Originally published: 10.DEC.2020
Article updated: 04.JUNE.2024
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Conway
Our hormones are the chemical messengers that work to support many vital functions throughout our bodies. That’s why when levels shift, it can cause a whole host of symptoms, from shifts in weight to disruptions to sleep. In the case of estrogen dominance, which refers to an increased level of estrogen in comparison to progesterone levels, there are several signs and symptoms, including:
- Decreased sex drive
- Increased PMS symptoms
- Irregular periods
- Mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Bloating
- Hot flashes
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Insomnia
Read on for more insights into the symptoms of high estrogen and whether it might be time to consider testing your estrogen levels.
Related article: How to Naturally Decrease Estrogen Levels
At the time of writing, estrogen dominance is still a theory. So while we will use the term throughout the article, we will also refer to it as ‘high estrogen’ and/or ‘estrogen imbalance’.
- What causes high estrogen?
- 10 symptoms and signs of estrogen dominance
- How to know if you are estrogen dominant
What causes high estrogen?
For menstruating women, estrogen levels rise and fall in a specific pattern over the course of a monthly cycle. During a woman’s life, it is normal for the amount of estrogen we produce to change. For example, estrogen levels rise during puberty and fall during menopause. With that said, some specific factors can sometimes contribute to hormonal imbalance and may be associated with women, these include:
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Premature menopause: According to the NHS, premature menopause, or early menopause, occurs when a woman's period stops before the age of 45. This can sometimes occur naturally when the ovaries stop producing normal amounts of hormones, including estrogen.
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition that can affect the function of a woman's ovaries. While the exact cause is unknown, PCOS can result in irregular periods and a lot of other symptoms which are all related to the changes in hormone levels associated with this condition.
10 symptoms and signs of estrogen dominance
As previously mentioned, estrogen dominance is still only a theory. However, there are a handful of symptoms that are often associated with high estrogen levels in women.
#1 Decreased sex drive
While optimal levels of estrogen stimulate vaginal lubrication and increased sexual desire; higher estrogen levels may cause mood swings, worsened PMS symptoms, and fatigue - each of which naturally affects your libido. Estrogen levels can fluctuate during perimenopause and menopause causing these symptoms.
Related article: Can You Get Pregnant With High Estrogen Levels?
#2 Increased PMS symptoms
PMS is caused by the dropping of estrogen and progesterone just before your period. Overall higher levels of estrogen might be associated with worse PMS symptoms and some women or adolescents may be more sensitive to these fluctuations. These symptoms can include severe bloating, feeling especially emotional, and bad back pain in the days leading up to your period.
#3 Irregular periods
Women experiencing a fluctuation in estrogen levels are more likely to experience irregular periods. Mayo Clinic suggests that a significant change in your period may suggest that your hormone levels have shifted [1].
#4 Mood changes
Estrogen is associated with mood changes in women. Sudden changes in estrogen during your cycle may affect your mood causing symptoms of anxiety or depression.
#5 Difficulty concentrating
Headaches and difficulty concentrating have been linked to estrogen levels. It’s been found that more than half of women who experience migraines believe it to be related to their menstrual cycle [2].
#6 Bloating
Bloating is usually caused by water retention or disruption in the water-salt balance in females. An increase in estrogen levels and fluctuation of your hormones may cause water retention, which can cause bloating.
#7 Hot flashes
Hot flashes are one of the trademark symptoms of menopause. The cause of hot flashes is not fully understood, but we know that it is related to changes in the hormones progesterone and estrogen.
#8 Breast tenderness
During the menstrual cycle, tenderness in the breasts can often be attributed to the decreased volume of progesterone in relation to estrogen - this is generally a natural occurrence. With that said, recurring sensitivity in the breasts may also be attributed to higher levels of estrogen.
#9 Weight gain
A tell-tale sign that you may be having issues with your estrogen levels is weight gain - particularly around your middle.
This weight gain is most likely to take place during menopause which may be confusing for people to hear because both estrogen and progesterone are believed to drop during this period. What is often misunderstood is that progesterone drops more dramatically than estrogen which gradually leads to weight gain.
#10 Insomnia
Unsurprisingly, some of the above symptoms would keep you up at night. Though another reason that you may be struggling to fall asleep is the fact estrogen and progesterone are sleep-promoting hormones and too much estrogen may lead to sleep disruptions.
Low progesterone, in comparison to levels of estrogen, is also said to lead to feelings of fatigue.
Remember, while these are all symptoms of a fluctuation in estrogen levels, they may also signal other health problems.
When should you consider checking your estrogen levels?
If you believe that you may be experiencing symptoms of changes in your hormone levels, such as changes in your periods, mood changes or anything else that may concern you, you should contact your healthcare provider. If you are interested in learning more about your hormone levels, you can do so with our range of female hormone testing options.
The LetsGetChecked Female Hormone Testing option measures a number of key hormones, providing you with an overview of your reproductive health status.
This test is beneficial for anyone who wants a comprehensive overview of their current hormone levels. It will offer insight into your estrogen levels as well as other hormonal imbalances such as:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Ovarian failure
- Low ovarian reserve
- Early menopause
- Menopause
- Thyroid Issues
- Ovulation function issues
Please note that this content is for informational use and is not a substitute for medical advice. This content cannot diagnose or provide information about treatment. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or need specific medical advice relating to any symptoms, conditions, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not delay seeking medical advice, and do not disregard professional medical advice based on this content. Your healthcare provider can provide the most suitable guidance based on your situation.
References
- Mayo Clinic. Amenorrhea. Online: [Mayoclinic.org](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/amenorrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20369299#:~:text=An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism,Premature menopause.)
- NHS. Hormone headaches. Online: NHS.uk
