Estrogen deficiency. Female hormones estrogens: symptoms of deficiency, consequences, restoration of hormonal levels

Sex hormones - estrogens, have great importance for the woman's body. They participate in the regulation of work reproductive system, influence the functioning of most organs and slow down the aging process. A sharp decrease in their levels occurs during menopause.

Lack of estrogen leads to the appearance of symptoms that are combined into the concept “ climacteric syndrome" Against the background of their deficiency, the risk of developing atherosclerosis increases, coronary disease hearts, arterial hypertension and other chronic pathologies.

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Estrogens: functions, causes of deficiency

The main amount of sex hormones in women of fertile age is produced in the ovaries. A smaller part is formed in peripheral tissues from male androgens, under the action of the aromatase enzyme. The most active estrogen is estradiol, which is synthesized from androstenedione and testosterone.

List of organs and systems sensitive to estrogen

Regulation of the production of sex hormones is carried out by pituitary gonadotropins. The production of estradiol by ovarian cells occurs under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It also helps increase aromatase in peripheral tissues. The production of estradiol in the dominant follicle and corpus luteum is under the control of luteinizing hormone (LH).

The biological effects of estrogens are carried out through their interaction with receptors located in target organs. Sensitive to sex hormones are: uterus, ovaries, pituitary gland, hypothalamus, central nervous system, mammary glands, heart, blood vessels, bone tissue, liver and others.

In a woman's body, estrogens perform many functions:

• responsible for development reproductive organs and the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty;
• regulate the menstrual cycle;
• redistribute subcutaneous fat according to the female type;
• stimulate renewal processes bone tissue;
• have a protective effect on the vascular wall;
• regulate the formation of collagen and elastin, maintaining normal skin structure;
• have antiatherogenic (preventing the development cardiovascular diseases) action;
• increase the synthesis of transport proteins in the liver;
• have antidepressant properties;
• improve memory and motivation;
• affect the blood coagulation system.



Decrease in sex hormone levels in women with age

With age, there is a gradual decline in reproductive function. In the ovaries, the processes of programmed death of cells that synthesize sex hormones are accelerated, and the number of receptors for gonadotropins decreases. Low levels of estradiol in the blood lead to increased secretion of FSH. Its level increases significantly shortly before the last menstruation - menopause. Due to the insensitivity of the gonads to the action of gonadotropin against the background of its excess, the amount of estrogen still continues to fall. Over time, their production in the ovaries completely stops. After the completion of menstrual function, testosterone from peripheral tissues becomes the main source of female hormones.



Symptoms of estrogen deficiency

Most women reach menopause between the ages of 50 and 52. Estrogen deficiency in the premenopausal period is manifested by a violation of regularity monthly cycle. Bleeding becomes scanty, less prolonged and, in most cases, anovulatory. The ability to conceive at this time decreases.



Average age of onset individual symptoms menopause

The lack of sex hormones during postmenopause affects the condition of all target organs. Changes in their work lead to the development of menopausal syndrome.

Its manifestations can be divided into the following groups:

• vasomotor symptoms;
• psychoemotional disorders;
• atrophic processes in genitourinary system;
• changes in the structure of the skin and its appendages;
• metabolic and endocrine disorders.



Vasomotor disorders

Vasomotor symptoms of estrogen deficiency are observed in most women aged 45–50 years. The main ones are tides. Hot flashes develop suddenly against the background of a sharp release of LH into the blood. Sometimes they are preceded by a feeling of pressure in the head. The heat wave spreads from top to bottom and gradually covers the entire body. Temperature often rises, peripheral vessels dilate, pulse increases and excessive sweating occurs. The duration of the episodes ranges from 10 to 20 minutes. An increase in their development at night and in the hot season has been noticed. Hot flashes can bother a woman for more than 5 years.

Depending on the number of hot flashes, menopausal syndrome is divided into several forms:

• light - up to 10 times a day;
• medium - from 10 to 20 times;
• severe - more than 20 times a day.



Symptoms of excess estrogen - how to treat hyperestrogenism

Psycho-emotional disorders

Changes in emotional status manifest themselves as increased excitability, tearfulness, vulnerability. There are sudden mood swings, suspiciousness appears, causeless fear, intrusive thoughts and actions. Due to frequent hot flashes, sleep is disturbed, and awakening with a feeling of fatigue is typical.

