Estrogen is the primary hormone that promotes the development and regulation of the female reproductive system of the body. This includes the growth of the secondary sex characteristics (breasts, pubic and underarm hair, endometrial, regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproductive system). They can also be produced artificially for use in oral contraceptives or treatment of menopausal and menstrual disorders.
Estrogen produces a suitable environment for fertilization, implantation and nutrition of the early embryo. High estrogen levels can happen naturally or as a result of medication.
Both estrogen and testosterone are found in both men and women. Women have more estrogen and men have more testosterone.
Symptoms of high estrogen
- Bloating, swelling and tenderness of breasts
- Decreased sex drive
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Headaches mood swings
- Fibrocystic developments in the breasts
- Weight gain
- Hair loss
- Cold hands and feet
- Feeling tired and lacking energy
- Difficulty with memory
- Trouble sleeping
- Increased symptoms of PMS
High estrogen can also be a factor of other conditions such as breast cancer and endometrial cancer.
Low levels of estrogen
Usually for older women going into menopause.
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
Younger women’s symptoms and causes differ from menopausal women. There can be a genetic disease, chemotherapy or radiation treatment, excessive exercise, eating disorders and too little body fat.
They include the above symptoms but there are more:
- Irregular or lack of menstruation
- Fatigue
- Early menopause
- Forgetfulness
- Insomnia
- Lack of desire
- Painful intercourse
- Bladder infections
- Headaches
- Bone loss
- Mood changes (crying, depression, irritability)
- Inability to become pregnant
- Dry skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Anorexia Nervosa
If you are concerned about your estrogen levels please contact our clinic and find out how to asses your estrogen level and how to remedy any non-optimal condition.