Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Low Estrogen

Women with low estrogen (also known as estrogen deficiency or hypoestrogenism) can have no signs or symptoms or can suffer from many signs and symptoms that tell us she is low in estrogen.

Estrogen is a hormone that plays a crucial role in reproductive health and other bodily functions of both women and men. Men can also suffer problems from low estrogen.

While there actually three different types of estrogen, Estrone (also known as E1), Estradiol (E2 which generally the estrogen we think of as Estrogen), and Estriol (E3) when we talk about estrogen we will always be talking about E2, Estradiol.

The Most Common Side effects of Estrogen Deficiency or Hypoestrogenism in Women

While there are literally hundreds of weird symptoms of low estrogen which can occur, these are the most common.

1. Irregular or Absent Menstrual Periods

Prior to the onset of menopause or during the peri-menopause women with low estrogen levels may experience episodes of menstrual period irregularity during their menstrual cycles. They can also have intermittent missed periods or very light periods. The menstrual cycle can be totally normal, just lighter than before, or they can become totally irregular, very confusing and even result in very disturbing episodes of heavy bleeding.

2.Hot Flashes

Sudden, intense waves of heat, often causing sweating, flushing of the face, and not infrequently a rapid heartbeat. They can last for a second or two, minutes and very occasionally hours.

3. Vaginal Dryness

Decreased estrogen levels can lead to a lack of vaginal lubrication, resulting in discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse. This dryness might not hurt, but it can be quite uncomfortable and disturbing, in that the woman, “feels different.” Something has changed and this can throw her and her life off balance for a long while.

4. Sleep Disturbances

Insomnia, night sweats, or disrupted sleep patterns can occur as a result of almost any hormonal imbalances, but is most common with low estrogen. Millions of women suffer from unrecognized sleep deprivations. Sleep deprivation leads to chronic fatigue, forgetfulness, anxiety, as well as many chronic health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity, and depression. Sleep deficiency is also associated which increased risk of injury in adults, teens, and children, but especially post-menopausal women who might have osteoporosis and suffer a fracture which requires weeks or even months of healing and is associated with a very high rate of mortality.

5. Mood Swings

Low blood estrogen levels can affect neurotransmitter levels and lead to a host of nervous system changes which often include: mood disturbances (unexpected episodes of anxiety and/or depression and swing back and forth from on to the other), increased irritability, and even profound states of depression or anxiety.

6. Fatigue

Feeling tired or lacking energy can be a symptom of low estrogen.

7. Decreased Libido

A decline in sexual desire or interest in either sex or your relationship may occur due to decreased estrogen levels.

8. Cognitive Changes

Some individuals may experience difficulties with memory, concentration, or overall cognitive function. Recall may slow down and lead many women or their family members to believe that they have dementia, even Alzheimer’s Disease.

9. Hair Loss

Thinning of the hair or hair loss can be associated with low estrogen levels.

10. Bone Loss

Estrogen helps maintain bone density, so low levels can contribute to osteoporosis or an increased risk of fractures.

Conclusion:

It is important to remember that while these symptoms are often associated with low estrogen, they can also be caused by other medical conditions.

Learn how can you raise your estrogen by consulting to a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Advanced Wellness Medical can help evaluate your estrogen and other hormone levels, providing valuable insights into any potential issues related to low estrogen.

Remember, understanding the symptoms of low estrogen is the first step toward seeking the necessary medical support for optimal health and well-being.

Article by Dr. Allen Lawrence, M.D.

If you have questions call me at 310-879-9266 or 844-222-577

or write me at info@AdvancedWellnessMedical.com