Feeling 'Off'? Estrogen Imbalance May Be The Cause; Here's What Can Help

Estrogen, or the "female hormone," plays an important role in reproductive health. This article highlights the role of estrogen in a woman’s fertility. Sex hormones are responsible for the development and function of sex organs. The main sex hormone in females is estrogen. It is essential for maintaining female bodily functions, which is why it is often called the female hormone. Men also produce estrogen, but in much smaller amounts.

Functions of estrogen in women

Estrogen is needed for a woman’s body and is responsible for managing several important functions, including:

• Sexual development: Estrogen supports the growth and development of female reproductive organs like the uterus and vagina. It also aids in breast development and the appearance of pubic hair during puberty, marking the onset of sexual maturity in females.

• Menstrual cycle regulation: Every month, estrogen helps build up the lining of the uterus, creating a suitable environment for a fertilized egg to implant and grow. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining sheds during the menstrual period. This hormone helps to regulate menstruation.

• Bone health: Estrogen is required for building and even maintaining strong bones. This hormone helps in preserving bone density and prevents bone loss as women become older.

• Heart protection: Before menopause, estrogen helps protect women from heart disease. It supports healthy blood vessels and regulates cholesterol levels in the body.

• Mood regulation: Estrogen influences mood by boosting the production of serotonin, a brain chemical that helps balance emotions and improve a woman’s mental well-being.

Impact of estrogen imbalance in women

When estrogen levels in a woman’s body are not balanced, it can lead to various health concerns and unwanted physical changes. Both high and low levels of estrogen can affect overall well-being in different ways.

Effects of high estrogen levels in women:

• Unexplained weight gain

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Heavy bleeding during periods

• Light spotting between periods

Effects of low estrogen levels in women:

• Difficulty conceiving (infertility)

• Irregular or missed periods

• Weak and brittle bones

• Pain or discomfort during intercourse

• Depression or low mood

• Hot flashes

• Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)

What is the remedy?

It is the need of the hour to take note of these symptoms and initiate timely intervention.

Treatment for estrogen imbalance in women usually consists of hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, or medications, depending on whether the levels are too high or too low. Doctors may recommend estrogen supplements, birth control pills, or changes in diet and exercise to help restore hormonal balance and lead a healthy life.

Because an imbalance in estrogen can lead to several health problems and even serious medical conditions, visit a fertility consultant if any symptoms or concerns related to this hormone arise. Early diagnosis and treatment can help one stay healthy. So, it is better to clear all the doubts with the help of an expert without any further delay.

Authored By Dr. Rashmi Agarwal, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Gurugram, Delhi NCR.