What Are Indicators of Not Enough Estrogen?

Estrogen plays a critical role in many bodily functions.

Estrogen is often considered a "female" hormone widely associated with fertility and femininity, even though men also produce and require it. In women, estrogen is largely produced by the ovaries and plays many roles in the body. Maintaining the level of this hormone is critical, and any imbalance in estrogen levels can cause several physical consequences.

The Role of Estrogen

A simple test can be used to measure estrogen levels.

Estrogen is a steroid hormone made up of three different hormones: estradiol, estrone and estriol. The role of estrogen in a woman's body is complex, and includes regulation of the menstrual cycle, formation of secondary sexual characteristics, acceleration of metabolism and prevention of heart disease. Women typically experience imbalances in estrogen between the ages of 45 and 55, which coordinates with the onset of menopause. An imbalance in estrogen levels can be measured with a simple test performed by a physician. This test typically involves a sample of blood, urine or saliva, which is evaluated in a laboratory to determine the estrogen content. A low estrogen level is classified at 10 to 20 pictograms per milliliter, and a high estrogen level would be around 200 pictograms per milliliter.

Common Symptoms

Unexplained weight gain is a common symptom of low estrogen levels.

Physical symptoms associated with low estrogen levels can range from mild to severe, and can vary widely from woman to woman. Among the most common signs of low estrogen levels are hot flashes, weight gain and fatigue. Other reported conditions include dry skin, memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, reduced libido, thinning hair, joint pain, water retention, depression, headaches or migraines, anxiety and vaginal dryness. A characteristic long-term side effect of low estrogen levels is osteoporosis, since estrogen helps bones absorb calcium and vitamin D. When estrogen is low, bones can become weaker and more brittle, with an increased risk of fractures.

Solution

Discuss low estrogen level symptoms and possible solutions with a physician.

For years, women have been encouraged to use hormone replacement therapy to deal with menopause symptoms. According to Health Canada, although HRT is effective at controlling hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness, recent studies have found that even short-term use increases the risk of blood clots, stroke and coronary disease. The use of HRT requires a medical examination and prescription, and the decision to use it should be based on personal needs and severity of symptoms. A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and exercise, moderate alcohol intake and no smoking, will help to manage menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis and coronary heart disease. Although aging and the onset of menopause is most often the cause of these symptoms, reduced estrogen levels can also be related to a number of other health conditions, such as atherosclerosis, vaginal infection, arthritis and depression. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with decreased estrogen levels, it is important to consult a physician or gynecologist.

References

• Natural Hormones: Estrogen
• Women's Menopause Health Center: Symptoms of Low Estrogen Levels
• Health Canada: Benefits and Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy (Estrogen with or without Progestin)