Estrogen is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics, regulation of the menstrual cycle, bone health, and more.

While it is essential for reproductive health and well-being, elevated Estrogen levels can lead to complications and health issues.  

When Estrogen levels rise from beyond the normal levels, it can lead to high Estrogen levels or Estrogen dominance. 

This article explores the concept of high Estrogen, its impact on the body, symptoms, causes, associated conditions, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is high Estrogen?

High Estrogen, also known as Estrogen dominance, refers to a hormonal imbalance where Estrogen levels exceed the normal range, leading to various physiological disturbances.

Estrogen levels can impact various body areas, including the reproductive system, skin, bones, muscles, brain, and breast tissue.  

Estrogen levels can rise due to multiple factors, including medication, obesity, stress, liver problems, alcohol consumption, and exposure to synthetic Xenoestrogens.

Normal Estrogen levels

Normal Estrogen levels vary by age and sex.

In women

The normal Estrogen, Estrone (E1) and Estrdiol (E2),  levels in women are:

  • Before puberty: undetectable to 29 pg/ml (E1) and undetectable to 20 pg/ml (E2)
  • During puberty: 17–200 pg/ml (E1) and undetectable to 350 pg/ml (E2)
  • Before menopause: 17–200 pg/ml (E1) and 15-50 pg/ml (E2)
  • After menopause: 7–40 pg/ml (E1) and less than 10 pg/ml (E2)

In men

The normal Estrogen, Estrone (E1) and Estrdiol (E2),  levels in men are:

  • Before puberty: undetectable to 16 pg/ml (E1) and undetectable to 13 pg/ml (E2)
  • During puberty: undetectable to 60 pg/ml (E1) and undetectable to 40 pg/ml (E2)
  • 18 years and over: 10–60 pg/ml (E1) and 10–40 pg/ml (E2)

Symptoms of high Estrogen levels

High Estrogen levels in the body can manifest through various symptoms and signs. 

These symptoms can affect both women and men, indicating hormonal imbalances that may require medical attention.

In women

In females, elevated Estrogen levels can lead to various symptoms, including:

  • Weight gain around the hips and waist
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Severe PMS symptoms
  • Fatigue
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Fibrocystic breast lumps
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Mood swings or anxiety
  • Additional possible symptoms may include bloating, headaches, disrupted sleep, and hair loss
Fact:
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that appear during childbearing years. These growths are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size.

In men

In males, high Estrogen levels can manifest as:

  • Enlarged breasts (Gynecomastia)
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Infertility
  • Increased rates of depression

Causes of high Estrogen levels

Several factors can contribute to an increase in Estrogen levels:

  • Changes in Estrogen metabolism: Alterations in how the body breaks down or excretes Estrogen can contribute to hormonal imbalances
  • Obesity: Excess body weight can lead to higher Estrogen levels, as fat tissue synthesizes Estrogen
  • Stress: Chronic stress increases Cortisol levels, which may deplete Progesterone and consequently raise Estrogen levels
  • Alcohol consumption: High alcohol intake can increase Estradiol levels and impede Estrogen processing
  • Intestinal dysbiosis: An imbalance in gut bacteria can reduce the body’s ability to eliminate excess Estrogen
  • Xenoestrogen exposure: Certain chemicals, like BPA and phthalates in plastics and personal care products, can mimic Estrogen in the body
  • Medications: Some drugs may elevate Estrogen levels or suppress Progesterone
  • Health conditions: Conditions such as PCOS, uterine fibroids, Endometriosis, and certain cancers can lead to Estrogen dominance
  • Tumors: Rarely, tumors, such as feminizing Adrenocortical tumors or Adrenal tumors, can secrete Estrogen, causing high levels in males and children
  • Genetic conditions: Inherited conditions like Aromatase excess syndrome can result in excessive Estrogen production
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: High Estrogen levels can lead to PCOS, causing additional symptoms

In transgender individuals transitioning from female to male, high Estrogen levels may prevent the body from developing the desired secondary sexual characteristics. 

