatment in a timely manner. After detecting a deficiency or excess of hormones, regulation of their content begins. For this, courses of injections or tablets are prescribed. Properly selected oral contraceptives will help normalize the cycle without harm to health.

Any remedy containing hormones requires scrupulousness in determining the dosage, since it is quite simple to cross the line of the required dose. For example, excess progesterone can lead to hair loss, swelling and pain in the mammary glands.

Hormonal preparations can be made on the basis of hormones of natural origin or they are synthetically produced substances. In case of endocrine diseases, the course of hormonal therapy is aimed at normalizing the hormonal background and normalizing metabolic processes. Depending on the functional state of a particular gland, hormone therapy is conditionally divided into replacement, stimulating and blocking.

Negative effects of hormones

For the body of both men and women, the use of hormonal drugs can cause such unpleasant consequences as:

• osteoporosis and ulcers of the mucous membrane of the duodenum and the stomach itself when taking glucocorticoids;
• weight loss and cardiac arrhythmia when taking thyroid hormone preparations;
• too sharp a decrease in blood sugar when taking insulin.

Hormonal drugs can cause you osteoporosis

The effect of hormonal ointments on the body

Preparations containing hormones for external use can vary greatly in the degree of impact on the body. Ointments and creams are considered the most powerful, gels and lotions contain lower concentrations. Hormonal ointments are used to treat skin diseases and allergic manifestations. Their action is aimed at eliminating the causes of inflammation and irritation on the skin.

Hormonal ointment is the safest of all drugs

However, if we compare ointments with tablets or injections, then their harm is minimal, since absorption into the blood occurs in small doses. In some cases, the use of ointments can lead to a decrease in the productivity of the adrenal glands, but after the end of the course of treatment, their functionality is restored on their own.

The effect of hormonal contraceptives on the body of a woman

Features of the influence of hormonal drugs on the human body are that many factors are perceived purely individually. The use of such drugs is not only an interference with natural physiological processes, but also an impact on the functioning of body systems during the day. Therefore, the decision to prescribe hormonal drugs can only be made by an experienced doctor based on the results of a comprehensive examination and analysis.

Hormonal contraceptives can be produced in various forms and dosages:

• combined;
• mini-drank;
• injections;
• plasters;
• subcutaneous implants;
• postcoidal drugs;
• hormone rings.

Combination preparations contain substances similar to female hormones produced by the ovaries. To be able to choose the optimal medicine, all groups of drugs can be monophasic, biphasic and triphasic. They differ in the proportions of hormones.

Knowing about the properties of gestagens and estrogens, certain mechanisms of action of oral contraceptives can be distinguished:

• decrease in the secretion of gonadotropic hormones due to the effects of progestogen;
• increased acidity of the vagina due to the influence of estrogens;
• increased viscosity of cervical mucus;
• in each instruction there is the phrase "implantation of the egg", which is a veiled abortive effect of drugs.

In the time that has passed since the appearance of the first oral contraceptives, the debate about the safety of the use of drugs does not subside, and research in this area continues.

What hormones are in contraceptives

Typically, hormonal contraceptives use progestogens, which are also called progestins and progestogens. These are hormones that are produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries, in small amounts by the adrenal cortex, and during pregnancy by the placenta. The main gestagen is progesterone, which helps prepare the uterus in a state favorable for the development of a fertilized egg.

Another component of oral contraceptives is estrogen. Estrogens are female sex hormones produced by the ovarian follicles and the adrenal cortex. Estrogens include three main hormones: estradiol, estriol and estrogen. These hormones are needed in contraceptives to normalize the menstrual cycle, but not to protect against unwanted conception.

Side effects of hormonal drugs

Each drug has a number of side effects that can occur when a decision is made to immediately stop the drug.

The most frequently recorded cases of side effects of hormonal drugs:

• Arterial hypertension.
• Hemolytic-uremic syndrome. It is manifested by such disorders as anemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure.
• Porphyria, which is a violation of the synthesis of hemoglobin.
• Hearing loss due to otosclerosis.

All manufacturers of hormonal drugs indicate thromboembolism as a side effect, which is extremely rare. This condition is a blockage of the vessel by a thrombus. If the side effects outweigh the benefits of the medication, it should be discontinued.

