Estrogen Dominance: What It Is and What It Is Not

If you’ve been reading about hormone health online, you may have come across the term “estrogen dominance”. It’s often discussed as a common cause of symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and mood changes. But what does it actually mean? And what does it not mean? Understanding the truth behind estrogen dominance can help you make informed decisions about your hormone health.

What Is Estrogen Dominance?

Estrogen dominance occurs when there is too much estrogen relative to progesterone, not necessarily because estrogen is elevated on its own. This imbalance can happen in several life stages, including perimenopause, postpartum, or due to lifestyle and environmental factors.

Common symptoms of estrogen dominance may include:

• Irregular or heavy periods

• Breast tenderness

• Bloating or water retention

• Mood swings or irritability

• Fatigue

• Headaches or migraines

• Difficulty losing weight

It’s important to note that these symptoms are non-specific, which is why proper hormone testing is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

What Estrogen Dominance Is Not

There are a few misconceptions around estrogen dominance:

1. It is not just “high estrogen”
   Estrogen dominance doesn’t always mean estrogen levels are abnormally high. You could have normal estrogen levels but low progesterone, which still creates an imbalance.

2. It is not the cause of every symptom
   Many symptoms attributed to estrogen dominance, like bloating or mood changes, could also be caused by thyroid imbalances, stress, or nutrient deficiencies.

3. It is not only a concern for older women
   While perimenopause often brings hormonal shifts, estrogen dominance can affect women at any age, including those in their 20s and 30s.

How to Know If You Might Have Estrogen Dominance

The best way to determine if estrogen dominance is affecting you is through hormone testing. Common hormones checked include:

• Estradiol (E2) – primary estrogen

• Progesterone – balances estrogen, especially in the luteal phase

• Testosterone – low levels can exacerbate hormonal imbalance

• FSH and LH – provide insight into ovarian function

• Thyroid hormones – can contribute to similar symptoms

Timing of testing matters:

• Day 3 of your cycle: FSH, LH, estradiol

• Day 21 (luteal phase): Progesterone

• Other days as needed: Testosterone, thyroid

What Can Help Balance Hormones

Hormone balance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Strategies may include:

• Lifestyle approaches: Balanced nutrition, regular movement, stress management, and adequate sleep

• Targeted supplementation: Based on deficiencies identified through testing

• Bioidentical hormone therapy or prescription medications: When lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, under guidance from a qualified practitioner

Final Thoughts

Estrogen dominance is more about hormonal balance than high estrogen alone. Understanding your cycle, knowing when to test, and getting personalized guidance are the most effective ways to manage symptoms and improve overall hormone health.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance or want to know if estrogen dominance might be affecting you, book a consult today at Momentum Kelowna.