Complications of high Estrogen levels

Checking her blood pressure level
High blood pressure level

When left unmanaged, high Estrogen levels can lead to several potential complications and health risks. These include:

  • High blood pressure: Elevated Estrogen levels can contribute to an increased risk of high blood pressure (hypertension), posing a significant risk factor for heart disease and other cardiovascular problems
  • Blood clots: High Estrogen levels can promote blood clot formation, raising the risk of conditions like Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism 
  • Hypocalcemia: High Estrogen can interfere with calcium metabolism, potentially leading to Hypocalcemia. This can affect bone health and other bodily functions
  • Breast cancer: Prolonged exposure to high Estrogen levels has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer
  • Exacerbation of preexisting conditions: High Estrogen levels can worsen pre-existing health conditions such as asthma and epilepsy
  • Gestational Diabetes: During pregnancy, elevated levels of free Estriol, a type of Estrogen, have been associated with an increased risk of Gestational Diabetes
Warning:
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of blood clots within the deep veins, typically in the legs. Without treatment, these clots can travel to the lungs, leading to Pulmonary Embolism.

Diagnosis and testing

To diagnose high Estrogen levels, healthcare providers may conduct an Estrogen test, measuring Estrone (E1), Estradiol (E2), and Estriol (E3) levels in the blood. 

Doctors can measure three types of Estrogen in females and only Estradiol and Estrone in males. 

Treatment and management

The treatment for high Estrogen levels depends on the underlying cause. 

Lifestyle changes and medications can be part of the management strategy.

Medical treatment

Here are some medical treatments that healthcare providers may recommend to address high Estrogen levels:

  • Aromatase inhibitors: Aromatase inhibitors, such as Arimidex (Anastrozole), are medications designed to block this enzyme’s activity. By doing so, they effectively reduce the conversion of Androgens into Estrogen
  • Synthetic Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH): Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone is a hormone that controls the release of other hormones, including Estrogen
  • Oophorectomy (Ovary Removal Surgery): In cases where there is a high risk of cancer due to high Estrogen, a doctor may recommend surgical removal of the ovaries
  • GnRH agonists to halt ovarian Estrogen release
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Lifestyle changes

Alcohol should be avoided
Avoid alcohol

These changes may include:

  • Eating a plant-based or anti-inflammatory diet
  • Consuming more soy, flaxseed, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale
  • Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into the diet
  • Maintaining a moderate weight
  • Stress reduction techniques
  • Limiting alcohol consumption
  • Avoiding Xenoestrogens, such as BPA in plastics

Conclusion

High Estrogen, or Estrogen dominance, can have far-reaching effects, impacting various systems and potentially leading to a range of health issues.

It may manifest as irregular menstrual periods, mood swings, or breast-related concerns in women. 

At the same time, it can lead to issues like infertility and Gynecomastia in men.

The underlying causes are obesity, stress, medications, and certain health conditions, which can contribute to elevated Estrogen.

Managing high Estrogen levels involves both lifestyle changes and medical treatments. 

Medical treatments may include aromatase inhibitors, synthetic Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH), or surgical procedures like oophorectomy.

Lifestyle modifications can include dietary adjustments, stress reduction, and avoiding exposure to synthetic Xenoestrogens. 

With proper diagnosis and treatment, hormonal imbalances can often be effectively managed, contributing to better overall health and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PCOS cause high Estrogen?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can lead to high Estrogen levels in some individuals. Hormonal imbalances, including elevated levels of Estrogen, characterize PCOS. This condition may result in irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, and other symptoms associated with high Estrogen.

What happens when Estrogen levels are high?

High Estrogen levels can lead to various symptoms and health issues. It may cause irregular periods, mood swings, breast tenderness, and an increased risk of certain cancers in females. High Estrogen can lead to infertility, Gynecomastia (breast enlargement), and other complications in males.

Can you get pregnant with high Estrogen?

Yes, it is possible to get pregnant with high Estrogen levels. However, if Estrogen dominance is causing irregular menstrual cycles, it may be more challenging to conceive. Seeking medical guidance and treatment for hormonal imbalances can help improve fertility.

What foods decrease Estrogen?

Certain foods can help balance Estrogen levels, including cruciferous veggies like broccoli and fiber-rich foods like whole grains and flaxseeds. Additionally, anti-inflammatory options like turmeric, green tea, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon and walnuts can reduce Estrogen.

Citations:
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