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Lipedema – an issue that particularly affects women. In this context, female hormones are repeatedly mentioned as a possible cause for the development of lipoedema and their influence on its further course. Hormones have a significant influence on the body, particularly in certain phases of life such as puberty, pregnancy and the menopause.
In this article, we will therefore take a closer look at the role hormones can play in lipedema and discuss treatment options in more detail.
Hormones have an immense influence on our body tissue and metabolism. Hormones are a particularly important factor for women, as they regulate the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and the menopause. But hormones also play an important role in certain diseases. They can cause fat cells to multiply and favour inflammation. Even if the exact causes of lipedema have not yet been fully researched, it is natural to assume that the pathological fat distribution disorder is also influenced by this.
During puberty, the female body begins to change and hormone production starts to rise sharply. An increase in oestrogen levels can cause fat cells to multiply and the tissue to swell. This leads to increased fat storage in the hips, thighs and legs. If lipedema is already present, it can be exacerbated by hormonal changes.
Taking hormonal contraceptives can sometimes lead to major changes in the body. When taking the pill in particular, fatty tissue can increase in various areas – including in areas affected by lipedema. As already explained at the beginning, the cause of lipedema is not definitely due to hormones – but it cannot be ruled out either. It is therefore advisable for lipedema patients to use non-hormonal contraceptive methods.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes often occur in the body in order to ensure the supply of nutrients to the unborn child. This can lead to increased fat storage in the hips, thighs and legs, which can also exacerbate existing lipedema.
Oestrogen levels drop dramatically during the menopause. This can really throw the body off balance. Hot flushes, sleep disorders and stress are possible symptoms that can also be responsible for worsening lipedema or causing a flare-up of lipedema.
In addition to hormonal factors, other aspects are also associated with lipedema as possible causes.
A genetic predisposition can be identified in many sufferers. In some cases, it therefore appears that lipedema is passed on from one generation to the next. Often several women in a family are affected. However, not all women in a family automatically have lipedema; other factors can also play a role.
Another suspected cause of lipedema is impaired lymph vessel function. Lymphatic fluid can accumulate in the tissue due to a disruption in lymphatic drainage. This can cause the tissue to swell. In many cases, however, impaired lymphatic function is not the only possible cause of lipedema. Psychosocial stress – for example after the loss of a close relative or severe family conflicts – is also considered a possible trigger factor. This causes the body to release cortisol, which is generally known as the stress hormone. However, this has not yet been sufficiently researched as a possible cause.
If you are affected by lipedema, it can be an enormous burden. However, there are various treatment options that can help you deal with the condition and alleviate the symptoms.
Conservative treatment can help to alleviate the symptoms. Decongestive therapy, such as manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandages or compression stockings, can help. Sport and exercise can also have a positive effect on lipedema as they stimulate lymph flow. However, conservative therapy cannot completely cure lipedema, the symptoms can only be alleviated.
Liposuction is an effective way of treating lipedema. This involves removing the excess fatty tissue. Unlike conventional liposuction, which only aims to improve the aesthetic appearance, liposuction for lipedema involves the complete removal of the diseased fat cells. These fat cells are particularly resistant to diet and exercise and do not regress on their own.
This is why liposuction is currently the only way to treat lipedema in the long term.
If you decide to have liposuction for lipedema, it is important to choose an experienced doctor or clinic. LIPOCURA® is a clinic that specialises in liposuction for lipedema and works with a gentle procedure. Before liposuction, a comprehensive consultation is carried out to find the most suitable treatment method for the individual patient.
Living with lipedema can be challenging, but remember, it is possible. The symptoms can be alleviated with the right methods. These include a healthy diet, regular exercise and targeted physiotherapy. But the right mindset is also important! You should start by accepting yourself and your body and not letting the illness define you. A positive attitude and support from family and friends can also help you to cope with life with lipedema.
It will certainly also help you to talk to other sufferers and seek support. There is now a large lipedema community that is constantly growing.
Lipedema is a complex disease in which many factors are involved – including hormones, especially in certain phases of life such as puberty, pregnancy and the menopause. But cheer up, there are ways to lead a good life even with lipedema. If you need support, LIPOCURA® can help you. Our specialist doctors are specialised in liposuction for lipedema and will be happy to welcome you for a personal consultation.
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