Performance decreases, memory and attentiveness deteriorate. A number of women develop depression and lack of appetite. Lack of estrogen also leads to a decrease in sexual desire. At severe forms libido may increase during menopause.

Atrophy of the genitourinary system

Atrophic processes in the genitourinary system develop later, at the age of 55–60 years. The vaginal mucosa becomes thinner, becomes vulnerable and sensitive to minor injuries. The vaginal secretion is disrupted acid-base balance, the number of lactobacilli decreases. I am concerned about burning and itching in the genital area.

Weakening muscle tone pelvic floor leads to urinary disorders and urinary incontinence. Older women are more likely to experience inflammatory diseases- colpitis, which is insensitive to traditional treatment, but respond well to treatment with local forms of estrogens.

Most women don't know that estrogens, or female sex hormones, affect more than just their reproductive function, but also on mental condition and appearance. These hormones play an important role in the female body. The condition of the skin, nails and hair, balance of character and libido - everything is subject to the actions of these hormones. But not only low estrogens, but also their excess can cause harm to health.

About estrogens and their types

The name of the hormone estrogen comes from two Greek words and translates as liveliness/brightness and gender. In fact, there are three types of estrogens, and although they are considered female hormones, they are not large quantities are also produced in males. Conversely, androgens, which are generally recognized as masculine, occur in small quantities in the fair sex.

Estrogens, like androgens, are steroid hormones that are synthesized from cholesterol. In women, they are produced by follicles located in the ovaries in the first half menstrual cycle. In men, estrogen production occurs in the testicles. In people of both sexes, these hormones are produced by the adrenal glands and tissues other than the reproductive system (bones and brain, fatty tissue and skin, hair follicles). In addition, their production increases significantly in women during pregnancy (due to the corpus luteum first, and then the placenta).

Specifically, estrogens are synthesized from androgens with the participation of a special enzyme, aromatase, which is present in the cells of both the ovaries and testicles, as well as in other tissues. The varied action of these hormones is due to the presence in a number of organs (they are called target organs) of special receptors with which they bind. Special estrogen-sensitive receptors are located in:

• endometrium of the uterus;
• vaginal mucosa;
• mammary glands;
• urethra;
• brain;
• in hair and nails;
• heart and blood vessels;
• liver;
• hypothalamus;
• pituitary gland;
• bones.

In men, steroids (androgens and estrogens) begin to be produced in utero, and in women (girls), the ovaries begin to work much later. Androgens, from which estrogens are formed, are produced by follicles in girls, starting from 7 to 8 years of age, peak production occurs at puberty and continues until menopause. In postmenopause, estrogens are produced in small quantities by the adrenal cortex and fatty tissue.

Types of estrogens

There are three types of female sex hormones:

• Estradiol is rightfully the most important of estrogens. It is part of the hormonal birth control pills. Thanks to estradiol, a woman develops female sexual characteristics (hair, mammary glands, female body type), it is also responsible for a high-pitched voice and the smoothness and elasticity of the skin.
• Estrone - stimulates the development of the uterus and the growth of the endometrium in it.
• Estriol - it is formed due to the first two estrogens and plays a role during pregnancy - fetal growth and placental function.

The role of estrogen in the body

Estrogens are equally necessary for both women and male body. Estrogen levels differ between men and women.

The norm of estrogen in the female body:

• estrone
  • in the first phase 5 – 9 ng%,
  • in the second 3 – 25 ng%,
  • during pregnancy 1500 – 3000 ng%;
• estradiol
  • in the first phase 15 – 160 ng/l,
  • mid-cycle 34 – 400 ng/l,
  • in the second phase 27 – 246 ng/l,
  • during pregnancy it increases to 17,000 – 18,000,
  • during menopause and postmenopause 5 – 30 ng/l;
• Estriol is determined mainly during pregnancy (or during planning), the indicators depend on the week of gestation.

Estrogen levels in the male body:

• estrone 3 – 6 ng%;
• estradiol 5 – 53 ng/l.

Why do women need estrogens?

