Estrogen, or the female sex hormone, is responsible for sexual and reproductive well-being. Although it is primarily a female sex hormone, small amounts are also produced in males. Low estrogen levels can affect not just reproductive health but also brain and heart health.
Read on to discover some of the causes of low estrogen.
What causes low estrogen levels?
Some of the probable causes of lack of estrogen are:
- Perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause: Estrogen levels begin to decline in perimenopause, which is the first stage of menopause and occurs 4-8 years before menopause. As the menstrual cycle stops during menopause and postmenopause, estrogen level drops as the ovaries no longer make the hormone. Fat cells make the majority of the body’s estrogen in this phase.
- Eating disorders: Eating disorders, including bulimia and anorexia, are another cause of lack of estrogen. Around 60-80% of anorexia patients have lower blood levels of estrogen.
- Health conditions: Fragile X syndrome and Turner syndrome cause low estrogen. Fragile X syndrome is characterised by reduced function of the ovaries, the primary producer of estrogen. In Turner syndrome, the ovaries do not function properly, leading to hormone deficiency. Other conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and thyroid disorders may also lead to low estrogen levels.
- Pituitary gland dysfunction: The pituitary gland releases hormones that stimulate the ovaries to produce estrogen. If it fails to release the necessary hormones, the pituitary gland can contribute to low estrogen levels.
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding mimics menopause due to the production of prolactin, the milk-producing hormone. This temporarily inhibits estrogen production in the body.
- Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): In this condition, a woman stops ovulating before the age of 40, causing the ovaries to produce insufficient estrogen. This leads to irregular or absent menstrual periods.
Conclusion
There are several possible causes of low estrogen levels in the body, and identifying the underlying reason is essential for proper management. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your health, consulting a doctor for diagnosis and treatment is crucial. A comprehensive health insurance plan can provide financial security during this time, covering medical consultations, tests, and treatments. This ensures you have financial protection and peace of mind during unforeseen medical events.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.