Our body produces various different hormones, each of which has an important role to play. Estrogen is one such hormone that is predominantly found in females. Although men produce it as well, the levels are significantly low. The hormone plays a role in female reproduction and is responsible for the development of sexual features in girls when they hit puberty. Other important functions of estrogen, as listed by the experts from the best IVF centre in Noida, are:
It is responsible for the development of the uterine lining during menstruation and pregnancy.
It is responsible for the development of breasts in teenagers and pregnant women
Estrogen is the most important pregnancy hormone as it helps to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Apart from its role in fertility, estrogen also plays a significant role in bone metabolism, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and regulating glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Disrupted estrogen levels can also lead to unhealthy weight gain.
What causes the drop in your estrogen levels?
Experts from the top IVF clinic in Noida suggest that the estrogen levels are likely to be on the lower side in girls who have not hit puberty yet, Or women who are about to hit menopause. In the case of young women, who have already hit puberty, the decline in oestrogen levels could be a result of any of the following:
- Excessive exertion caused by indulgence in rigorous activities
- Eating disorders, like anorexia, caused by stress and anxiety
- Dysfunctional pituitary gland
- Premature ovarian failure caused by genetic or autoimmune conditions
- Underlying ailments like Turner syndrome or chronic kidney disease.
If you are in your 40s, the decline in estrogen levels could be an indication of menopause. This is commonly referred to as perimenopause. As per the experts from the best ICSI centre in Noida, women do not stop producing oestrogen during perimenopause however the rate of production slows down significantly with time.
How to know if your estrogen levels are falling?
As estrogen plays a vital role in reproduction, its normal levels are vital for a healthy pregnancy. As such it is very important to keep a track of your estrogen levels and consult a doctor if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain during sex owing to the lack of vaginal lubrication
- Increased susceptibility to urinary tract infections
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Mood swings and depression
- Hot flashes and fatigue
- Frequent and persistent headaches
A decrease in estrogen level can also make you more vulnerable to bone fractures as it is likely to affect your bone density. The problem is left untreated for long, it can lead to fertility challenges as well.
Estrogen levels can be easily assessed by conducting a physical exam and testing the patient’s FSH levels, which time for follicle-stimulating hormone.
Low estrogen levels can be treated with proper hormonal treatment. Doctors usually recommend estrogen therapy to women lying in the age group of 25 to 50 years and those approaching menopause are recommended HRT (hormone replacement therapy).
