First, before discussing estrogen dominance, let’s talk about the importance of estrogen.

Estrogen is a hormone produced by the ovaries and plays an important role in female reproductive health. It is responsible for developing female secondary sex characteristics, such as breasts and hips, and regulating the menstrual cycle. 

The body produces three types of estrogen: estradiol, estrone, and estriol. Estradiol is the most active form of estrogen and is responsible for developing secondary sexual characteristics such as breasts, hips, and fertility. Estrone, made from fat tissue, is the most abundant form of estrogen in postmenopausal women and plays a role in maintaining bone density. Estriol is the least active form of estrogen and is thought to provide some protection against breast cancer. Estrogen also has important non-reproductive functions, such as regulating cholesterol levels and protecting against heart disease. Overall, estrogen is essential for both reproductive and non-reproductive health in women.

 

What is Estrogen Dominance?

Estrogen dominance is a condition that can occur in menopausal women. It is caused by an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone in the body, which can lead to various symptoms.  Estrogen dominance occurs during menopause when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs and her progesterone levels decline. However, even though her ovaries are no longer making progesterone, her body can still make estrogen from fat tissue and adrenal glands. To make matter worse, estrogen dominance can also be caused by high levels of other estrogen-like hormones, such as those found in birth control pills or menopausal hormone therapy. This can create an imbalance in a woman’s hormone levels, with too much estrogen relative to progesterone.

While estrogen dominance is not always dangerous, it can cause some major health problems if left untreated. This article will discuss estrogen dominance, its associated symptoms, its causes, and how to treat it.

What are estrogen dominance symptoms?

As women approach menopause, their bodies begin to produce fewer hormones. This can lead to a condition called estrogen dominance, in which the body has too much estrogen relative to other hormones. Estrogen dominance can cause a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, and mood swings. Keep an eye on your weight. Estrogen can cause weight gain, particularly around the hips and thighs. You might also notice that your hair is thinning or that you have more body hair than usual. You might also have irregular periods or trouble sleeping.

 

Estrogen dominance can also increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as breast cancer and osteoporosis. Some lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and regular exercise, can help alleviate estrogen dominance symptoms. In cases where symptoms are severe, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended. Estrogen dominance is a complex condition that can significantly impact a woman’s health. However, with proper treatment and support, many women can manage their symptoms and enjoy a good quality of life.

1. Weight Gain and Estrogen Dominance

One of the most common symptoms of estrogen dominance is weight gain. This is because estrogen can cause the body to store more fat than it would in a state of balance. Additionally, estrogen can also lead to water retention, which can further contribute to weight gain.

2. Fatigue and Estrogen Dominance

Fatigue is another common symptom of estrogen dominance. This may be due to the fact that estrogen can interfere with thyroid function, leading to an overall decrease in energy levels. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to insomnia, which can further contribute to fatigue during the day.

3. Brain Fog and Estrogen Dominance

Brain fog is another common symptom of estrogen dominance. This may be due to the fact that estrogen can interfere with neurotransmitter function, leading to problems with focus and concentration. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to anxiety and depression, both of which can contribute to brain fog.

4. Mood Swings and Estrogen Dominance

Mood swings are another common symptom of estrogen dominance. This may be due to the fact that estrogen can interfere with neurotransmitter function, leading to changes in mood and emotions. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to PMS (premenstrual syndrome), which can further contribute to mood swings prior to menstruation.

5. Bloating and Estrogen Dominance

Bloating is another common symptom of estrogen dominance. This may be due to the fact that estrogen can cause water retention, leading to a feeling of bloating and fullness. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to constipation, which can further contribute to bloating and discomfort.

6. Breast Tenderness and Estrogen Dominance

Breast tenderness is another common symptom of estrogen dominance. This may be due to the fact that estrogen stimulates the growth of breast tissue, leading to tenderness and soreness. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to fibrocystic breast changes, which can further contribute to tenderness and discomfort.

7. Irregular Periods and Estrogen Dominance

Irregular periods are another common symptom of estrogen dominance. This may be due to the fact that estrogen can interfere with ovulation and the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular bleeding patterns or missed periods. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to heavy bleeding, which can further contribute to an irregular cycle.

8. Fibroids and Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance is thought to be a primary cause of fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths that can form inside the womb. It is believed that estrogen stimulates the growth of fibroids, leading to pain and heavy bleeding during menstruation. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to an increase in the size of existing fibroids, which can further contribute to uncomfortable symptoms.

9. Uterine Cancer and Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance can also increase the risk of developing uterine cancer. This is because estrogen stimulates the growth of cells in the uterus, which can lead to abnormal cell growth and eventually cancer. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to endometrial hyperplasia, which can further contribute to an increased risk of developing uterine cancer.