Side effects of oral contraceptives are:

• amenorrhea (absence of menstrual flow);
• headaches;
• blurred vision;
• change in blood pressure;
• depression;
• weight gain;
• soreness in the mammary glands.

Studies on the side effects of oral contraceptives

In foreign countries, studies are constantly being conducted on the side effects of hormonal drugs on a woman's body, which revealed the following facts:

• Hormonal contraceptives are used by more than 100 million women in different countries.
• The number of deaths from venous and arterial diseases is fixed at 2 to 6 per million per year.
• The risk of venous thrombosis is important in younger women
• Arterial thrombosis is relevant for older women.
• Among female smokers taking OCs, the number of deaths is about 100 per million per year.

Side effects of oral contraceptives

The effect of hormones on the male body

The male body is also seriously dependent on hormones. The male body also contains female hormones. Violation of the optimal balance of hormones leads to various diseases.

Excess or lack of estrogen leads to a decrease in testosterone production. This can cause problems:

• in the cardiovascular system;
• with memory;
• age-related gynecomastia;
• decrease in immunity.

If the balance of hormones is disturbed, a course of hormone therapy is necessary, which will help to avoid further deterioration in health.

Progesterone has a calming effect on the male nervous system and helps men suffering from premature ejaculation to solve sexual problems.

The normal content of estrogens in the male body has a number of useful properties:

• maintaining optimal levels of "good cholesterol";
• pronounced muscle growth;
• regulation of the nervous system;
• libido improvement.

With an excess of estrogen, it is noted:

• inhibition of testosterone production;
• body fat according to the female type;
• gynecomastia.
• Erectile dysfunction;
• decreased libido;
• depression.

Any of the symptoms is extremely unpleasant, so do not hesitate to visit the doctor. A competent specialist will be able to conduct a complete examination and prescribe a course of medications that will significantly improve the condition of the body.

Content

Medicines, which include natural or artificial hormones, have to be taken for various reasons, and women are more likely to take this. We drink them when we are afraid of getting pregnant or vice versa, we really want to conceive a child, and hormones also help to cope with menopause, acne and even cancer. However, many ladies are still afraid of this terrible word, depriving themselves of many opportunities. When are hormonal pills appropriate? Let's look at the important points.

The effect of hormonal pills

The vast majority of the processes occurring in the body in one way or another involve hormones produced by the glands and are responsible both for metabolism in general and for many individual functions, such as growth, reproduction, and the processing of substances. The human body constantly monitors the presence of hormones in the blood and, if they are deficient, tries to increase production, which means a change in the function of the gland. With the help of hormonal pills, you can restore the balance in the systems.

Contraceptive drugs have an effect on the body as a whole. Long-term use of such pills reduces the risk of cancer by about 50 percent. In addition, hormones help to make the cycle in the female body more regular, and the periods themselves often become less unpleasant. Drugs also help in eliminating acne, which is often a sign of hormonal imbalance.

Indications and contraindications

Hormones are prescribed in different situations, but the main points are:

1. Endocrine diseases.
2. Deficiency in the production of hormones by the body (drugs are used for stimulating effects to restore the previous hormonal balance, often this is done to normalize the menstrual cycle in the body and return the opportunity to conceive a child).
3. Problems with the female reproductive system (hormonal substances normalize the menstrual cycle, stop dysfunctional bleeding from the uterus, promote ovulation, bring the body to the hormonal balance required for conception).
4. Mastopathy or fibroids (to reduce the rate of cell division in the mammary glands and uterus).
5. Contraception.
6. Acne, pimples.
7. Menopause (to restore balance in the body and prevent the occurrence of arterial hypertension, osteoporosis and other problems).

General contraindications are also available, here they are:

1. Smoking.
2. Increased blood clotting.
3. Cardiovascular diseases.
4. Excess weight.
5. Liver and kidney failure.
6. Migraines with focal neurological symptoms.
7. Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
8. Increased risk of thrombosis.
9. Hormone dependent diseases.
10. Oncology.
11. Vaginal bleeding.
12. Diabetes.
13. Pancreatitis.

Side effects

Hormones can cause side effects in the body that include unwanted hair growth, skin problems, and more. When taking birth control, they can range from unpleasant discharge and swelling of the mammary glands to allergic reactions, you can still gain weight dramatically. Discontinuing the drug immediately often does not have the desired effect, since the effect of hormones can be prolonged, it will take the body some time to return to normal.

