INFERTILITY

If you are using progesterone for the first time, please read - Vitamin D3  Estrogen Dominance and First Time Users

Numerous factors and reasons contribute to infertility. Here are several common elements that play a role in the symptoms:

  • a progesterone deficiency
  • a vitamin D3 deficiency
  • high estrogen and/or testosterone levels
  • high FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)
  • high LH (luteinising hormone)
  • oxidative stress due to a lack of antioxidants
  • contraceptives - these can cause the ovaries to malfunction after discontinuing
  • stress of any kind
  • endometriosis
  • PCOS (poly cystic ovaries syndrome/cystic ovaries)
  • environmental toxins - particularly estrogen mimics
  • overweight
  • underweight
  • a deficient diet leading to malnutrition
  • low sperm counts or abnormal sperm
  • diabetes
  • hyperprolactinemia
  • thyroid disorders

One of the most prevalent yet often misunderstood factors is a deficiency of progesterone during the latter half of the monthly cycle, commonly referred to as a 'defective luteal phase.' In the initial half of the menstrual cycle, estrogen promotes the growth of the uterine lining, a phase called the follicular or proliferative stage. Following ovulation, when progesterone is secreted by the corpus luteum, the lining thickens in readiness for a fertilized egg. The luteal or differentiation phase, constituting the second half of the menstrual cycle, typically lasts between 12 to 14 days.

Progesterone is essential for a successful pregnancy. If the interval between ovulation and menstruation is shorter than 12 days, it indicates that there has been insufficient production of progesterone.

Conception frequently occurs in a fertile woman; however, the egg may not successfully implant into the uterine lining, potentially leading to a miscarriage as soon as the subsequent menstruation. This situation can arise when fertility levels are elevated, yet progesterone is notably low, creating an impression of infertility in the woman.

Symptoms of a miscarriage can include a heavier menstrual flow, clots, and/or pain. The journey of the egg to the uterus takes approximately 12-14 days; if the corpus luteum fails to sustain adequate progesterone levels during this period, menstruation may occur before the egg can implant. This situation can be effectively addressed by supplementing with progesterone, which helps to prolong the luteal phase.

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The anovulatory cycle serves as another indicator of infertility. This condition occurs when ovulation fails to happen and is frequently seen in women in their mid-thirties, although it is becoming more prevalent among younger women as well. This phenomenon is driven by excessive levels of FSH and LH. An overabundance of FSH and LH overstimulates the ovaries, leading to the production of excessive estrogen and testosterone. When these four hormones are present in excess, not only is ovulation inhibited, but progesterone production is also hindered. It is believed that excessive contraceptive use or heightened stress levels contribute to this issue.

Contraceptives - Many women experience difficulties with ovulation after discontinuing contraceptive use. Since contraceptives are designed to inhibit ovulation, they can lead to temporary infertility. At first, the ovaries produce estrogen and testosterone, but it may take several cycles for ovulation to resume. A significant imbalance can occur in the ovaries if estrogen and testosterone levels become excessively high. Supplementation with progesterone can help regulate the menstrual cycle.

Stress - is indeed a significant concern. It reduces progesterone levels while increasing cortisol levels, both of which are indicators of infertility. The adrenal glands generate progesterone before converting it into cortisol. When the adrenals are fatigued, they may seek alternative sources of progesterone, typically from the ovaries. This affects the reproductive cycle. Additionally, stress can lead to anovulation and miscarriages. Progesterone is highly beneficial for managing stress, as it stimulates the GABA receptor sites. GABA is among the most soothing neurotransmitters.

Oxidative Stress - is frequently a contributing factor to anovulation. A deficiency in Vitamin D3 leads to oxidative stress in the ovaries, resulting in impaired function. Additionally, vitamin D3 plays a crucial role in the development of the fetus. It is advisable to consider getting a vitamin D3 test. Other antioxidants may also be necessary to alleviate oxidative stress.

Endometriosis - is caused by too much estrogen and oxidative stress which leads to Inflammation, a definite sign of infertility. This now causes problems to any egg trying to embed itself in the endometrium. High doses of progesterone is needed to help reverse this.

Hormonal imbalances are another reason for infertility, environmental toxins being the cause. Over 100 estrogen mimics are available today - please see Our Stolen Future for more information on this. Issues arise when the developing fetus is exposed to these toxins. At this stage, males are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of such toxins (estrogen).

Excess weight is a contributing factor to infertility. The adrenal glands produce a hormone named androstenedione, which fat cells can convert into estrone (oestrone), one of the primary estrogens. This conversion leads to elevated estrogen levels, resulting in an imbalance. Progesterone serves to counteract this excess. Conversely, insufficient body fat also poses a risk. Women need to maintain their body fat at a minimum of 20% of their total weight; otherwise, menstruation may cease.

Diet is always important. A diet deficient in good quality protein and the good fats and oils can lead to malnutrition causing the ovaries to malfunction. A lack of protein can lead to hyperprolactinemia due to lack of tyrosine in the diet. Tyrosine is an amino acid and is the precursor to dopamine which is needed to increase dopamine level. Prolactin will now increase with the high estrogen level and low dopamine level. As with estrogen, it also suppresses progesterone. Progesterone is now needed to suppress estrogen and prolactin.

PCOS - (poly cystic ovary syndrome) is becoming an increasing problem worldwide and is one of the most common signs of infertility. Anovulation takes place often which leads to problems conceiving and carrying a child. Like endometriosis, oxidative stress is the major cause. Anti-oxidants are essential, particularly vitamin D3, both these have successfully reversed PCOS in a number of women.

Diabetes - is another reason and miscarriages do take place as well as birth defects due to high blood glucose. Please see Insulin Resistance

Thyroid - both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can affect ovarian function. A vitamin D3 and iodine deficiency can cause the thyroid to malfunction. Please have these tested.

Other signs are - STD's, adrenal disease, genetic factors, tubal blockage and age.

Watch this video on Vitamin D3 and the Prevention of Chronic Diseases.

To re-cap - the following needs to be considered:

  • progesterone - 200mg, possibly more per day is needed. This is dependant on symptoms
  • vitamin D3 - most important to have a test done. More information on the Vitamin D page
  • PCOS/Endometriosis - high doses of antioxidants are needed
  • prolactin level - if high, take tyrosine (amino acid)
  • zinc and iodine levels need to be tested
  • diabetes - test for insulin resistance
  • stress - try to avoid as much as possible
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