Estrogen
Estrogen is a hormone that is one of the key players in women’s reproductive systems. It’s produced in the ovaries, adrenal glands and fat tissues.
Types of Estrogen
E1 (Estrone)
This is a weak form of estrogen that can’t be converted into other types of estrogen. It’s most prevalent in women after menopause.
E2 (Estradiol)
This is produced in both men and women. It’s the most common type in women during their reproductive years because it’s produced from developing ovarian follicles It’s responsible for female characteristics, reproductive functioning and bone health.
Low levels result in weight gain and cardiovascular disease. Excess levels can result in acne, low sex drive, depression and osteoporosis. Excessive levels also increase risk for breast and uterine cancer.
E3 (Estriol)
This is the dominant estrogen that’s produced by the placenta during pregnancy because it helps the uterus grow and prepares for delivery.
The Function of Estrogen
Promotes the formation of breast tissue and stops the flow of milk when a breastfeeding mom weans.
Stimulates the ovaries to grow an egg follicle
Maintains the lining of the uterus and regulates uterine mucus secretions
Maintains the thickness of the vaginal wall and promotes lubrication
Estrogen Imbalances Cause
In women
- PMS symptoms
- Menstrual irregularities
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Mood swings, depression or anxiety
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Dry skin
- Fibrous breasts
- Low sex drive
- Vaginal dryness & atrophy
In men
- Low levels can cause: excess belly fat and low sex drive
- High levels can cause: infertility, erectile dysfunction and breast development (called gynecomastia)
If you’d like to balance your estrogen levels, CONTACT ME HERE and we can discuss whether it’s necessary for you and how we can test your hormones levels for us to have a more directed treatment summary.
What’s a discovery call/meeting? It’s where we get to know each other better to ensure that I’m the right practitioner for you and that you have the opportunity to ask your questions about Naturopathic Medicine before we move forward with an initial Naturopathic consultation.
Here are a few more posts on hormones and women’s health that you might also be interested in:
- Hormone Testing or Women’s Health
- What To Do If You’re ALWAYS Tired
- What’s a Menstrual Cup?
- Vitamin D and Menstrual Cramps
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Birth Control Does What Else?!?
- Endometriosis & Estrogen Dominance
- Trying to get pregnant? Test your ferritin levels!
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