skin and reproductive system

Skin and reproductive system: complex interconnection

The skin, the largest organ of the human body, and the reproductive system, responsible for the continuation of the genus, seem to be individual systems. However, on a more detailed examination, their close relationship becomes obvious, due to general hormonal, immune and nervous mechanisms. This article is devoted to the study of this complex connection, the study of the effect of hormones on the condition of the skin, the skin manifestations of reproductive diseases, the effect of pregnancy on the skin, as well as other important aspects of the relationship between skin and the reproductive system.

Hormonal effect on the skin: key players and mechanisms

Hormones play a central role in the regulation of many functions of the body, including growth, development, metabolism and reproduction. They also have a significant impact on the condition and function of the skin, affecting the production of sebum, moisture, pigmentation, hair growth and wound healing.

• Androgens: This is a group of steroid hormones, including testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DGT) and dehydroepiapiantrosterone (DGEA). They are produced both in men and in women, although in different quantities. Androgens have a powerful effect on the skin, stimulating the production of sebum with sebaceous glands. An increase in the level of androgens, especially during puberty, often leads to the development of acne (acne) due to excessive production of sebum, which clogs pores and creates a favorable environment for the propagation of bacteria Cutibacterium acnes. Androgens also stimulate hair growth on the body, including hair on the face, chest and back in women (hirsutism). In addition, androgen can contribute to the development of androgenic alopecia (male baldness) both in men and women. The mechanism of action of androgens includes binding with androgenic receptors in skin cells, which leads to activation of genes that control the production of skin fat and hair growth.

• Estrogens: This is a group of female sex hormones, including estradiol, estrone and estriol. They play an important role in the development of female sexual characteristics, the regulation of the menstrual cycle and maintaining bone health. Estrogens also have a significant effect on the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which helps maintain the elasticity and elasticity of the skin. They also improve skin hydration, increasing the content of hyaluronic acid. A decrease in the level of estrogen, which occurs during menopause, can lead to dry skin, thinning, wrinkles and decrease in elasticity. Estrogens also have anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin inflammation with acne and other skin diseases. In addition, estrogens can affect the pigmentation of the skin, suppressing the production of melanin.

• Progesterone: This is another important female sex hormone that plays a key role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy. Progesterone can affect the skin, although its effects are less pronounced than that of estrogen. It can stimulate the production of skin fat, although to a lesser extent than androgens. Increasing the level of progesterone during pregnancy can contribute to the appearance of acne in some women. Progesterone can also affect the pigmentation of the skin, contributing to the appearance of melasma (chloasma), also known as the “mask of pregnancy”.

• Cortisol: This is a stress hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisol can have a significant effect on the skin, suppressing the immune system and contributing to inflammation. Chronic stress and increased cortisol level can lead to a deterioration in the skin of the skin with acne, eczema, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin diseases. Cortisol can also slow down the healing of wounds and contribute to the appearance of stretch marks (striae).

• Insulin and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1): These hormones play an important role in the regulation of glucose metabolism and cell growth. A high level of insulin and IGF-1 can contribute to the development of acne, stimulating the production of androgens and skin fat. A high content of carbohydrates and sugar can lead to an increase in the level of insulin and IGF-1, which can worsen the condition of the skin with acne.

Skin manifestations of reproductive diseases: markers and diagnostics

Some diseases of the reproductive system can manifest by skin symptoms that can serve as important diagnostic markers. Recognition of these skin manifestations can help in early diagnosis and treatment of reproductive diseases.

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCU): This is a hormonal violation, which is characterized by irregular menstruation, hyperandrogenia (increased level of androgens) and polycystic ovaries. The skin manifestations of SPKU include acne (especially in the area of the chin and lower jaw), hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face, breast and back), androgenic alopecia (male baldness) and Acanthoss nigricans (dark, velvety spots on the skin, such as neck, armpits and gangs). Acanthosis nigricans indicates insulin resistance, which is often observed with PCO.

• Inborn hyperplasia of the adrenal glands (VGN): This is a genetic disease, which is characterized by a deficiency of enzymes necessary for the production of cortisol. As a result, the adrenal glands produce an excess amount of androgens. The skin manifestations of VGN include acne, hirsutism and androgenic alopecia.

• Tumors, secreting androgens: Rare ovarian tumors or adrenal glands can produce an excess of androgens, which leads to the appearance of acne, hirsutism and androgenic alopecia.

• Endometrios: This is a disease in which a tissue that looks like a uterine mucosa (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. Although endometriosis is not always manifested by skin symptoms, in rare cases, endometrioid lesions of the skin may occur, especially in the scars after cesarean section or other surgical interventions. These lesions can cyclically bleed in accordance with the menstrual cycle.

• Premature puberty: This is a state in which puberty begins earlier than usual (up to 8 years in girls and up to 9 years in boys). The skin manifestations of premature puberty include acne, the growth of hair on the pubis and armpits.

