Rebecca Smith A.S.K  C.M.H. C.Hyp  P.N.L.P
Systematic Kinesiologist, Hypnotherapist, Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming
7, Barclays Bank Chambers, High Street, Newport, Shropshire.  TF10 7AU
Phone: 01952 813348 Mobile: 07976 819938 Web: www.newportcomplementaryhealthclinic.co.uk

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An Introduction to Female Hormones

Females depend on the balance of their hormones to feel well mentally and physically.  Hormone balance varies from one woman to another, based on family history, lifestyle, stress, diet and chemistry of the body.  Fluctuating levels of the main hormones, oestrogens, progesterone and androgens, are key in shaping a woman’s monthly cycle – affecting changes in mood, sleep, Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS), appetite and sexual drive.

While it is important to balance all hormones, it is thought that focusing on oestrogen metabolism (breakdown of oestrogen) is the safest 1^st approach.

Excess oestrogen can cause problems and occurs from internal and external sources.  Internal from excess fat cells and the adrenal glands, which is why being overweight and/or stressed, have to be considered.   Externally, some foods, chemicals and in particular, certain types of plastics mimic oestrogen and create havoc when the body is exposed to them.

Fibroids, endometriosis, painful and/or heavy periods, infertility and PMS have all been noted as symptoms of excess oestrogen or poor management of it.

Naturally, when a woman reaches the menopause, or “change of life”, her ovaries will produce less oestrogen which can result in hot flushes, sleep disturbance, low sexual drive, mood swings and more! Ladies please be reassured, this is not always the case!  But giving the deficient hormone to correct this imbalance would not be a safe thing to do.

It is the liver that deals with the breakdown of oestrogens, finally being released from the body via the bladder and bowels.  Therefore, weight management, liver support, stress reduction and proper bowel function all need to be assessed.

Nutritional Factors That May Help Oestrogen Breakdown

Studies show the following may attect the body's ability to handle oestrogen.

• Soluble dietary fibre  (oats)
• Complex carbohydrates (wholemeal products)

New legislation prevents me from listing the nutritional supplements commonly used to assist oestrogen pathways in the body, but Kinesiology testing can reveal the most appropriate for each individual.

What Can Go Wrong?

The complexity of the female physiology means there are many bits that can go wrong.  Following editions will feature this subject in more detail, listed here is a brief mention.

Liver Function / Hormone Balance – the liver breaks down old hormones once they have done their job – if not, there is an excess in the bloodstream.

Stress – stress can directly affect the reproductive system, i.e. emotional trauma can stop the periods. Excess stress = more oestrogen and the hormone prolactin which can prevent ovulation causing problems with fertility.

Weight – being overweight aids the production of oestrogen and underweight can stop periods causing oestrogen to fall, with risk of osteoporosis.

Blood Sugar Imbalance – sugar causes weight gain which = excess oestrogen = hormonal problems.  Sugar means more insulin is produced, which causes more fat and high oestrogen.

When dealing with any female hormone problems, the focus is always on balance.  Many female clients on getting well, report that finally they feel a sense of balance in their body, mind and their lives in general.

In part 2, I look forward to sharing with you, how at Newport Complementary Health Clinic I help ladies naturally, to improve symptoms such as PMS, menstrual migraines, heavy, painful or irregular periods, the menopause and other female hormonal related problems.

The information contained in this article is intended for information purposes only.  It is not intended to replace the advice of a medical practitioner, nor is it intended to offer the reader any advice on the condition or symptoms mentioned.  Always seek the advice of a medical practitioner before embarking on any new health regime.


Rebecca Smith at Newport Complementary Health Clinic.