Hormone Levels: Insights for Women's Health

Female hormone index

Hello: My menstrual cycle was irregular and did not come before, but now my gynecologist prescribed a white granular medication for me to take for about a month.
After taking it for a month, my menstrual cycle came last month, and when I asked the doctor about my hormone levels from the blood test, they were around the forties, which is much better than the previous twenties.
The doctor mentioned that normal levels should be over a hundred.
Is this true? If I stop taking the medication, will my hormone levels increase on their own? I believe I consume some legumes, so I would like to rely on dietary supplements instead of medication.
Additionally, I also drink herbal soups like "Zhong Jiang" soup or "Si Wu" soup alternately; will this have any impact? Thank you for your response.

alice, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/04

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Please bring your test results when you come for your appointment.

Reply Date: 2005/09/04

More Info

Understanding hormone levels is crucial for women's health, especially during different life stages such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Hormones play a significant role in regulating various bodily functions, and imbalances can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues.

In your case, it seems that you have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, and your doctor prescribed a medication that has improved your hormone levels from the 20s to the 40s. While this is a positive change, your doctor mentioned that the normal range should be above 100. This indicates that while you are making progress, there is still room for improvement.
Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. During the follicular phase, estrogen levels rise, peaking just before ovulation. If you are not taking medication, your body will naturally produce hormones, but the extent to which they increase depends on various factors, including your overall health, diet, stress levels, and lifestyle.
Regarding your question about whether hormone levels will increase on their own if you stop taking the medication, it is possible, but it may take time for your body to regulate itself. Eating a balanced diet rich in phytoestrogens, such as those found in soy products, legumes, and whole grains, can support hormone balance. Foods like black beans, chickpeas, and lentils are excellent sources of plant-based proteins and can help in maintaining hormonal health.
Additionally, traditional remedies like "four substance soup" (四物湯) are often used in Chinese medicine to nourish the blood and improve overall health. While these remedies can be beneficial, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they do not interfere with any medications you are taking.
If you are considering stopping your medication, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor. They can provide guidance on how to taper off safely and monitor your hormone levels to ensure they remain within a healthy range.
In summary, while dietary changes and traditional remedies can support hormone health, they may not be sufficient to replace hormone therapy if your levels are significantly low. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider are vital to managing your hormone levels effectively. If you have concerns about your hormone levels or the effects of medication, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Light Menstrual Flow and Hormonal Imbalances in Women

Thank you, doctor, for your response! Four years ago, I had a blood test, but I'm not sure if prolactin was measured. Here are the data for your review. Thank you! Estradiol (pg/ml): 77 FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone Immunoassay) (mIU/ml): 6.32 LH (Luteinizing Hormon...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Answer: It is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and prolactin levels were not detected.

Addressing Hormonal Deficiency in Pregnant Women: Key Concerns and Solutions

Dear Sir/Madam, My daughter is 32 years old and has a two-year-old son. She is currently four months pregnant. This month, during her prenatal check-up, blood tests revealed that her hormone levels are too low. According to the doctor, her hormone levels are comparable to those ...

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
With the advancements in ultrasound technology and various prenatal examinations, it is now rare to draw hormones from pregnant women, unless it is during the early stages of pregnancy when a heartbeat is not yet visible, in which case progesterone may be tested as a reference fo...

Understanding Hormone Levels After Hysterectomy: What You Need to Know

Hello Doctor, I underwent a hysterectomy for uterine fibroids in January of this year. Recently, my attending physician conducted a hormone test, and my result was 422 (the doctor mentioned that the standard is 50). In comparison, my peers of the same age had a result of only 88 ...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
General hormone testing typically measures follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). The normal reference range for FSH is up to 40, while DHEA-S usually ranges from 10 to 400. A blood value of 422 should still be considered normal. If DHEA-S...

Understanding Hormone Test Results: What High Levels Mean for Your Health

Hello doctor, I recently had hormone tests done, and the results are as follows: growth hormone 2 and prolactin 43 (which has previously been as high as 80-90). Is this considered normal? If it is not within the normal range, what effects could it have?

Dr. Zeng Kongyan reply Neurology
Hello: In response to your question, elevated prolactin levels need to be assessed in conjunction with clinical symptoms. If symptoms include milk secretion or irregular menstruation, it is essential to consider the possibility of a pituitary tumor. Otherwise, certain antipsychot...