Oestrogen (estrogen) imbalance in Women

 

Oestrogen (estrogen in Australia) is made by the woman’s ovaries and adrenals. It is also made by adipose tissue (fat cells).

There are 3 types of oestrogen.

Oestrone (E1) increases after menopause and accounts for 10-20% of oestrogen levels.

Oestradiol (E2) readily converts to E1, and is the most potent of the 3 oestrogens and is mainly produced by the ovaries.When the levels of E2 drop during menopause – flushes and night sweats can occur.

Oestriol (E3) is produced mainly throughout pregnancy. A topical cream derivative is used in post menopausal ladies for vaginal shrinkage (and painful intercourse) and urinary incontinence.

Normal oestrogen levels are responsible for the following:

- development of secondary sexual characteristics (eg breasts, widening of the hips, pubic hair).

- promotes the growth of the endometrial lining and breast tissue

- is necessary for development of longer bones

- improves memory

- increases fat stores

- protects against heart disease

- can be of assistance during menopause

Excessive Oestrogen  is also called Oestrogen Dominance.

In this very common hormone imbalance, women will feel some (not necessarily all) of the following:

- mood swings (including anxiety and depression)

- cellulite and fat

- headaches and migraines

- heavy or longer periods

- endometriosis or fibroids

- breast , ovarian and endometrial cancers

- pimples

- irritability, low energy and insomnia

The best way to check is to have a saliva hormone test. You can order these from the www.byebyebridget.com site or from your health care (make sure they specialist in hormone treatments and do saliva tests).