Hormonal balance is fundamental to achieving (and maintaining) a pregnancy. Although we often talk about eggs, ovarian reserve or embryo quality, behind these processes there is a team of hormones working together. If you are looking to get pregnant, either naturally or with the help of reproductive treatment, knowing all about them can help you better understand your body.
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH): your ovarian reserve indicator
It is produced by small follicles that have not yet begun to mature in the ovaries. Its levels do not vary throughout the menstrual cycle, which is why it is used as a very reliable indicator of ovarian reserve - the number of eggs left in your ovaries.
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): the kick-starter
It is released from the pituitary gland (in the brain) at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Its job is to stimulate the growth of follicles in the ovaries, which contain the eggs. An adequate level of FSH is key to the development of a dominant follicle and, with it, ovulation.
LH (Luteinizing Hormone): the hormone that triggers ovulation
Also produced in the pituitary gland. Its peak around the middle of the menstrual cycle is what triggers ovulation: the release of the mature egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube.
Home ovulation tests measure the LH surge. It is also monitored during assisted reproduction treatments to schedule ovarian puncture or insemination.
Estradiol: the hormone for follicular development
This is a type of estrogen produced by the follicles as they grow. Its increase helps the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) to thicken and be ready to receive the embryo.
Progesterone: the pregnancy maintainer
After ovulation, the corpus luteum (what remains of the follicle that released the egg) produces progesterone. This hormone makes the endometrium receptive and promotes embryo implantation. Low levels of progesterone can hinder implantation or cause early miscarriages. In most treatments, progesterone is supplemented to ensure its function.
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): the one that confirms you're pregnant
If the embryo implants successfully, it starts producing HCG. This hormone is what pregnancy tests detect and what keeps the corpus luteum functioning, so that it continues to produce progesterone.
Its levels are monitored in the first few days after embryo transfer or insemination to confirm that the pregnancy is progressing correctly.
Prolactin and TSH: the ones to watch as well
Although not directly linked to the ovarian cycle, both prolactin (related to lactation) and TSH (thyroid hormone) can influence fertility. Altered values can interfere with ovulation or embryo development.
At IGIN we analyse your hormonal profile in depth to understand what is happening in your body and design the most appropriate treatment for you. Every woman has a different and unique hormonal balance.
If you are trying for a baby and want to know if your hormones are in balance, you can come for an initial consultation without any obligation. We will be happy to accompany you from the first step.