Understanding Low Oestrogen Symptoms

Wondering why you’re suddenly dealing with hot flashes, moodiness, an absent menstrual cycle or a dip in sex drive? These perplexing signs could all point to one common issue: low oestrogen levels.

This article cuts through the confusion to swiftly identify the low oestrogen symptoms, laying out what you can expect and how to navigate the potential impact on your well-being. 

Understanding Oestrogen And Its Role in the Body

Oestrogen is a powerhouse hormone that orchestrates a symphony of functions in the female body. From regulating the menstrual cycle to maintaining bone health and even influencing mood, oestrogen is indispensable. This hormone, primarily produced by the ovaries during fertile years, ensures the smooth functioning of bodily systems.

However, hormone imbalances, particularly low estrogen levels, can throw this harmony off balance. Common symptoms of low estrogen levels include trouble concentrating , vaginal dryness, and irregular menstrual cycles. If left unchecked, low oestrogen can lead to more severe health issues like osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and even an increased risk of breast cancer.

Low Oestrogen Symptoms : Recognising The Signs

When oestrogen takes a nosedive, your body sends out an SOS in the form of symptoms. These red flags can be physical, emotional, or sexual - and sometimes a mix of all three.

From sweats that make you feel like a walking furnace to a heightened anxiety for no good reason, low estrogen levels don't come with a reliable roadmap when it comes to symptoms.

Physical symptoms include more than just the notorious hot flashes. Ever experienced night sweats that leave your bedclothes and bedsheets soaking wet? Or perhaps mysterious weight gain that just doesn’t add up with your diet and exercise routine? All these could be your body’s way of sounding the alarm about low oestrogen levels.

Physical Symptoms

Weight gain, night sweats, memory problems and even breast tenderness become the new normal, making it essential to monitor one’s health and be aware of potential risks, such as breast cancer.

Not only do these symptoms cause discomfort, but they can also impact overall health in the long run.

For instance, weight gain associated with lower oestrogen levels can lead to obesity, a risk factor for various health conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, night sweats can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and poor cognitive performance.

Emotional Symptoms

Low oestrogen levels don't just disrupt your physical body, t can create emotional turmoil as well. It’s like riding a roller coaster of mood swings, anxiety, and irritability - without the fun part. These emotional symptoms, while less visible, can be just as disruptive to daily life.

Fortunately, there’s hope. Therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy and natural adaptogens can help manage these emotional roller coasters. And don’t underestimate the power of a good workout! Physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood, making it a valuable tool in your low oestrogen management kit.

Sexual Symptoms

When you believe low oestrogen has caused enough trouble, it strikes at the most sensitive area - your sexual health. Decreased libido, painful intercourse, and vaginal atrophy are just some of the ways lower hormone levels like testosterone can disrupt your intimate life.

But there’s good news. Treatments, such as vaginal moisturisers and over-the-counter medications like Gina and testosterone gel for women, can help alleviate these symptoms. So even if low estrogen levels is messing with your sexual health, you don’t have to let it ruin your intimate moments.

The Root Causes: Factors Influencing Oestrogen Levels

Low oestrogen doesn’t occur without a cause, be it a sudden plunge or a slow decrease over time.

Comprehending what leads to lower oestrogen is fundamental to the management of its symptoms and reducing its health impact.

Ageing, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions not only lower oestrogen levels but can also increase the risk of chronic health issues like obesity, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

Menopause and Ageing

Menopause - it’s the stage of life all women face after their normal menstrual cycle, and it’s the most common culprit behind low oestrogen.

As we age and enter this phase, our ovaries begin to reduce oestrogen production. While this is a natural process, the symptoms that come along with it can feel anything but.

Some women may even experience premature ovarian failure before the age of 40 also known as early menopause which can cause similar symptoms. Low estrogen levels cause menopausal symptoms which can include:

• Hot flushes
• Lower Bone density
• Heightened anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• An increase in body weight
• An Increase in body fat - bloated belly
• Joint pain
• Memory loss
• Problems with focus and info retention ( brain fog)

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor about potential treatment options.

Hormonal Imbalances

Menopause isn’t the only factor that can mess with hormone levels. Lifestyle habits, such as excessive exercise or not eating enough can also throw your hormones out of whack. These imbalances can lead to low oestrogen, causing the same array of symptoms experienced during menopause.

In addition to lifestyle factors, genetics also play a role in hormone production. Your genetic makeup can determine how sensitive your body is to hormonal fluctuations, making some people more prone to hormonal imbalances than others.

It’s important to note that estrogen levels naturally fluctuate throughout one’s life, particularly during the menstrual cycle, affecting the production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are critical for ovulation and preparing the uterus for potential pregnancy.

Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions that can lead to decreased estrogen production include

• Premature Menopause
• Turner Syndrome
• Hypopituitarism
• Chronic diseases, such as kidney disease and autoimmune disorders

Understanding these medical conditions and their impact on estrogen levels can help you and your healthcare provider develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This can include medication, lifestyle changes, and other strategies to manage symptoms and improve your overall health.

