What are the Causes of Low Estrogen, and How Can It Be Treated?

What is Estrogen?

Estrogen is a hormone produced in the ovaries that affects sexual and reproductive health in females. This hormone plays a vital role in the development and growth of the female reproductive system and in maintaining breast health. While estrogen is also present in males, its impact is more significant in females, playing a crucial role in various aspects of a woman’s health, such as:

• Girls' growth and development during puberty, menstrual cycles, and breast development.
• Forming the uterine lining at the beginning of the menstrual cycle and before pregnancy.
• Breast growth during puberty in girls and breast enlargement during pregnancy.
• Directly impacting bone health and cholesterol levels in the blood.
• It also influences metabolism, weight, and insulin levels.

Symptoms of Low Estrogen

• Pain during intercourse due to vaginal dryness.
• Increased incidence of urinary tract infections.
• Irregular menstrual cycles and missed periods for several months.
• Feeling tired.
• Difficulty conceiving, especially for women under forty trying to get pregnant.
• Trouble concentrating.
• Frequent headaches and migraines.
• Feeling down or potentially experiencing depression.
• Mood swings.
• Experiencing hot flashes.
• Mild pain and excessive sensitivity in the breasts.
• Bone pain.
• Weight gain.
• Dry skin.

Why Does Estrogen Decrease in Women?

Estrogen levels typically begin to decline during menopause and the perimenopausal period, so women over forty often experience this condition. However, in some instances, a drop in Estrogen is not age-related and can occur for various reasons, including:

• Early ovarian failure.
• A sharp weight loss due to following strict diets.
• Excessive exercise is a mistake often made by young women aiming to lose weight.
• Chronic kidney diseases.
• Congenital issues, such as Turner Syndrome.
• Pituitary gland failure.
• Undergoing chemotherapy.
• Thyroid gland issues.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome.
• Type 1 diabetes.
• Elevated prolactin hormone levels.

What is the Treatment for Low Estrogen?

There are several options to treat reduced Estrogen, but it's crucial to consult your gynecologist and undergo thorough testing and examinations to choose the most suitable for your condition. Some prominent treatment methods include:

Estrogen Treatment

It is administered via pills, skin patches, vaginal suppositories, or injections. It's important to note that this option should generally not be pursued for more than a year or two since prolonged Estrogen intake can increase the risk of developing cancer.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

This is the most common option during perimenopause and menopause. A healthcare provider prescribes hormone therapy consisting of various hormones in different dosages tailored to your condition, adjustable over time. It's vital to highlight that this option might not be suitable for everyone indefinitely, so maintaining communication with your doctor to choose the most appropriate treatment is crucial.

Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle

Regular, balanced exercise and focusing on increasing muscle mass can positively impact bodily health and hormone level regulation. Adequate sleep and stress avoidance also play a role in maintaining hormonal health. Additionally, consuming foods containing phytoestrogens, a plant compound that mimics Estrogen, can be beneficial. Some of these foods include:

• Legumes: like soy, lentils, beans, and peanuts.
• Seeds: such as sunflower and flax seeds.
• Fruits: particularly berries, like strawberries and blueberries.

Final Word

Hormones are fundamental to women's health, directly influencing physical and mental well-being. Therefore, continuously monitor your hormone levels with your doctor, do not ignore any unusual symptoms, and obtain appropriate treatment if you face any health issues.