Types of hormonal pills

Drugs are divided into groups of hormones:

• glands of the adrenal cortex, which include glucocorticosteroids, used to combat allergies and inflammation, and also as painkillers.
• thyroid gland are used if it produces them in small quantities or, conversely, too much.
• sexual, which include androgens, estrogens, gestagens.
• anabolic drugs.
• pituitary, such as oxytocin and human chorionic gonadotropin.
• pancreas, one of which is insulin.

The use of hormonal drugs

Hormonal preparations are used in cases where the human body is not able to independently provide itself with the necessary amount of hormones. Such therapy is called substitution therapy, since the patient is forced to resort to it for a long time, which can often be extended to all the remaining years. Medicines containing glucocorticoids are used to combat allergies.

Contraceptive

Contraceptives are one of the surest ways to avoid unwanted pregnancy. The method of their action is the influence of female hormones on the reproductive system in order to prevent ovulation and conception. The choice of the drug should be carried out by a gynecologist, when using an incorrectly selected contraceptive, many health problems may occur, up to liver diseases and vein thrombosis. Let's look at which birth control pills are the most popular:

• "Diana 35". This is an oral contraceptive, characterized by a low content of hormones. In addition to direct contraception, it is used to treat seborrhea, problems with high levels of male hormones in the female body, acne and polycystic ovary syndrome. The drug affects ovulation, protecting against unwanted pregnancy. After stopping the hormonal agent, the girl can become pregnant again.
• Lindinet 20. A modern means of the latest generation of contraceptives. These pills contain completely insignificant hormonal doses, which negates the side effects. Already with a three-month intake of the drug, the normalization of the cycle is noted, menstruation becomes less unpleasant. Reduces the likelihood of endometriosis, cancer of the uterus or ovaries, mastopathy.
• "Jess". Birth control pills are an effective tool in the fight against acne, oily skin, as it counteracts male sex hormones. Often, gynecologists prescribe Jess contraceptive pills to girls from the age of 14 in order to combat acne and eliminate especially painful menstruation. A feature of the hormonal drug is that it cannot affect weight in any way.
• "Regulon". The composition of this drug includes gestagen and ethinyl estradiol, which act jointly on the pituitary gland, hormones make cervical mucus denser and more difficult to ovulate, which prevents sperm from entering the uterus and fertilization.
• "Janine". Tablets, which are monophasic combined contraceptives, contain gestagen and ethinylestradiol, which thicken the cervical mucus, affect ovulation, preventing spermatozoa from fertilizing.
• "Midian". It is an oral contraceptive based on drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, which affect the endometrium. Suppresses ovulation and prevents the fertilization of the egg.

Estrogens

The level of estrogen hormones is significantly higher in women. There are three types:

• estrone produced during menopause;
• estradiol, produced by all women of reproductive age;
• estriol produced by the placenta during pregnancy.

But sometimes the level of estrogen does not correspond to the norm, this happens due to bleeding, problems with bearing a child, infertility, the presence of tumors in the reproductive system and breasts. Estrogens include:

• "Dermestril". Contains estradiol and is used in menopause, eliminating hot flashes, postmenopausal osteoporosis, urogenital atrophy, sleep and mood problems.
• "Divigel". It has estradiol as the active substance. This drug is distinguished by its favorable effect on the development of specific female organs, such as the fallopian tubes, ducts of the mammary glands. It has a positive effect on the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, normalizes menstruation. In large doses, the hormone is able to reduce lactation, produce endometrial hyperplasia.

Thyroid gland

Levothyroxine sodium and triiodothyronine are thyroid hormones. If their level in the body decreases, this leads to such consequences as atherosclerosis, cognitive decline, weight gain, anemia. In the absence of diagnosis, treatment, problems with the thyroid gland can occur even in young people and result in dysfunction of other organs, apathy, loss of strength.

Thyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone. After passing through the kidneys and liver, it affects the growth, development of tissues in the body, as well as metabolism in general. Thyroxine affects the metabolism of fats and proteins, increases oxygen consumption, improves the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. At higher doses and long-term use, it affects the work of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland.

How to drink hormonal pills

If the doctor has decided to prescribe hormones, do not argue, but listen. He will prescribe a course of examinations to make sure that the hormonal drug can be drunk and there will be no harm to the body, and then determine the dosage. If you are going to drink birth control, then consult a gynecologist. After making an analysis for hormones and finding out what is missing, the doctor will be able to prescribe a remedy. The gynecologist also examines the breast for the presence of oncology, since hormonal preparations for tumors are not prescribed.

