What Happens When Your Estrogen Levels Are Too High?
Estrogen is a vital hormone for both women and men, with important functions in regulating sexual development and reproductive systems. When estrogen levels become unbalanced, it can lead to various health issues. Here are the 15 signs that your estrogen levels are too high and what you can do about it:
Estrogen’s Role in Women’s and Men’s Bodies
Estrogen is produced in the ovaries and the testes, with biological women typically having higher levels. It plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and influencing sexual development. Men also rely on estrogen for sexual function.
Typical Estrogen Levels
Throughout different life stages, typical estrogen levels can range from undetectable to several hundred picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). Men’s levels of estrogen are typically lower than women’s, but can still vary depending on factors such as age and overall health.
Causes of Estrogen Imbalance
Several factors can disrupt the balance of estrogen levels within the body, including hormone replacement therapy, in vitro fertilization procedures, and lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of exercise.
15 Signs of Excess Estrogen
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Weight gain
- Menstrual irregularities
- Fibrocystic lumps in breasts
- Fibroids in the uterus
- Fatigue
- Decreased sex drive
- Mood changes
- Infertility
- Gynecomastia
- Erectile dysfunction
- Irritability
- Hair loss
- Increased risk of blood clots
Balancing Estrogen Levels
If you suspect you have high estrogen levels, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. However, there are several measures you can take to help balance your estrogen levels, including dietary changes, regular exercise, stress management, weight management, and limiting exposure to environmental estrogen-mimicking compounds.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining balanced estrogen levels is essential for both women and men to promote overall health and well-being. By understanding the signs of excess estrogen and taking proactive steps to address imbalances through lifestyle changes and medical interventions, you can achieve optimal hormonal balance.
