How Low Estrogen Affects Your Hormonal Balance?

Estrogen plays a central role in maintaining hormonal balance in both women and men. In women, estrogen is produced primarily by the ovaries and is key to regulating the menstrual cycle, fertility, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics, like breast tissue. In men, estrogen is produced in smaller amounts and is involved in bone health and sperm production.

Estrogen influences several important functions, such as bone density, helping maintain strong bones by preventing excessive bone loss. It also supports metabolism, regulating fat distribution in the body. Furthermore, estrogen has a protective effect on cardiovascular health by helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels and promoting good circulation.

According to our team at Triad Internal Medicine, estrogen is essential for overall health, and maintaining balanced estrogen levels is crucial for well-being. An imbalance in estrogen, whether too high or too low, can lead to various health issues, including bone problems, cardiovascular concerns, and mood fluctuations.

Low estrogen levels can cause a range of symptoms that affect both physical and emotional health. Our team at Triad Internal Medicine notes that these symptoms are particularly common during perimenopause and menopause but can also occur due to other factors such as certain medical conditions or medications.

Common symptoms of low estrogen include hot flashes, where individuals experience sudden heat and sweating, particularly at night. Women may also experience irregular periods or a complete stop in menstruation. Vaginal dryness is another symptom, leading to discomfort during sexual activity. Additionally, low estrogen can contribute to fatigue, sleep disturbances, and decreased libido.

Low estrogen can also affect mental clarity, causing memory issues, and leading to symptoms of anxiety or mood swings. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. We work with patients to evaluate these symptoms and determine the best course of action.

Low estrogen levels can significantly affect mood and mental health due to estrogen’s influence on brain chemistry, particularly in the regulation of serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood and happiness. According to our team at Triad Internal Medicine, low estrogen levels can cause symptoms of irritability, anxiety, and depression.

As estrogen declines, especially during menopause, many women report experiencing mood swings and increased sensitivity. Estrogen also has a role in cognitive function, and low levels can lead to difficulty concentrating and brain fog. This combination of physical and emotional changes can make daily life more challenging.

Addressing estrogen imbalances through hormone therapy or other treatments can help manage these emotional and mental health challenges. Dr. Lee encourages a holistic approach that includes dietary adjustments, stress management techniques, and hormonal treatment when necessary to help stabilize mood and mental well-being.

Low estrogen can negatively impact cardiovascular health, especially in postmenopausal women. Our team explains that estrogen helps protect the heart and blood vessels by promoting healthy cholesterol levels and supporting blood vessel flexibility. As estrogen levels decline, women are at an increased risk for high blood pressure, elevated LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), and a reduced ability to clear plaque from arteries, all of which contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

Estrogen’s cardiovascular protective effects are most evident during a woman’s reproductive years. When estrogen declines, especially after menopause, women experience an increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease. We advise regular cardiovascular screenings for women, particularly as they enter menopause, to monitor and manage these risks effectively.

Keung Lee, MD, at Triad Internal Medicine, explains that estrogen is a vital hormone that helps regulate a variety of systems in the body. Estrogen is especially important for women, where it regulates menstrual cycles, supports bone health, and protects cardiovascular health. When estrogen levels become low, particularly during menopause, Dr. Lee explains that this can lead to several imbalances in the body, affecting both physical and mental health.

Low estrogen can result in several symptoms, including irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and mood swings. These hormonal imbalances can also increase the risk of osteoporosis (bone thinning) and cardiovascular disease. Dr. Lee stresses that addressing these issues through personalized care is key to restoring hormonal balance. Treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT), lifestyle adjustments, and regular check-ups can help manage these symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term health issues.

At Triad Internal Medicine, Dr. Lee uses holistic, evidence-based approaches to ensure patients receive the right treatment to maintain optimal hormonal health and prevent complications associated with low estrogen. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at Dublin Square and Mack Road in Asheboro, NC. We serve patients from Asheboro NC, Redding Hills NC, Greensboro NC, Randleman NC, Sophia NC, Grays Chapel NC, and surrounding areas.