Estrogen dominance occurs when a woman has abnormal levels of estrogen relative to progesterone. This hormonal imbalance can lead to various unpleasant symptoms. Some key things to know:
What causes estrogen dominance?
- Excessive environmental estrogen exposure - substances like pesticides, plastics, cosmetics, and more contain estrogen-mimicking compounds that can disrupt hormonal balance when overexposed
- Impaired liver function - the liver helps metabolize and remove excess estrogen so dysfunction allows more estrogen accumulation
- Excess body fat - fat cells produce estrone, an estrogen, so higher body fat elevates estrogen
- Chronic stress - leads to increased cortisol and inflammation which impairs progesterone production
- Perimenopause and menopause - fluctuating and declining progesterone unopposed by estrogen
Signs and symptoms
Many women with
estrogen dominance complain of:
- Weight gain - especially around the hips and thighs
- Bloating and water retention
- Breast swelling and tenderness
- Mood changes - anxiety, irritability, depression
- Headaches and migraines
- Sleep disruption - insomnia or excessive sleepiness
- Fatigue - low energy and stamina
- Brain fog - difficulty concentrating
- Low libido - reduced sex drive
The unpleasantness extends beyond just symptoms too. Over time, prolonged
estrogen dominance creates an increased risk for serious health conditions like infertility,
fibroids,
endometriosis, and certain cancers.
What to do
If you suspect
estrogen dominance, get your hormone levels tested. This can identify imbalances. Once confirmed, target rebalancing hormones naturally first through lifestyle changes like eating an anti-inflammatory diet, exercising regularly, minimizing toxin exposures, and managing stress. Herbs and nutraceuticals like DIM and Maca can help too. For moderate-severe cases,
bioidentical hormone therapy including micronized progesterone can directly correct the imbalance under a doctor’s supervision.
We offer complete
estrogen dominance solutions at
Vitality Balance Clinic clinic. Our integrative approach combines testing to pinpoint your hormonal dysfunction, customized treatment plans, nutrition and supplement recommendations, stress reduction techniques - all tailored to your unique needs. We partner with you to restore hormone health, resolve uncomfortable symptoms, and reduce future disease risk. Contact us today for a consultation. Let us help you regain your vitality!