What is estrogen deficiency?
Estrogen deficiency occurs when estrogen levels in the body become too low. Estrogen is an important hormone that regulates many bodily functions in women. Some key points about estrogen deficiency include:
- Causes - Estrogen levels naturally decline with age and after menopause. Other causes can include surgical removal of the ovaries, certain medications or health conditions, and premature ovarian failure.
- Symptoms - Common symptoms of low estrogen levels are hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, bone loss, and joint pain.
- Risks - Long-term estrogen deficiency can lead to osteoporosis and bone fractures. It also increases the risk for heart disease and Alzheimer's disease in some women.
- Treatment - Estrogen deficiency is commonly treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This involves taking estrogen pills, skin patches, gels, sprays, or pellet implants to boost estrogen levels. The benefits vs risks of HRT should be discussed with your doctor.
- Lifestyle changes - Eating soy foods, doing weight-bearing exercises, practicing stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy weight may help manage low estrogen levels to some degree as well.
Some key questions about estrogen deficiency include:
- How do I know if I have low estrogen levels?
Getting bloodwork done to measure your hormone levels is the best way to find out. Your doctor can order these lab tests. Pay attention to potential low estrogen symptoms too.
- What are the pros and cons of estrogen HRT?
The benefits are relief of menopausal symptoms and reduced bone loss. Risks depend on when you start HRT and include blood clots, stroke, heart disease, and cancer. Discuss thoroughly with your doctor.
- What supplements can help increase my estrogen?
Phytoestrogens from soy foods, herbs like black cohosh, and omega-3 fatty acids may provide a mild estrogen boost. These are not as potent as prescription estrogen therapy though.
In summary, estrogen deficiency develops when the body does not produce adequate estrogen. It becomes more common as women age. Symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options should be discussed with your healthcare provider at Equilibrium Hormone Clinic to determine the best solutions for your individual case. Maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle can also help manage this hormonal imbalance.