Hormones During the Ovulation Phase for Conception

Female Hormones in the Ovulation Phase

During the ovulation phase, estrogen levels reach their peak. Estrogen is a female hormone that contributes to both health and beauty. In terms of health, it aids in the development and maintenance of reproductive organs, including the growth of the breasts and reproductive tract, the thickening of the endometrial lining, menstruation, pregnancy, and the creation of a rounded, feminine body shape. Additionally, estrogen has a stabilizing effect on mental well-being, allowing individuals to approach things more positively during the follicular phase when estrogen levels increase. For beauty, estrogen promotes skin hydration and elasticity. Its ability to boost metabolism helps expel water and waste, reducing swelling.

Estrogen thus offers numerous beneficial effects for women.

Starting in the follicular phase, estrogen levels gradually increase, prompting the gradual thickening of the endometrial lining. When estrogen reaches its peak in the ovulation phase, the brain signals the release of an egg from the follicle in the ovary. This process is known as "ovulation." The endometrial lining thickens in response to estrogen, preparing to receive a fertilized egg.

Maximizing Estrogen's Effects

Estrogen not only benefits physical and mental health but also plays a key role in preparing for regular menstruation and potential pregnancy. To maximize estrogen's effects, improving lifestyle habits like diet and sleep can help, especially if estrogen levels are low.

• Consume Soy Isoflavones

Soy isoflavones have a molecular structure similar to estrogen, allowing them to support and supplement estrogen’s effects. Soy isoflavones can be found in foods like tofu, natto, miso, okara, and fried tofu.

However, naturally supplementing estrogen through food is generally challenging. While no foods directly increase estrogen, the foundation is a balanced diet.

• Get Quality Sleep

Female hormones are released in response to signals from the brain, which is sensitive to bodily threats and stress. When the brain senses stress or perceives the body as being in danger, female hormones may not be released normally.

In other words, even minor stress can disrupt hormone release. Lack of sleep is a common cause of stress, so aim for at least 6 hours of sleep each night. The ideal time for deep sleep is between 10 pm and 2 am when female hormone production is at its peak.

• Warm the Body

Try warming up in a bath. Bathing shifts the autonomic nervous system from sympathetic (active) to parasympathetic (rest and relaxation) mode. The parasympathetic nervous system helps the body relax and release tension.

When the parasympathetic system is active, it stimulates the release of β-endorphins, which relieve stress, and serotonin, known as the "happiness hormone."

Reduced stress and balanced autonomic function improve blood flow to organs and promote active estrogen secretion.