Estrogen deficiency occurs when the body does not produce adequate amounts of the hormone estrogen. This typically happens during perimenopause, menopause, or in women who have undergone surgical removal of the ovaries.
Some key symptoms of estrogen deficiency include:
Other long term risks include an increased chance of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Fortunately, the symptoms of estrogen deficiency can often be effectively managed through hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This involves taking supplemental estrogen and often a progestogen as well.
Some key benefits of HRT include:
When considering HRT, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits based on your individual health profile and family history. Many providers now favor transdermal options (gels or patches) over oral preparations.
The dosage and duration of treatment can be tailored to meet each woman's needs. Most experts recommend using the lowest effective HRT dose for the shortest duration needed to manage symptoms.
Estrogen deficiency can significantly disrupt a woman's quality of life. Thankfully there are options like bioidentical hormones and lifestyle changes that can help mitigate bothersome symptoms and long term health risks. Every woman deserves to feel her best through midlife and beyond.