Estrogen dominance

What is estrogen dominance?

Estrogen dominance occurs when there is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. This condition is quite common among women, especially during certain phases of life when progesterone production declines, leaving estrogen unchecked.

Some key signs and symptoms of estrogen dominance include:

• Irregular, heavy, or painful menstrual cycles


• PMS symptoms like breast tenderness, bloating, and mood swings


• Difficulty losing weight


• Foggy thinking and memory lapses


• Low libido


• Headaches and migraines


• Cold hands and feet

There are a few major causes behind surging estrogen levels:

• Perimenopause and the transition to menopause when progesterone secretion declines


• Use of external estrogen through birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy


• Obesity which elevates adipose tissue aromatase activity


• Chronic stress inhibiting progesterone output


• Environmental xenoestrogen exposure

To alleviate estrogen dominance, it's important to focus on lifestyle changes as well as nutritional and botanical supplements that can help rebalance hormones:

• Increase fiber to eliminate excess estrogen


• Choose progesterone-supporting herbs like chasteberry


• Manage stress through yoga, meditation, etc.


• Consider a DUTCH test to tailor hormone balancing

In summary, estrogen dominance stems from disproportionate estrogen signaling that disrupts menstrual rhythm, weight management, cognition, and more for women. Seeking professional medical advice for lab testing and custom regimens focused on healthier estrogen-progesterone ratios proves highly effective. Achieving lasting hormonal balance greatly improves quality of life.