The functions of female sex hormones are varied and include:

• ensuring the growth and development of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries;
• formation of a female-type figure due to special fat deposition: wide pelvis and hips, thin waist;
• formation and growth of mammary glands during puberty;
• the appearance of female-type hair growth, special pigmentation of the nipples and external genitalia;
• regulation of the cycle, ensuring conception;
• increasing the tone of the uterus and peristalsis of the tubes (for the rapid movement of sperm to the egg);
• regulation of lipid metabolism (removal of “bad” cholesterol and retention of “good”);
• prevention of atherosclerosis (inhibits the formation of cholesterol plaques);
• increased levels of copper and ferrates (iron) in the blood;
• strengthening bones (preventing osteoporosis);
• improvement of short-term memory;
• strengthening the ability to concentrate;
• effect on skin, hair, nails (skin is smooth and thin, nails are strong, hair is thick and shiny);
• normal course of pregnancy.

Why do men need estrogens?

Female sex hormones play no less important role and in the body of men. They perform the following functions:

• maintaining bone strength;
• support muscle growth and recovery (along with testosterone);
• protection of cardio-vascular system(in men, heart attacks are diagnosed more often);
• prevention of atherosclerosis;
• regulation of central nervous system(relieves aggression, improves mood);
• activation of sexual desire.

Causes of estrogen disorders

There are some reasons for an excess of estrogen, as well as for a lack of these hormones, therefore, before trying to cope with the problem, you should decide on the factor, and perhaps more than one, that caused the increased or reduced level female sex hormones.

Causes of estrogen deficiency

Hypoestrogenism is caused by the following factors:

• hypofunction of the ovaries (menopause or sexual infantility);
• dysfunction of the pituitary gland;
• playing sports (professional, usually strength sports);
• significant and sudden loss of body weight (lack of adipose tissue, which also produces estrogens);
• eating disorders (irrational and irregular);
• lack of vitamins (vitamin C and group B);
• delay in physical development;
• surgical interventions on the ovaries;
• pathology of the adrenal glands;
• infectious lesion of the pituitary gland;
• ovarian tumors/cysts that produce large amounts of androgens;
• stress;
• taking psychotropic drugs;
• alcohol, smoking;
• chromosomal abnormalities (Shereshevsky-Turner syndrome);
• ovarian wasting syndrome (early menopause);
• polycystic ovary syndrome.

Causes of increased estrogen

Hyperestrogenism is observed in the following diseases:

• liver diseases (cirrhosis, liver failure);
• estrogen-producing tumors and ovarian cysts;
• hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex;
• taking hormonal contraceptives;
• chorionepithelioma;
• pituitary adenoma;
• premature sexual development;
• eating disorders;
• obesity;
• psycho-emotional stress;
• pathology of the thyroid gland;
• bad habits;
• pregnancy;
• lack of vitamins;
• constant contact with chemicals(folates, insecticides);
• taking barbiturates, anti-tuberculosis and hypoglycemic drugs.

Clinical picture

Symptoms in women depend on the level of estrogen in the body. As already mentioned, the level of estrogen in the female body depends on age. That is, their number begins to increase from the age of 7, and then gradually decreases (about 45 - 50).

With normal levels of these hormones (and the absence of other pathologies):

• a woman is almost always balanced and has an even mood
• she has no problems with the menstrual cycle, there are no signs of premenstrual syndrome, she does not experience difficulties conceiving
• Outwardly, such a woman looks “excellent”:
  • hair is normal thickness and shiny,
  • skin is smooth and elastic,
  • nails will not peel off.

But as soon as a hormonal imbalance occurs - a lack or increase in estrogen, external and internal metamorphoses immediately occur.

Estrogen deficiency

In teenage girls

In girls who have not reached puberty, the symptoms of a lack of female sex hormones are as follows:

• Slowing growth and formation of the skeleton - that is, delaying physical development;
• Delayed development of the external genitalia. Secondary sexual characteristics (pubic hair, armpit hair, breast growth) begin to appear much later or do not appear at all until appropriate treatment is prescribed.
• Primary amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) occurs, which without further treatment will develop into infertility.
• The deficiency of these hormones in teenage girls also affects the formation of their figure. Instead of a “female” type, with all the inherent roundness, a figure is formed according to the androgenic (male) body type: broad shoulders and a narrow pelvis.
• There may also be a decrease in mental activity and sharp changes moods.

