Melatonin is best known for regulating sleep-wake cycles, but it also plays a significant role in reproductive health. Its interaction with hormonal pathways affects various phases of the menstrual cycle, influencing fertility, ovulation, and hormonal balance. Tap to read!
The Menstrual Cycle and Melatonin
It interacts with the HPO axis, helping to regulate reproductive hormones that maintain a healthy menstrual rhythm.
Effect on FSH and LH
Melatonin helps with the balanced secretion of FSH and LH to support ovulation and lowers oxidative stress in ovarian follicles.
Effects on Sleep and Stress
Poor sleep patterns coupled with long-term stress lower melatonin levels, with subsequent disruptions to menstrual regularity and impairment of overall hormonal health.
Melatonin and Ovulation
Melatonin keeps egg cells going, supports ovulation, and, if unconstrained, can cause irregular or missed ovulatory cycles.
Melatonin and PCOS
Altered melatonin in PCOS may affect fertility; supplementation can help improve egg quality and cycle regularity.
Information credits
This information is sourced from PubMed. However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your health regimen, especially regarding hormonal or supplement use.