Estrogen Decline After Menopause

Menopause ends the monthly cycle, but it can bring new symptoms as hormone levels change.

Estrogen is one of the hormones that changes during menopause and can contribute to these symptoms.

What is menopause, and why does it happen?

Menopause is a phase of life in which you no longer get your monthly period. It is a natural component of the aging process and signifies the end of your reproductive years. Menopause generally arrives between the ages of 40 and 50.

As the ovaries slow down, estrogen levels fall. Periods may become irregular and then stop. These hormone changes can also cause physical symptoms.

What are the hormonal changes during menopause?

During menopause, the ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone. The ovaries also produce testosterone. Estrogen and progesterone help regulate menstruation and affect other parts of the body.

Estrogen and its Role

Estrogen is a sex hormone made mainly by the ovaries. It affects reproductive development, the menstrual cycle, bones and other tissues.

Estrogen supports breast development, menstrual cycles, metabolism and bone health. It also helps the body absorb and retain calcium and may support cardiovascular health.

What Happens When Estrogen Declines?

Common symptoms of low estrogen include hot flashes, flushing, night sweats and mood changes. You may feel depressed, worried or irritable.

Night sweats and hormone changes can disrupt sleep, which can worsen fatigue and mood.

Low estrogen can thin skin and urinary and vaginal tissues. This may contribute to wrinkles, bladder infections, vaginal dryness and painful intercourse.

Osteoporosis is one of the most severe health concerns associated with decreased estrogen levels. Estrogen promotes bone health by limiting calcium loss. Calcium deficiency can raise the risk of fractures in the spine, hips, leg, and arm bones.

Furthermore, estrogen produced by the body appears to protect against heart disease. It may accomplish this by increasing the amount of HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood. Hence, the risk of heart disease skyrockets after menopause.

How to Deal with Low Estrogen?

Changes in lifestyle and a balanced diet may help you manage symptoms. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) may relieve some menopausal symptoms associated with low hormone levels and may help protect bone in some women. Discuss whether it is appropriate with a doctor.

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