In mature women

• Appearance . In women, estrogen deficiency primarily affects appearance. Dryness and slight trauma to the skin appear, it becomes thin, loses elasticity, and new wrinkles appear. One more characteristic feature serves as the appearance of new skin formations: papillomas, moles and age spots. Hair becomes thin and brittle, splits and begins to actively fall out, and nails peel.
• Mental condition. Relatives and even the woman herself note causeless mood swings, depression and irritability, constant fatigue and decreased performance. Such patients often suffer from headaches and insomnia.
• Sexuality. Women lose interest in sex, and sexual intercourse itself does not bring pleasure (frigidity). In addition, vaginal dryness occurs, since estrogens affect the production of “lubrication”, and therefore the woman experiences discomfort and even pain during coitus.
• Gynecological problems. With a lack of these hormones, menstrual cycle disorders occur, periods disappear or intermenstrual bleeding appears, which leads to anovulation and, as a consequence, infertility. It is possible to reduce the size of the mammary glands and change their shape.
• Lack of estrogen also causes internal changes. Problems arise with blood pressure (vegetative-vascular dystonia), thermoregulation (either hot or cold), later heart pain occurs, the ability to concentrate decreases and memory deteriorates.
• Violation calcium metabolism (accelerates the removal of this microelement from the body), which affects the condition of bones and joints. Joint pain appears, and bones lose density, which leads to mild and sometimes causeless (spontaneous) fractures (osteoporosis).

In general, estrogen deficiency is a high risk of developing:

• myocardial infarction;
• diabetes mellitus;
• osteoporosis;
• prolapse of the genital organs ( complete loss uterus);
• chronic genitourinary infections;
• fungal infections of the skin and nails;
• breast tumors;
• infertility.

Excess estrogen

An increased content of estrogen in the body is also considered a pathology and is accompanied by the appearance of the following symptoms:

• Excess weight

On the one hand, estrogens retain fluid in the body, which leads to hidden swelling and weight gain. On the other hand, excess estrogen increases appetite, a woman begins to eat more than usual, excess calories turn into fat, which is located on the waist and hips. A adipose tissue synthesize estrogens, thus forming a vicious circle.

• Cycle disorders

Any hormonal disorder, including increased estrogen, leads to cycle disorders. In this case, this manifests itself in the form of irregular periods, they become prolonged, and blood loss is large, even uterine bleeding.

• Occurrence of tumors

Hormonal imbalance, in particular hyperestrogenism, contributes to the development of tumor-like formations of the uterus (fibroids, cancer) and ovaries (hormone-producing cysts and tumors). Breast cancer also often develops.

• Pathology of the thyroid gland

Thyroid hormones and estrogens are interrelated. With thyroid diseases, an imbalance of sex hormones occurs and vice versa. An increase in estrogen provokes the development of hypothyroidism, which is accompanied by coldness of the extremities and unsteadiness, nausea and vomiting, weakness, lethargy and bloating.

• Cardiovascular pathology

Estrogens cause blood thickening, which in turn leads to the formation of blood clots in the vessels, varicose veins veins and other pathologies, up to the occurrence of myocardial infarction. Arterial hypertension also develops.

• Headaches, dizziness
• Mastodynia - pain in the mammary glands occurs due to fluid retention and swelling.
• Chloasma - yellow spots appear on the skin.
• Emotional disorders - excess estrogen leads to irritability, sudden mood swings and depression. Insomnia also develops, work ability decreases and memory deteriorates.

Estrogen analysis

If you suspect an increased or decreased level of female sex hormones, the doctor will definitely prescribe an estrogen test.

For this purpose they take venous blood. Blood is drawn in the morning on an empty stomach. Last meal at least 8 hours before blood donation. The day before, it is recommended to avoid heavy physical activity and stress, not drink alcohol or smoke. Also, the day before donating blood, you should not have sex and follow a diet (exclude fatty and spicy foods).

Cycle day

You should donate blood for estrogen on a certain day of your cycle:

• with a 28-day cycle – on days 2–5;
• with a cycle longer than 28 days – on days 5–7;
• with a cycle less than 28 - on days 2-3.