10. Breast Cancer and Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance can also increase the risk of developing breast cancer. This is because estrogen stimulates the growth of cells in the breast, which can lead to abnormal cell growth and eventually cancer. Additionally, estrogen dominance can also lead to an increased risk of developing benign breast diseases, such as fibrocystic changes, which can further contribute to an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

11. Osteoporosis and Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance may also increase the risk for osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle and weak due to low bone density. This is because estrogen helps to maintain healthy bones by promoting their formation and increasing their mineral content. Additionally, estrogen dominance can lead to decreased levels of calcium and other minerals, which can further contribute to an increased risk of developing osteoporosis.

What causes estrogen dominance in menopause?

Estrogen dominance is a condition that can occur during menopause when progesterone levels decline while estrogen levels remain the same or increase. While the exact cause of estrogen dominance is unknown, it is thought to be linked to a decline in progesterone levels. Progesterone is a hormone that helps to balance estrogen levels in the body. When levels of progesterone decline, estrogen can become dominant, leading to the symptoms of menopause. Estrogen dominance is also thought to be linked to increased body fat. Fat cells produce estrogen, and we tend to accumulate more body fat as we age. This can lead to higher levels of estrogen in the body and thus increased symptoms of menopause. Estrogen dominance is complex, and many factors may contribute to its development. If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause, speak with your holistic doctor about ways to manage estrogen dominance.

 

What steps can you take to reduce your risk of estrogen dominance?

There are ways to manage estrogen dominance and reduce its symptoms. While estrogen dominance is a natural part of the aging process, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. First, eat a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Second, exercise regularly. Physical activity helps to regulate hormone levels and reduce stress. Third, maintain a healthy weight and body mass index. Fourth,  avoid synthetic chemicals, such as those in personal care products and cleaning supplies. These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system and contribute to estrogen dominance. Finally, supplement with herbs such as Black Cohosh or Red Clover. Following these simple steps can minimize your risk of estrogen dominance and help you enjoy a healthy menopausal transition. 

How to treat estrogen dominance with progesterone hormone therapy

There are several ways to treat estrogen dominance. One option is hormone therapy, which can help to balance estrogen levels. Hormone replacement with progesterone helps restore the balance between progesterone and estrogen and relieves symptoms of estrogen dominance. Weight loss which reduces fat tissue can help reduce estrogen dominance.

Foods to avoid if you have estrogen dominance

One of the most important things is to watch your diet. Some foods can promote estrogen dominance, while others can help to alleviate it. Avoid conventional meat and dairy products since they may contain hormones like estrogen and growth hormone. Eat organic and hormone-free meats and dairy problems.

You should eat foods that can help relieve symptoms of estrogen dominance. Soy products and nuts contain high levels of phytoestrogens, which are weaker estrogens than those made by your body fat and can block the effect of estrogen dominance. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that help to detoxify the body and reduce estrogen levels. Eating foods high in fiber can help eliminate estrogen in your stool and lower bad estrogen levels. So if you’re struggling with estrogen dominance, load up on cruciferous veggies, phytoestrogens, and fiber.

Herbal remedies for treating estrogen dominance

While there are conventional medical treatments for estrogen dominance, many women prefer to treat the condition with herbal remedies. Some of the most popular herbs for treating estrogen dominance include black cohosh, Dong Quai, chaste berry, and ginseng. Black cohosh is a native North American herb used for centuries to treat menstrual irregularities. Dong Quai is a Chinese herb that is thought to help regulate hormone levels. Chasteberry is an herb that has been used since medieval times to treat fertility issues and hormone-related symptoms. Ginseng has been shown to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue. When taken together, these herbs can provide significant relief from the symptoms of estrogen dominance.

Are there any other ways to deal with estrogen dominance in menopause that hasn’t been mentioned here?

While estrogen dominance is a common problem during menopause, there are a number of ways to address it. In addition to lifestyle changes, hormone replacement, and supplements, some women find relief with other treatments like acupuncture and acupressure.  Weight loss can also reduce estrogen levels and symptoms of estrogen dominance. If you are overweight, consider starting a medical weight loss program. 

As with any menopausal symptom, it’s important to speak with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you. With a little trial and error, you’re likely to find a method that works well for you.

 

In conclusion, estrogen dominance can cause a wide variety of symptoms, which can be frustrating and debilitating. While there are many ways to treat estrogen dominance, combining lifestyle changes with supplements, herbs, and progesterone hormone replacement is the best approach. This will help you find the right combination of treatments that work for you. With a little effort, you can overcome estrogen dominance and enjoy a healthy menopausal transition.