What is Estrogen Deficiency?
Estrogen deficiency occurs when estrogen levels in the body become too low. This can happen for various reasons:
Causes
- Natural drop in estrogen during perimenopause and menopause as the ovaries produce less estrogen
- Removal of the ovaries through surgery like oophorectomy
- Certain medical conditions affecting estrogen production
- Some cancer treatments
Symptoms
Low estrogen levels can cause various symptoms, including:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes like irritability and depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Joint pain
- Reduced bone density leading to osteoporosis
The type and severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some people experience mild issues while others develop more disruptive symptoms affecting their quality of life.
Risks
If left untreated, long-term estrogen deficiency can increase the risk for:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Neurocognitive issues like dementia
- Osteoporosis and bone fractures
However, the risks tend to be lower in younger women and higher in older women, especially after menopause.
Treatment
- Hormone therapy with estrogen, often combined with progestin
- Vaginal estrogen for genitourinary symptoms
- Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, calcium and vitamin D intake
- Managing other existing conditions contributing to deficiency
The benefits and risks of treatment should be carefully weighed. Treatment is very individualized based on the patient's health profile and preferences. Doctors at Renew Wellness follow clinical guidelines to determine the best course.
This provides an overview of estrogen deficiency in plain language. Let us know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!