Estrogen deficiency - Vitality Hormone Center

What is estrogen deficiency?

Estrogen deficiency occurs when estrogen levels in the body become too low. This can happen for various reasons:

Causes

• Natural drop in estrogen during perimenopause and menopause. Estrogen levels start declining 1-2 years before menopause as the ovaries produce less estrogen.
• Surgical menopause. Removal of both ovaries causes an abrupt drop in estrogen levels.
• Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). This condition causes estrogen deficiency in women under 40. It happens when the ovaries stop working properly due to genetic factors, autoimmune disease, or certain treatments like chemotherapy.
• Hypothalamic amenorrhea. This refers to a lack of menstrual periods due to low body weight, excess exercise, or stress. These factors disrupt signals between the hypothalamus and ovaries, leading to low estrogen.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of low estrogen levels are:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood changes like irritability, anxiety, depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue
• Reduced sex drive
• Bone loss
• Heart palpitations

The severity of symptoms varies between individuals. The symptoms are generally more severe with surgical menopause compared to natural menopause.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood tests help diagnose estrogen deficiency by measuring levels of estrogen and other hormones. Bone density scans may be done to assess bone loss.

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent long-term complications like osteoporosis. It includes:

• Estrogen therapy with estrogen pills, skin patches, gels, or vaginal rings
• Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants
• Lifestyle changes like eating nutritious foods, exercising, and reducing stress
• Medications for hot flashes, sleep issues, bone loss, etc.

The treatment plan is tailored to meet individual needs and health status. Close medical supervision is important while on hormone therapy. Consult the healthcare providers at Vitality Hormone Center for personalized care and guidance.