Oestrogen And How It Affects You

4. Low oestrogen levels cause hot flashes

Global warming might take all the flak, but that urge to stick your head in the fridge is really all about your oestrogen levels. As women age, the ovaries produce less oestrogen and progesterone, leading to irregular periods and hot flashes. This typically occurs between the ages of 45 to 55. Taking oestrogen can alleviate these symptoms, and save you the raised eyebrows when you turn up the AC in winter!

5. Oestrogen revs up your sex drive

Women experience high sex drive just before and after ovulation. After menstrual periods cease, sex drive takes a dive as well. A low oestrogen level during menopause is also partly to blame for loss of sex drive in older women. It also causes reduced blood flow to the vagina, leading to dry and painful sex, as well as a reduced response to sensual touch. However, stress, anxiety and the hormones testosterone and progesterone also impact on your sex drive.

6. Oestrogen controls weight gain

Before you rush into the next fad diet, consider this; low oestrogen levels can lead to weight gain. Studies have shown that low oestrogen levels slow your metabolism, reducing the breakdown of sugar and starch. This leads to more rapid weight gain. This is probably why women gain weight once they reach menopause, when oestrogen levels are much lower. Additionally, taking oestrogen has been shown to increase your body’s resting metabolic rate, which helps to slow down weight gain.

7. Oestrogen prevents osteoporosis

Low oestrogen levels are responsible for osteoporosis in both men and women. This is a condition in which the bones become more porous and weaken as minerals are reabsorbed from it. Oestrogen therapy has proved useful at slowing down or preventing osteoporosis.

Taking oestrogen can have many beneficial effects for women, especially those in menopause. However, it is associated with higher risks of breast cancer, high blood pressure and gall bladder disease. It is therefore important to discuss these risks with your doctor before considering oestrogen therapy for any condition.

Have you thought of getting oestrogen therapy?