• Syndrome of resistance to androgens: This is a genetic disease in which the body does not respond to androgens. Depending on the degree of resistance, various skin manifestations can develop in men, including the female type of physique, the lack of hair growth on the face and body and gynecomastia (increase in the chest glands).

Pregnancy and skin: hormonal changes and skin problems

Pregnancy is accompanied by significant hormonal changes that have a significant effect on the skin. During pregnancy, many women have various skin problems, which, as a rule, disappear after childbirth.

• Melasma (chloasma): This is a common skin disease, which is characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the face, especially on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip. Melasma is often called a “mask of pregnancy”, as it often develops during pregnancy. Melasma is due to the increased production of melanocytes under the influence of pregnancy hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. Solar radiation exacerbates melasm, so pregnant women are recommended to use sun -protection products with high SPF.

• Stretches (striae): These are linear scars on the skin that appear as a result of rapid skin stretching during pregnancy. Stretches often appear on the stomach, chest, hips and buttocks. They are due to the rupture of collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, especially increasing the level of cortisol, can reduce skin elasticity and contribute to the appearance of stretch marks.

• Acne: Some women during pregnancy have a deterioration in acne, while in others the condition of the skin improves. Hormonal changes, especially increasing the level of progesterone, can stimulate the production of sebum and contribute to the development of acne.

• Quickly: Itching of the skin is a common symptom during pregnancy. In most cases, itching is caused by dry skin, skin stretching or pregnant cholestas (impaired bile outflow from the liver). Cholestasis of pregnant women can be a serious condition that requires medical observation.

• Pigmentation change: During pregnancy, darkening of the skin in the nipples, areol, Linea Nigra (a dark line coming from the navel to the pubic bone) and old scars can be observed. These changes in pigmentation are due to increased production of melanin under the influence of pregnancy hormones.

• Varicose veins: During pregnancy, the volume of blood increases and the tone of the veins decreases, which can lead to the development of varicose veins on the legs.

• Inflammatory skin diseases: During pregnancy, inflammatory skin diseases, such as eczema and psoriasis, can be aggravated.

Contraception and skin: the effect of hormonal drugs

Hormonal contraception, such as oral contraceptives (OK), can have a significant impact on the condition of the skin.

• Oral contraceptives (OK): OK contain synthetic hormones, estrogen and progestin, which prevent pregnancy, suppressing ovulation. OK can have a different effect on the skin. Some OK can improve the condition of the skin with acne, reducing the production of androgens and skin fat. Other OK, especially those that contain progestins with a high androgenic index, can worsen the condition of the skin with acne. OK can also affect the pigmentation of the skin, contributing to the appearance of melasma.

• Other hormonal contraception methods: Hormonal intrauterine spirals (Navy) and implants can also affect the skin, although their exposure is usually less pronounced than OK. Injection contraceptives containing only progestin can worsen the condition of the skin with acne.

Treatment of skin diseases associated with the reproductive system: integrated approach

Treatment of skin diseases associated with the reproductive system requires an integrated approach, which takes into account both skin symptoms and the underlying reproductive disease.

• Acne at PCA and VGN: Treatment of acne for SPKU and VGN includes the use of local acne treatment (for example, benzoilperoxide, salicylic acid, retinoids), systemic antibiotics, as well as hormonal therapy aimed at reducing the level of androgens (for example, oral contraceptives, spironolactone, finsterida).

• Covered To: Treatment of hirsutism includes hair removal (for example, shaving, wax depilation, laser hair removal), as well as hormonal therapy aimed at reducing the level of androgens (for example, oral contraceptives, spironolactone, finsterida).

• Melasm: Treatment of melasms includes the use of sunscreen with high SPF, local clarifying agents (for example, hydrochinone, azelainic acid, transxamic acid), as well as laser and chemical peels.

• Stretch marks: Treatment of stretch marks includes the use of local products containing retinoids, collagen, hyaluronic acid, as well as laser and radio frequency procedures.

• General skin care: It is important to maintain skin health with proper care, which includes soft cleansing, moisturizing and protecting from the sun.

The influence of the psychological state on the skin and the reproductive system

The psychological state, such as stress, anxiety and depression, can have a significant impact on both the skin and on the reproductive system. Stress can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, which can worsen the condition of the skin with acne, eczema and psoriasis, as well as negatively affect the reproductive function. Anxiety and depression can violate the menstrual cycle and reduce fertility.

In conclusion

The relationship between the skin and the reproductive system is complex and multifaceted. Hormones play a key role in the regulation of both skin function and reproductive function. Skin manifestations can serve as important diagnostic markers of reproductive diseases. Pregnancy is accompanied by significant hormonal changes that have a significant effect on the skin. Hormonal contraception can also affect the condition of the skin. Treatment of skin diseases associated with the reproductive system requires an integrated approach, which takes into account both skin symptoms and the underlying reproductive disease. It is also important to take into account the influence of the psychological state on the skin and reproductive system. Understanding this complex relationship allows you to develop more effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of skin diseases and reproductive system.