Estrogen deficiency occurs when a woman's body produces too little of the hormone estrogen. Estrogen is essential for many bodily functions and a shortage can lead to various unpleasant symptoms and health risks. Some key facts about estrogen deficiency:
- The most common cause is natural menopause, which usually begins between the ages of 45-55. During this transition, a woman's ovaries gradually produce less estrogen.
- Surgical menopause brought on by removal of the ovaries can also trigger estrogen deficiency at any age.
- Some medical conditions like premature ovarian failure or Turner's syndrome can lead to low estrogen levels earlier in life.
- Low body fat is another potential cause since fat cells produce estrogen. Extreme dieting or eating disorders may be a factor.
- Certain medications can interfere with estrogen production, including aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer treatment.
Symptoms of estrogen deficiency may develop gradually or relatively suddenly. They include:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse
- Increased urinary tract infections
- Mood changes like irritability, anxiety, depression
- Difficulty concentrating and memory lapses
- Insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Decreased bone density and osteoporosis risk
The long-term health risks are significant. Estrogen helps protect heart health and bone density in women. Deficiency raises the chances of developing:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Osteoporosis and bone fractures
- Dementia and cognitive decline
- Parkinson's disease
- Colorectal cancer
If you suspect estrogen deficiency, see your healthcare provider. They can check hormone levels via bloodwork and evaluate your symptoms. Treatment options include:
- Hormone therapy with estrogen, often with progesterone
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators like raloxifene
- Lifestyle changes like eating soy foods rich in phytoestrogens
The physicians at The Hormone Hub specialize in detecting and treating hormone imbalances in both women and men. We offer cutting-edge hormone testing and work closely with patients to develop customized treatment plans involving bioidentical hormones, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations. Our goal is to help patients find relief from symptoms and reduce future health risks related to hormone deficiency. Contact us today to schedule a consultation - our caring medical team is here to listen and help you rebalance your hormones for better health!