Identifying Low Estrogen: Diagnosis and Risks

Having pinpointed the symptoms and grasped the causes, the next vital step is diagnosis. The sooner you diagnose low estrogen, the quicker you can take steps to manage its impact on your health.

Diagnosis can be done using your age as a benchmark and a series of questions. There is also a blood test that measures oestrogen levels which are a crucial part of overall hormone levels.

However, a thorough diagnosis should also involve an assessment of risk factors. Factors like age, lifestyle habits, and underlying medical conditions can all influence hormone levels and the likelihood of experiencing low estrogen symptoms.

Diagnostic Tests

A diagnosis of low estrogen using a simple blood test measures the levels of estrone, estradiol, or estriol in the blood ( or urine if urine test). The results of these tests can help your healthcare provider determine whether your symptoms are due to low estrogen.

Remember, these tests are merely one aspect of the overall diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will also consider your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. This comprehensive approach ensures a more accurate diagnosis and a more effective treatment plan.

Identifying Risk Factors

Risks for low estrogen forms a vital part of the diagnosis and treatment journey and include aging, family history, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or excessive exercise.

Understanding these risks can help you take proactive steps to manage your estrogen levels. For instance, if you’re a smoker, quitting can reduce your risk of premature menopause and low estrogen. Similarly, maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise routine can help keep your hormones in balance.

Effective Treatments: Hormone Replacement Therapy and Alternatives

After diagnosing low estrogen, the next step is investigating your treatment alternatives. HRT, estrogen therapy, and alternative treatments can all be effective in managing the symptoms of low estrogen and improving your overall health.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

HRT is frequently used as a treatment for low estrogen levels. It helps to alleviate the symptoms associated with this condition.

While HRT and estrogen therapy can effectively alleviate symptoms, it’s important to remember that it comes with potential risks and isn’t suitable for everyone. HRT can also stop working and needs to be reviewed yearly. 

HRT may not be recommended for people with a history of certain health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and blood clots. Get advice from your doctor or a healthcare professional on whether its an option for you.

Alternative Treatments

For those who can’t or prefer not to take hormone therapy, alternative treatments can offer relief from symptoms. These treatments include non hormone based adaptogens and herbs, supplements and fortified meal replacement shakes.

While these alternatives may not directly replace the oestrogen your body lacks, they can help manage the multiple symptoms of low estrogen and have multiple benefits. .

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Symptoms

Alongside medical interventions, implementing specific lifestyle changes can aid in managing low estrogen symptoms. These changes can include changing your diet and exercise routines.

The advantage of lifestyle adjustments is that they’re completely under your control and don't need a lot of investment. This empowerment can be a significant booster, not just for your physical health but also for your mental and emotional well-being.

Diet and Nutrition

Maintaining a balanced diet can significantly aid in managing low estrogen symptoms. Certain nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, are particularly beneficial for bone health - a concern for those with low estrogen.

In addition, foods rich in phytoestrogens, such as soybeans and flaxseeds, can help improve symptoms. Phytoestrogens are plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body, helping to balance hormones and alleviate symptoms of low estrogen.

Meal Replacement Shakes for menopause help to control weight and include adaptogens and essential vitamins to help target symptoms.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Consistent physical activity serves as another potent instrument for managing low estrogen. Exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight (which is beneficial for hormone balance), but it can also strengthen your bones and reduce stress.

Stress Management

There’s a close association between stress and hormones - stress triggers your body to release hormones, adrenaline and cortisol which means the adrenal glands cant help to boost estrogen naturally. That’s why learning effective stress management techniques is crucial in managing low estrogen symptoms.

Article Summary

In summary, estrogen is vital for a multitude of functions in the female body. Understanding its importance and the impact of hormone imbalances can empower women to take proactive steps in maintaining their health. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, medical interventions, or dietary adjustments, keeping estrogen levels in check is essential for overall well-being.

So, whether you’re dealing with hot flashes or battling mood swings, remember that you’re not alone. There are treatments, resources, and support available to help you navigate this journey. Take one day at a time, be patient with yourself, and remember - you’ve got this!

FAQ

What happens if your estrogen is low?

Low estrogen levels in women can cause symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, painful sex, headaches, and mood swings. These symptoms are commonly associated with menopause, but other factors like excessive exercise or ovarian complications can also lead to low estrogen.

How can I raise my estrogen levels quickly?

To raise your estrogen levels try consuming foods rich in phytoestrogens like soy products, flaxseeds, and chickpeas, while also maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating strength training into your routine. Stress management, adequate sleep, herbal supplements, and lifestyle modifications can also help.

What causes estrogen levels to drop?

Estrogen levels can drop due to ageing or the transition into menopause, but other factors can be involved as well. If you have concerns about low estrogen levels, it's best to consult with your doctor to discuss potential treatments.

What are the symptoms of low estrogen after menopause?

Low estrogen after menopause can cause symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms can impact various aspects of your health and should be discussed with a healthcare provider to explore treatment options.

Can diet impact my estrogen levels?

Yes, certain foods, like those containing phytoestrogens, can mimic estrogen, adaptogens, vitamins and minerals can help to balance responses in the body. So, your diet can impact your estrogen levels.