Estrogen levels can be subject to many internal and external factors. As women approach menopause, estrogen production begins to decline as the ovaries produce less. However, estrogen levels can fluctuate and drop at any age due to physical conditions or lifestyle issues like excessive dieting and exercise.
At Memorial Women’s Specialists, our team of OB/GYN doctors and specialists offer a full range of gynecology services, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and menopause treatment at our clinic in Houston, Texas.
5 signs of low estrogen levels
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of low estrogen levels include:
If you notice changes to your period or start experiencing new symptoms that persist for more than a week or two, contact us to schedule an appointment.
What causes low estrogen?
Estrogen (which is produced by the ovaries) levels normally decline as women age and enter perimenopause (the years leading up to the end of the reproductive cycle known as menopause, which is typically a year after the last menstrual period).
Other factors that can interfere with and cause estrogen production to drop (in women of all ages) include:
- Eating disorders like anorexia or extreme dieting
- Issues with the pituitary gland or other hormone imbalances
- Extreme physical activity and exercise
- PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
- Breastfeeding
- Giving birth
- Miscarriage
- Medical/family history
Estrogen and hormone levels can be detected through a blood test to measure your current levels and determine if they’re too low and causing your symptoms.
How is low estrogen treated?
If your estrogen levels are too low and causing symptoms, there are several treatment options available depending on your age, medical history, health, and the underlying cause.
For example, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is available to help manage and alleviate the most common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.
Prenatal care is especially important throughout pregnancy, which includes monitoring and maintaining healthy hormone levels.
We also offer treatment for gynecological problems that can affect or be related to your hormone levels such as fibroids and endometriosis.
In addition to medication, lifestyle factors and getting enough exercise without overdoing it are also key to maintaining healthy and balanced estrogen and other hormone levels.
The best way to stay on top of your hormones and reproductive health is to schedule regular well-woman exams every year. In addition to early detection of any potential health issues, they allow our team to get to know you and understand your medical history. We can also answer any questions or concerns you may have about everything from fertility to menopause.
For more information about hormone replacement therapy and the women’s health services available at our clinic in Houston, contact us today to schedule an appointment.