Did you know that oestrogen is the most important female hormone? Without sufficient oestrogen, women would not be able to enjoy the best years of their lives. Read on to find out more about oestrogen, its different types and what causes its deficiency.

 

What is oestrogen?

Oestrogen is a hormone that is important for female reproduction and has many benefits for the female body. It is produced in the ovaries and is responsible for controlling the female reproductive organs. Together with progesterone (a steroid hormone produced by the corpus luteum, placenta and adrenal cortex, read more about progesterone here), it is one of the main hormones released during menopause. Women produce oestrogen in their ovaries, adipose tissue and digestive system. When women reach menopause, the amount of oestrogen in their bodies gradually decreases. This can have many consequences for the body and general health.

 

Benefits of oestrogens

- Reproductive health. Women's reproductive health is highly dependent on adequate levels of oestrogen. When oestrogen levels are low, irregular periods, painful menstruation and problems conceiving can occur. Women with low oestrogen levels may experience unpleasant experiences during sexual intercourse due to lower levels of lubrication and reduced libido. 
- Oestrogens are important for bone development in women. Women with low levels of oestrogens may have an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

- Mood. Estrogens have a major influence on mood by regulating hormones that affect our thinking and well-being. For women going through the menopause, the reduction in oestrogen levels during this period can lead to mood changes and sometimes even depression.

- Skin health. Women who have reduced levels of oestrogen, such as those going through the menopause, may experience reduced skin thickness, wrinkles and sagging. 

- Heart health. Oestrogens have been shown to have a positive effect on heart health. For women who have gone through menopause, lower levels of oestrogen are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

 

Reduced levels of oestrogen in the body

During the menopause, many women experience a decrease in oestrogen levels, which can cause many side effects, including hot flashes and mood swings. Although reduced oestrogen levels may be a natural part of the ageing process, there are many reasons why a woman may experience reduced oestrogen levels when she is young. If you experience any of the following symptoms, be sure to see your doctor as this may be a sign that your oestrogen levels are lower than normal: 

 

- Hot flashes: this is a sudden sensation of heat and sweating that occurs without warning. 

- changes in mood: if you notice that you are more irritable, anxious or sad than usual, this could be a sign that your oestrogen levels are lower than normal. 

- Insomnia: hot flushes and mood changes are often associated with sleep disturbances and are a common symptom of lower oestrogen levels. 

- Vaginal dryness: vaginal dryness can make sexual intercourse very painful and make it difficult for a woman to reach orgasm. 

- Skin changes: as we age, the skin tends to become thinner and drier, but lower levels of oestrogen can accelerate this process.

 

An imbalance of testosterone and oestrogen

In some cases, low levels of oestrogen can be associated with an imbalance between testosterone (a steroid hormone, read more about it here) and oestrogen (the female sex hormone). When a woman's body produces more testosterone than oestrogen, the risk of PMS increases. This can lead to unwanted hair growth, mood swings and reduced sex drive. It can also affect fertility, as high levels of testosterone can reduce a woman's fertility. The best way to combat this imbalance is through a well-balanced diet. By eating foods rich in oestrogen, such as soybeans, kidney beans, broccoli, flaxseeds and apples, you can maintain healthy levels of oestrogen throughout your body. 

 

Types of oestrogens in the female body

Oestrogens can be divided into two subgroups: endogenous and exogenous. Endogenous oestrogens are produced by the body, while exogenous oestrogens come from external sources. The main endogenous oestrogen is oestradiol. It is responsible for many of the functions for which oestrogens are renowned, including reproduction, bone health and sex drive. Oestradiol can be converted into another type of oestrogen, oestrone, which is also produced by the body. Exogenous oestrogens can be produced by taking oestrogen supplements. The two most commonly prescribed oestrogen supplements are estradiol and estriol. Although these supplements are often beneficial, it is important to consult your doctor about the appropriate dose for your particular case. 

 

How can I increase the amount of oestrogen in my body?

For optimal levels of oestrogen in the body, it is important to follow a healthy diet. It is also important to exercise regularly and not to smoke to reduce the risk of cancer, as oestrogen levels are very important in the fight against cancer cells, so it is important to monitor your levels regularly and have timely check-ups.

To help you maintain hormone balance and healthy oestrogen levels, here are some tips on how to achieve this: 

- A healthy diet is important for all aspects of health, including hormone health. A diet rich in vegetables, legumes and fruit can help boost oestrogen levels. 

- Quality sleep is important for many aspects of health, including hormone health. Sleep can help balance oestrogen and other hormones. 

- Reducing stressful situations, as stress can affect hormone levels in the body and should be avoided as much as possible. 

- Sugar intake, as sugar is associated with changes in hormone levels in the body. 

- Adequate intake of water in the body - hydration can help regulate hormone levels and keep the body healthy. 

- Physical activity can help to increase the levels of oestrogen and many other hormones in the body. 

- Avoiding/abstaining from smoking and alcohol - smoking and alcohol can have a negative effect on the levels of hormones in the body, including oestrogen. 

 

For more on hormones in men and women, see: What are hormones and how do they affect the body?; Melatonin, what is it and how does it work?; What is the thyroid gland? What are its functions?; What is serotonin?.