Estrogen

The Predominant hormone in the first 2 weeks after our period.

Where Is it made? In your ovaries, in fat tissue, and in your gut (certain gut bacteria activate estrogen).

Its role? To stimulate the lining of the uterus to grow thicker for a successful implantation/conception of a fertilized egg.

Our version of testosterone- boosts mood and libido, also our 🚴‍GO hormone. Women generally feel more confident & active in this part of their cycle.

Also effects other parts of the body -bone, skin, brain, heart and metabolism.

It effects the amount of cholesterol secreted from the body.

It effects the sensitivity of insulin.

Hence many menopausal women, who experience declining levels of estrogen, develop osteoporosis, high cholesterol, diabetes and poor memory.

Low estrogen symptoms: think everything low Irregular periods Short or light periods Low mood- depression Low concentration Low libido/ vaginal dryness/ painful intercourse Low energy & poor sleep Nights sweats and hot flashes

High Estrogen symptoms: Heavy irregular periods. Painful periods- cramps Headaches/migraines before period Breast tenderness & bloating Weight gain *estrogen fat Impairs blood sugar levels- sugar cravings Interferes with thyroid function Anxious, nervous, irritable - Pcos, pms, endometriosis, fibroids, fibrocystic breasts- to a certain degree fall under this category.

How can you test for Estrogen levels? 1. Blood test- shows estrogen 2. Urine test- shows estrogen and its breakdown products levels (shows us how well its eliminated from the body)

When would you run a urine test? When your bloodwork shows normal and you still have symptoms.

*estrogen fat- additional fat deposited in certain areas of a reproductive women as an additional energy reserve for pregnant/breast feeding women.