Also referred to as metastin, kisspeptin is a vital hormone that regulates reproductive function in human beings. According to research, kisspeptin is produced in the brain’s hypothalamus region. It acts on the pituitary gland, which causes the release of hormones responsible for controlling the menstrual cycle as well as reproduction.
Kisspeptin is a major component in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, a system of hormonal interactions necessary for sexual development and function. More studies also suggest that this hormone helps regulate an individual’s mood and emotions.
Kisspeptin and Low Sex Drive
Some people experience low sexual desire, and hormone treatment is one way to boost sex drive in men and women. Individuals with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) may benefit from the hormone kisspeptin.
Although HSDD affects more women than men (in most cases), people at higher risk of facing the condition are those with:
Mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and stress
Low estrogen and testosterone levels
Diseases like heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes
Low self-esteem
Relationship problems
People with smoking habits are also more likely to suffer from HSDD.
The following are the symptoms of HSDD:
Little or no sexual desire at all
Inability to get aroused
Inability to orgasm
Loss of erectile function in men
Loss of ejaculatory function in men
People with low sex drive don’t necessarily have HSDD. HSDD leads to distress, and individuals dealing with the condition are less happy and tend to experience more negative emotions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Kisspeptin Treatments
While kisspeptin treatments have shown promise in several areas of reproductive medicine, they have advantages and disadvantages. It’s worth noting that the use of kisspeptin to treat various conditions is still an area of ongoing research, meaning that people are still yet to know the full extent of its benefits and drawbacks.
Advantages
Some advantages of kisspeptin treatments are:
Potential to Improve Fertility
Kisspeptin therapy helps stimulate the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This hormone, in turn, triggers the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The two hormones are essential for reproductive function, and people with fertility issues can seek kisspeptin treatment to restore and enhance processes that enable the release of these hormones.
Lower Risk of Multiple Pregnancy
Unlike traditional fertility treatments such as gonadotropin injections, kisspeptin treatments can have a lower risk of contributing to multiple pregnancies when used in assisted reproduction.
Good Timing
Healthcare providers can precisely administer kisspeptin, allowing them to control the timing of reproductive processes like ovulation.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages include:
Limited Research
Research on the possible uses of kisspeptin has been promising, but many applications are still under study. It’s therefore difficult to accurately conclude its long-term effectiveness and safety.
Side Effects
Potential long-term side effects of kisspeptin treatments are yet to be established. Like other new medical therapies, its use can lead to unforeseen risks.
Costly
Kisspeptin therapy can be expensive, limiting access for individuals and couples needing fertility treatments.
Kisspeptin treatments also raise ethical concerns because of their control over reproductive processes. The main issues of concern are their potential for genetic manipulation and selective reproduction.
What Happens When One Has Too Much Kisspeptin
Excessive levels of kisspeptin in the body can affect reproductive function and the endocrine system. The potential effects of having too much kisspeptin are:
Impact on Fertility
Excess kisspeptin can affect fertility. Abnormal levels disrupt the hormonal balance necessary for ovulation and proper reproductive function, which can lead to infertility. On the other hand, very low levels of kisspeptin can also impair fertility.
Affects Menstrual Cycle in Women
High levels of kisspeptin can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle in women. In some cases, it can cause irregular periods and amenorrhea, an absence of menstruation.
Causes Precocious Puberty in Children
Elevated kisspeptin levels can also trigger precocious puberty, the early onset of puberty in kids. This can, in turn, contribute to developing secondary sexual characteristics at a very young age.
Metabolic Disorders
High kisspeptin levels may sometimes be associated with metabolic problems like insulin resistance and obesity.
Excessive kisspeptin levels are rare, and the effects can differ depending on the cause and the individual. If one suspects unusual kisspeptin levels, they should consult a healthcare provider.
Kisspeptin Alternatives
There are no direct alternatives to kisspeptin, but healthcare providers can recommend other treatments for fertility issues. The alternative strategies include:
Ovulation Induction
In cases of irregular menstrual cycles or a lack of ovulation, medications like letrozole and clomiphene can be used to stimulate ovulation.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
People with hormonal imbalances affecting reproductive function can seek hormone replacement therapy. The process may involve replacing deficient hormones such as progesterone and estrogen.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes like managing stress and maintaining a healthy weight can positively impact fertility and reproductive health.
Assisted Reproductive Techniques
Assisted reproductive techniques like intrauterine insemination may be helpful for couples with fertility issues. The methods deal with fertility challenges without directly impacting kisspeptin levels.
Counselling
Psychological and emotional factors can lead to sexual dysfunction and infertility. Counseling and psychotherapy can be used to address such issues.
Erectile Dysfunction Medications
Cases of male sexual dysfunctions can be improved or treated using medications like vardenafil and tadalafil.
The choice and approach of treatment depend on the diagnosis and underlying factors leading to reproductive issues. Health experts will conduct tests and evaluations to determine the best treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
Kisspeptin is a protein that controls the release of reproductive hormones in men and women. Gene abnormalities can lead to low levels of kisspeptin in the body, but individuals with the condition can undergo hormone treatments.
