Welcome to EmpowHER. That is a very good question.
Hormones regulate the menstrual cycle. Principally, the follicle-stimulating hormone and the lutenizing hormone, which are produced in the pituitary gland, along with estrogen and progesterone which are secreted by the ovaries, have the major roles.
During periods of stress, the adrenal glands increase production of cortisol. High levels of cortisol affect bodily functions including the reproductive system. In essence, the brain signals for certain "non essential functions" to shut down. The menstrual cycle is one of them.
Women with hypothyroidism often have menstrual cycle irregularities, ranging from absent or infrequent periods to very frequent and heavy periods.
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Hello Anonymous,
Welcome to EmpowHER. That is a very good question.
Hormones regulate the menstrual cycle. Principally, the follicle-stimulating hormone and the lutenizing hormone, which are produced in the pituitary gland, along with estrogen and progesterone which are secreted by the ovaries, have the major roles.
During periods of stress, the adrenal glands increase production of cortisol. High levels of cortisol affect bodily functions including the reproductive system. In essence, the brain signals for certain "non essential functions" to shut down. The menstrual cycle is one of them.
Women with hypothyroidism often have menstrual cycle irregularities, ranging from absent or infrequent periods to very frequent and heavy periods.
Regards,
January 21, 2015 - 11:14amMaryann
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