Prostaglandins are substances with chemical structures resembling hormones. Role prostaglandins is considered important because it is needed in the reproductive system and the wound healing process.
Naturally, the body will produce prostaglandins when needed. Balanced levels of prostaglandins are capable of overall body health.
Functions of Prostaglandins in the Reproductive System
Prostaglandins are produced by the body throughout the menstrual cycle. Its function is to stimulate the uterine muscles to contract to help expel menstrual blood.
This can trigger menstrual pain. If the pain experienced is so painful, it could be that the trigger is high levels of prostaglandins in the body.
In pregnant women, prostaglandins help the uterus contract and make the cervix open wider so that it can speed up the labor process. Therefore, drugs containing prostaglandins will usually be given at the time of labor induction.
During induction, the doctor may also inject drugs containing oxytocin after administration of prostaglandins.
The roles of prostaglandins in the reproductive system include:
- Controls excessive bleeding after delivery.
- Prevent patent ductus arteriosus, which is a condition in which the ductus arteriosus (the channel between the aorta and the pulmonary artery) remains open after the baby is born.
Not only in women, prostaglandins are also beneficial for the male reproductive system. In men who suffer from erectile dysfunction, prostaglandins can be used as drugs to stimulate an erection or maintain an erection.
The Role of Prostaglandins in the Healing Process
The body will naturally produce prostaglandins when you are injured. The formation of prostaglandins during injury aims to help the wound healing process. Here is the explanation:
- When the body tissue is damaged or infected, prostaglandins along with various other substances will start the healing process which is characterized by pain, fever, and swelling.
- When bleeding occurs, prostaglandins stimulate blood clotting and contraction of blood vessel walls to stop bleeding.
Beware of Prostaglandin Deficiency or Excess Effects
The role of prostaglandins is very important for the body. That's why we need to keep the body from lack or excess of prostaglandins.
If the body lacks prostaglandins, the body's response to wound healing can be slower. Meanwhile, if the levels are too high, the risk for arthritis, heavy bleeding, severe menstrual pain, and cancer tends to be greater.
To overcome the lack of prostaglandins, doctors will usually prescribe drugs that contain prostaglandins. Meanwhile, if the levels of prostaglandins in the body are high, the doctor may give anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, to inhibit the production of excess prostaglandins.
The function of prostaglandins is not small for the body. However, if you experience symptoms of a prostaglandin deficiency or excess, such as severe pain during menstruation or sores that are difficult to heal when injured, consult your doctor immediately. The doctor will carry out further examinations and provide appropriate treatment.