Low Oestrogen Levels? Don’t Worry

Oestrogen, a hormone commonly associated with the female body, plays a crucial role in female health. It is responsible for the female sexual development during puberty. It controls the growth of the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy and is also involved in cholesterol and bone metabolism. This is why low oestrogen is a serious problem.

What is the meaning of low oestrogen?
The oestrogen hormone is produced in the ovaries, and anything that affects the ovaries causes a deficiency in the oestrogen levels.

There are several causes of low oestrogen levels –

• Natural: Main natural cause of low oestrogen is menopause. Premenopausal women can also suffer from it.
• Induced: These are those such as hysterectomies and radiation treatments
• Special condition: Sometimes, low oestrogen is the result of special conditions such as anorexia, genetic diseases, thyroid problems and inadequate body fat.

What are the symptoms of low oestrogen levels?
Girls who haven’t yet reached puberty or women approaching menopause are at a higher risk of low oestrogen. However, women of all ages can experience this condition.

• Mood swings
• Depression
• Headaches (or even migraines)
• Fatigue
• Issues with concentration and focus
• Irregular or even absent periods
• Urinary tract infections
• Painful sex (due to the absence of vaginal lubrication)
• Weak bones or frequent fractures (as oestrogen works in conjunction with calcium and vitamin D, and its deficiency can mean a decrease in bone density)

How do you increase these oestrogen levels?

• Get your levels checked – The first and foremost thing you need to do is visit a doctor and get your oestrogen levels checked.
• Quit Smoking - Smoking can have detrimental effects on the endocrine system, and this can limit your body’s ability to produce estrogen.
• Make changes in your diet – Eat HEALTHY!! Consume foods that contain phytoestrogens – soy products like tofu, soy nuts, which mimic the effects of estrogen. Other foods that contain phytoestrogens include peas, lima beans, cranberries, apricots, and prunes, broccoli, cauliflower, flax seeds, and whole grains. Also, cut down on your sugar intake as it can lead to hormonal imbalances in the body
• Try gaining required amount of weight - In case you are underweight, that is. Being underweight can hinder your body’s ability to produce estrogen. Returning to a healthy weight can improve your estrogen levels.
• Consume Herbal Teas - Several herbal teas were found to enhance the estrogen levels. Simply steep the herbs in hot water for about 5 minutes and then drink the tea. Black and green teas contain phytoestrogens and can improve estrogen levels in your body.

By: Ishita Lamba