How to take contraceptives? In a certain order, once a day, to facilitate the blister, the days of the week are indicated, it will be difficult to make a mistake, miss a dose. The first tablet should be taken on the 1st day of menstruation or on the 5th, if it was not possible earlier. Later, this should not be done, because there will be a risk of becoming pregnant. Do not forget and skip the daily intake. One blister is designed for a month, there are tablets with the expectation of continuous intake, there are for 21 days (with a break of a week).

For breast augmentation

It is considered undeniable that the shape and size of the female mammary glands depend on genetic factors. At the same time, we should not forget that the female hormone estrogen affects the female breast. Some hormonal pills affect its production, resulting in changes in size. This effect is exerted by prolactin, which acts on estrogen receptors in the breast, and progesterone, which promotes the growth of breast tissue.

Taking hormonal drugs requires a careful approach, only the doctor will tell you what dosage you need. So, there are hormones that you can drink 4 times a day with an interval of 4 hours. It is worth noting that it will not be superfluous to use a special cream to increase the bust, in addition, taking such drugs requires careful attention to the diet. In order not to lead to the production of testosterone, you should forget about sweet, starchy foods, reduce protein intake.

For pregnancy

To determine the hormones that can help in the conception of a child, you will have to take urine and blood tests that will allow you to understand the state of the body. The ovaries produce estradiol, which is involved in the preparation of the uterus for conception, as well as testosterone, progesterone, a follicle-stimulating hormone responsible for eggs. Male testosterone, with its elevated level in the female body, makes it difficult to conceive, interfering with the normal course of pregnancy.

Progesterone, sometimes called the maternal hormone, is essential for the development of a baby in the womb. Conception is due to the normal function of the thyroid gland and pituitary gland. The latter is responsible for prolactin, which stimulates lactation and ovulation, and for luteotropin, which controls the production of estrogen in the female body. If conception does not occur for a long time, women are sometimes prescribed Femoston: it contains estradiol and dydrogesterone, which normalize and maintain the required hormonal level. This drug is a mixture of estrogen and progesterone.

For weight gain

Taking hormonal drugs can lead to weight gain. This is used by athletes who want to build muscle by using steroids, which include corticosteroids and sex hormones. In Russia, they are banned, which forced them to look for other ways, one of which turned out to be somatostatin, a growth hormone that can increase muscle mass.

However, you should be careful: hormones for weight gain should not be used without medical supervision. The doctor prescribes them to people with anorexia, emaciated, excessively thin. The drug "Duphaston" is very common: it was created for ladies who want to get pregnant, but for those who want to gain weight, it fits perfectly. Hormonal agents are prescribed after consulting an endocrinologist, he determines the dosage of the drug.

For acne

Hormone therapy is effective for acne. The use of preparations containing hormones will prevent excessive production of sebum. However, you need to be on the lookout, because they can lead to a deterioration in mood, weight gain and headaches as a side effect. At the end of the course, acne may return, and to prevent this from happening, it is necessary to simultaneously use antibacterial drugs, and preferably not antibiotics, but natural substances.

Subcutaneous fat is formed with the participation of androgens, which are most actively produced by the female body during menstruation. This leads to the appearance of acne on the skin on such days. It is possible to eliminate this phenomenon by means of hormonal tablets containing progesterone and estrogen, which will help the body maintain a balance of androgens. For this purpose, contraceptives, such as Jess, are often prescribed: they drink them in a course, one tablet a day.

What drugs to choose

It is not uncommon for women to base their decision on choosing one of the hormonal contraceptives based on advertisements or what their girlfriends say. Such a situation is unacceptable, because only a gynecologist, after all the necessary tests, examinations of the body, can recommend any of the remedies. If you decide to choose a hormonal drug on your own, then it may not only not have the desired effect, but harm your health, even death.

Video

In the plot of the TV show, the obstetrician-gynecologist will tell you how and at what moment hormonal contraceptives act on the body, why you should not be afraid to drink the drug. The doctor explains why birth control pills are good for acne, how they prevent uterine and ovarian cancer, and also explains the benefits of the intrauterine ring and IUD for treating certain gynecological diseases, such as endometriosis.