What is estrogen deficiency?
Estrogen deficiency, also known as hypoestrogenism, occurs when estrogen levels in the body are lower than normal. Estrogen is an important hormone that regulates many bodily functions in women, so a deficiency can lead to various symptoms and health issues.
Some key points about estrogen deficiency:
- It most commonly affects women during perimenopause and menopause as ovarian estrogen production declines, but it can occur at any age due to medical conditions or treatments.
- Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, painful sexual intercourse, urinary issues, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and joint pain.
- Long-term estrogen deficiency is associated with risks like osteoporosis and heart disease since estrogen plays a role in bone and cardiovascular health.
- Causes include primary ovarian insufficiency, pituitary issues, premature ovarian failure, surgical removal of ovaries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, severe weight loss, and excessive exercise.
- Doctors can test estrogen levels via blood or saliva tests to diagnose a deficiency. They may recommend estrogen therapy, lifestyle changes, or addressing underlying medical issues.
Some key lifestyle changes that can help manage estrogen deficiency symptoms naturally include:
- Eating a nutritious, phytoestrogen-rich diet with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes
- Exercising regularly to promote circulation and manage weight
- Practicing stress-relieving activities like yoga and meditation
- Getting enough high-quality sleep each night
In summary, estrogen deficiency occurs when the body lacks sufficient estrogen hormone levels to maintain women's health and quality of life. Diagnosing and addressing this common issue is important to manage bothersome symptoms and reduce long-term health risks. For personalized guidance, consult with the professionals at Wellspring Medical.