30/03/2025
Stress and elevated cortisol levels can disrupt ovulation by interfering with the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn affects the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to irregular or absent ovulation.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Stress and Cortisol:
When you're stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with the normal functioning of your menstrual cycle.
GnRH and LH/FSH:
Cortisol can disrupt the release of GnRH from the hypothalamus, which is crucial for triggering the release of LH and FSH from the pituitary gland.
Ovulation:
LH and FSH are essential for regulating the production of estrogen and progesterone from the ovaries, which are necessary for ovulation.
Disrupted Ovulation:
Elevated cortisol levels can lead to an imbalance in LH and FSH production, potentially causing anovulation (the absence of ovulation) and irregular or absent menstrual cycles.
Mechanism:
Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, leading to enhanced glucocorticoid secretion (like cortisol) and concurrently inhibits gonadotropin secretion (LH and FSH), disrupting ovarian cyclicity and ovulation.