Estrogen deficiency - Vitality Health Center

What is estrogen deficiency?

Estrogen deficiency occurs when estrogen levels in the body become too low. This usually happens during perimenopause and menopause in women, but it can also occur at other times.

Some key signs and symptoms of low estrogen levels include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
• Difficulty sleeping
• Mood changes like irritability or depression
• Fatigue
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Decreased bone density (osteoporosis risk)

Estrogen helps regulate many bodily processes, so having too little can cause problems. Low estrogen levels contribute to:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Accelerated skin aging
• Weight gain
• Bladder issues
• Memory and cognition problems

There are a few main causes of estrogen deficiency:

• Menopause - Estrogen levels naturally decline as women approach menopause. The ovaries gradually produce less estrogen leading up to and after menopause.
• Surgical menopause - Removal of both ovaries causes a sudden drop in estrogen production. This induces menopause regardless of age.
• Low-estrogen states - Medical conditions like premature ovarian failure, pituitary tumor, or athletic amenorrhea can also lead to deficiency.
• Medications - Drugs that block estrogen production or activity can also induce a deficiency.

If you're experiencing unpleasant perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can check your hormone levels and help determine if you have an estrogen deficiency. There are treatment options like hormone therapy that could help relieve symptoms and reduce long-term health risks associated with low estrogen levels after menopause. Staying active, managing stress, and eating a nutrient-rich diet may also help some women transition through "the change" more smoothly.