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Mammogram and Hormone Test Results

by Amanda
(Houston, TX)

Hi Joy,

I've communicated back and forth with you about my persistent ovarian cysts and I'm currently increasing my dosage of progesterone cream as you advised. I did want to share some very exciting news from my mammogram on Wednesday. I've been getting mammograms since 2018 and this is the first time that there was no issue with either the diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound!!!! Because of breast density, I've been advised to get a diagnostic mammogram followed by ultrasound. This was the first time that the radiologist didn't come in to use the ultrasound to scan an area herself. My right breast was the "problem" one with a fibroadenoma and a incidental cyst. Since starting progesterone, I could tell a difference in how my right breast felt. This was the first time I was told come back next year!

I got the results of my hormone testing from 11/23. My FSH was 112 mIU/mL, estradiol was 29.3 pg/mL, testosterone was <3 ng/dL on a 4-50 ng/dL range, and my DHEA-S was 59 μg/dL. I'm less than happy with my gynecologist because these results were posted on my private patient portal before she reviewed them, in fact, they've been on the portal since 12/7 and she hasn't even reviewed them yet.

The above lab tests were done on 11/23 and on 12/1, I had a very, very light bleed lasting about 5-6 days, but so light I didn't even need a tampon. I'm going to ask her if she's concerned about my testosterone level being so low because I know women do need some testosterone although not the same amount as men. I know in Dr. Lee's book, he says that if needed women can get compounded testosterone from a compounding pharmacy and use a tiny bit each day. What are your thoughts about testosterone supplementation in addition to progesterone? I know that testosterone is important for bone density and lean muscle mass. And, does high cortisol directly lower testosterone? THank you so much for all your help!

Amanda

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Dec 18, 2021
 Mammogram and Hormone Test Results
by: Joy

Hi Amanda

What wonderful news! I am delighted that you have experienced the benefits of progesterone, keep going. Just a quick mention on mammograms. Have you considered Thermology? It's far safer and more accurate. Look it up.

I can't remember what I said to you previously which is why keeping one thread going is helpful. It's impossible to work out a progesterone:estrogen ratio as I do not see a progesterone test result. Why didn't they test for progesterone? It is such an important hormone and needed for hormonal balance. Please read the Hormone Testing page to check up on your other test results.

My thoughts on testosterone are the same as estrogen, I do not believe that any woman needs to take them. See here, here and here. You already know about estrogen. I am 66 and never used testosterone and never will. I certainly do not have a problem with bone density etc.

Most at risk are those who are ...

* deficient in vitamin D, most at risk are those who avoid or cover up when in the sun
* deficient in calcium, magnesium, zinc, boron and vitamin K
* deficient in protein
* exercise excessively, i.e. marathon runners and ballet dancers
* under exercise
* are or were anorexics and bulimics
smoke
* drink excessive amounts of alcohol and coffee, or carbonated soft drinks which contain large amounts of phosphorus
* deficient in certain amino sugars, particularly proteoglycans (PGs) and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)
have a low level of stomach acid and digestive enzymes, which is very prevalent in the elderly
had previously taken/are taking steroids, i.e. cortisone and the Pill, or anti-seizure or anticoagulant drugs
* had or have thyroid disease
* had a loss of menstruation for greater than 6 months, other than pregnancy
* eat a typical western diet of processed foods and refined grains

The page of Osteoporosis gives more information on this.

Progesterone suppresses excess estrogen and testosterone, it also relieves the pressure on the adrenals, as it lessens the stress response. Stress is the enemy, it destroys valuable nutrients and has an effect on all hormones as well as cortisol levels. The adrenals first secrete progesterone, which they then convert into cortisol. When a person becomes stressed the adrenals work overtime, as they also make the two other stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline. But if stressed, they can't keep up with the demand for cortisol. Testosterone and cortisol jointly regulate dominance see here.

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