Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Reading time: four minutes
Estrogen is a key hormone in a woman’s body, playing a vital role in sexual development, reproductive health, and overall well-being. When estrogen levels drop, it can trigger a range of symptoms and health concerns.
In this article, we will explore the symptoms of low estrogen and how to manage and treat it.
Table of Contents
Common Symptoms of Low Estrogen
Low estrogen can manifest in various ways, and not all women may experience the same symptoms. However, some of the most common signs of low estrogen include:
- Irregular periods: Estrogen helps regulate the menstrual cycle, so a drop in levels can cause changes in your period.
- Hot flashes and night sweats: These sudden feelings of intense heat can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life.
- Vaginal dryness: Estrogen helps keep the vaginal tissues moist and elastic. A decrease in estrogen can lead to dryness, itching, and discomfort during sex.
- Mood changes: Estrogen plays a role in regulating neurotransmitters that affect mood. Low levels of estrogen can cause irritability, anxiety, or depression.
- Fatigue: Estrogen helps regulate metabolism and energy levels. When it drops, you may feel more tired than usual.
- Weight gain: Estrogen helps regulate body fat distribution, so a decrease in levels can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
Other symptoms of low estrogen may include brain fog, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, breast tenderness, dry skin and decreased libido.
Health Implications
Low estrogen does not only affect your day-to-day comfort but also your long-term health. Here are some areas impacted by reduced estrogen levels:
- Heart Health: Decreased amounts of estrogen can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
- Bone Health: Low estrogen levels contribute to brittle bones, bone loss, and a higher risk of fractures.
- Brain Health: Symptoms such as brain fog and mood swings are commonly linked to estrogen imbalance.
Risk Factors for Low Estrogen
Certain factors can escalate the decline in estrogen production:
- Menopausal Women: Menopause naturally reduces estrogen production.
- Ovarian Insufficiency: Conditions like ovarian failure or premature menopause.
- Excessive Exercise: Strenuous physical activity can lower estrogen.
- Family History: A history of hormonal imbalances or related health conditions.
- Cancer Treatments: Therapies that affect the ovaries and hormonal balance.
Diagnosing Low Estrogen
When you consult with Dr. Bruice, he will order blood tests to check your baseline hormone levels. The lab panel consists of estradiol, progesterone, total and free testosterone, thyroid level, DHEA, and human growth hormone testing.
Once he has your results, he will develop a personalized treatment plan. He uses bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to treat low estrogen and other hormone imbalances.
Why BHRT?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a safe and effective treatment for low estrogen. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones have the same molecular structure as the ones produced by your body. This makes them easier for your body to metabolize, minimizing side effects.
For more information about BHRT, read our Frequently Asked Questions About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy.
Patients taking BHRT have benefited from the positive effects of BHRT, including:
- Improved mood and energy levels
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced hot flashes and night sweats
- Increased libido and sexual function
- Healthier skin and hair
- Improve bone mineral density
Partner with Dr. Bruice For Better Health
Low estrogen levels can significantly impact your overall well-being and quality of life. If you are experiencing any symptoms of low estrogen, consult with Dr.Bruice for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
If you are searching for a hormone doctor in Denver, or BHRT near me, we can help. We have two convenient locations in Denver and Aspen. For our Denver location, call (303) 957-6686. For our Aspen location, call (970) 925-6655.
We will be opening a new location in St. Louis, MO – stay tuned for more details!
Patient Testimonials
“Had a great experience with Dr. Bruice! He listened to my concerns and prescribed me Bio identical HRT. We had a follow up appt after 6 weeks to make slight adjustments. What a game changer! I feel great and should have started sooner! Thanks Dr. Bruice! I highly recommend!”
“My husband and I have been seeing Dr. Bruce for several years. He has been assisting us with hormone replacement therapy. His diagnosis and treatment for us has been pivotal in bringing our youth back. I recommend his practice to all our friends. We’ll never go without his services.”
“I’ve been seeing Dr Bruice for 16 years now and I’ve been very happy with him as a doctor and the results I get from the hormone replacement cream he has prescribed for me. He cares about how I feel and I really believe he wants me to have the greatest quality of life. I am 64 years old and I honestly think that being on this hormone cream has helped me in so many ways. I have remained lean and trim, I have great muscle mass and no bone issues, I have not had any hot flashes or night sweats since I started and I’m not an emotional mess like it was before. Overall, it’s been a great experience.”