Getting your estrogen levels tested can provide valuable insight into your overall health, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms that you can’t quite pinpoint the cause of. Estrogen, a crucial hormone that includes estrone, estradiol, and estriol, plays a vital role in regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, supporting reproductive health, and influencing mood. It also impacts the health of your heart, metabolism, and reproductive organs.
Throughout your life, estrogen levels naturally fluctuate, starting low at birth, increasing during puberty, and decreasing after menopause. Estrogen levels also change during the menstrual cycle, peaking during ovulation. Generally, estradiol levels between 30 to 400 pg/mL are considered normal during reproductive years. High estrogen is defined as levels exceeding the normal range for a specific age and menstrual phase, often associated with symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, weight gain, headaches, fatigue, decreased sex drive, hair loss, and difficulty concentrating.
Various factors can contribute to high estrogen levels, including pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), certain medications, weight, environmental factors like exposure to estrogen-like chemicals, alcohol consumption, and chronic stress. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management techniques, cutting back on alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular exercise, can help manage conditions related to high estrogen. In some cases, medication like aromatase inhibitors or hormone blockers may be prescribed.
While estrogen testing is not typically necessary for healthy women, those experiencing specific symptoms may benefit from getting their hormone levels tested. A blood test can measure levels of estradiol, estrone, and estriol, with coverage depending on insurance plans. If high estrogen levels are discovered, a reproductive endocrinologist can help determine the root cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Regular communication with your doctor is key in monitoring symptoms, testing estrogen levels when necessary, and adjusting treatment plans accordingly. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to develop a tailored approach to managing conditions related to high estrogen. Remember that estrogen levels fluctuate naturally, but if you have concerns or persistent symptoms, discussing testing options and lifestyle changes with your doctor is a proactive step towards maintaining your overall health and well-being.
