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2.2.7 Reproductive health, menstrual cycles, UTIs and PSSD

2.2.7 Reproductive health, menstrual cycles, UTIs and PSSD


As part of normal female reproductive health, oestradiol normally elevates on days 10–12 and 22–26 of the menstrual cycle. This decreases cortisol levels and promotes IFN-γ activity. Without chronic infection, these alterations would allow for increased energy availability and libido. With chronic infection, these alterations allow for increased immune activity, pain / inflammation in infected tissues, neurological and emotional challenges, etc. Conversely, oestradiol is low on days 1–8, allowing cortisol to increase – decreasing immune activity and increasing anxiety.

[source: Feingold KR et al., editors. South Dartmouth (MA): MDText.com, Inc.; 2000-.]

Both of these situations are ultimately helpful, long-term. However, no one enjoys the symptoms of immune activity. Supplements like DIM, found in broccoli and calcium d-glucarate can help reduce the effect of these hormonal alterations.

Metabolism described in this disease model can significantly influence urinary tract infections by weakening the immune system, promoting bacterial growth in the urinary tract due to elevated glucose levels, renal excretion of oxalates, impaired nerve function and bladder emptying.

Similarly, pathogenic species found in the nasopharynx, oral, gut and other microbiomes may translocate or be transferred to urinary and sexual organs, potentially leading to further sexual dysfunction, pain and inflammation.

This may be more prevalent in PSSD, PCOS, endometriosis, cystitis, prostatitis and epididymitis sufferers, however dysbiosis and biofilm formation in urinary and sexual organs is generally found across the entire scope of chronic diseases.

For renal and urinary tract infections, methylene blue protocols and the ‘purple foods’ containing anthocyanins may be particularly relevant. Elderberries and chokeberries appear to be the richest sources of anthocyanins and will provide the same benefits in other tissues. Bacteriophages and protective probiotics can be extremely helpful.