Indications

The analysis is prescribed for the following indications:

• menstrual disorders;
• infertility;
• the presence of hormone-producing tumors;
• osteoporosis;
• sexual infantilism;
• acne;
• obesity or underweight;
• feminization (applies to men);
• polycystic ovary syndrome.

Correction of estrogen levels

Treatment for estrogen imbalance varies, and of course depends on the levels of these hormones (high numbers or low). Before starting treatment for estrogen deficiency or excess, the cause that led to this or that disorder should be established. General recommendations for women, regardless of estrogen levels:

• normalization of the daily routine and sleep (sleep should be complete, and the daily routine should be orderly and constant);
• normalization of nutrition (food should be varied, regular and rich in vitamins, if possible, adhere to a healthy diet);
• rejection of bad habits;
• taking medications only when necessary and after consulting a doctor;
• maintaining regular sex life;
• correction of common chronic diseases;
• aromatherapy (cypress oil, rose geranium, basil, sage);
• normalization emotional state(avoid stress, do yoga and auto-training).

Increasing estrogens

Before starting treatment with estrogen drugs, you need to reconsider your lifestyle, give up severe physical work and diets for weight loss and introduce certain foods into the diet.

What foods contain estrogens:

1. Fruits:
   • melon;
   • grapes (any);
   • tangerines;
   • apricots.
2. Vegetables:
   • cabbage (especially cauliflower and broccoli);
   • eggplant;
   • pumpkin;
   • tomatoes;
   • carrots (preferably fresh).

What other foods contain estrogens? The list is extensive:

• coffee;
• chocolate (but only black);
• high-fat milk and all fermented milk products;
• nuts and seeds (flaxseed, pumpkin, sunflower) are rich in vitamin E, which is necessary for the formation of estrogens;
• soybeans and products made from it;
• fish, meat fatty varieties;
• seafood;
• beer;
• red wine;
• dried fruits;
• cereal crops (wheat, oats, barley, rye);
• legumes (peas, beans, beans, lentils).

In addition, they contain estrogens and a number of medicinal plants, teas and decoctions of which must be consumed with a reduced content of these hormones:

• Linden;
• raspberry leaves;
• sage;
• arnica;
• pharmaceutical camomile;
• shepherd's purse;
• hop cones;
• sagebrush;
• mint;
• ginseng root.

Recently, the popularity of treating hormonal disorders with herbs such as hog queen and a red brush. Undoubtedly, these herbs are rich in phytoestrogens, but they should be used only on the recommendation of a doctor in compliance with a specific regimen (the regimen is different for each disease).

How else to increase estrogen in women? In addition to the consumption of the listed products and medicinal plants, the doctor will prescribe if necessary drug treatment. As a rule, this is estrogen in tablets. These include:

• oral contraceptives (Regulon, Silest, Lindinet and others) - contain not only an estrogen component, but also progestins;
• pure estrogens (microfollin, estradiol, tefestrol, menopur, presomen);
• hormone replacement therapy (estrogens prescribed for menopause): proginova, premarin, klimen, ovestine - vaginal tablets, klimonorm).

Reducing estrogens

If there is a high content of “female hormones” in the body, treatment is also necessary. To normalize estrogen levels, you must follow the following recommendations:

• normalization of work digestive tract(fighting constipation, consuming large amounts of plant fiber);
• weight loss (fat fiber is involved in the synthesis of estrogen);
• the use of phytoestrogens (they replace their own estrogens and reduce their synthesis): flax and sesame seeds, greens;
• refusal of canned food, fatty meats, sausages, coffee, beer;
• consumption of pomegranates and mushrooms (prevent the formation of estrogens from androgens);
• consumption of green tea (reduces the production of “female hormones”);
• giving up alcohol;
• eating foods high in sulfur, which normalizes liver function and removes toxins from the body: citrus fruits, garlic, onions and egg yolk;
• reception folic acid and B vitamins helps remove “female hormones” from the body;
• refusal of cow's milk and dairy products (replace with rice or coconut), as in cow's milk contains a large amount natural estrogens due to its collection from pregnant cows;
• playing sports.

Of course, when correcting elevated levels of female sex hormones, drug treatment with estrogens is contraindicated. The doctor will select and prescribe a specific drug with an anti-estrogenic effect:

• tamoxifen - the drug binds to estrogen receptors in target organs, thereby blocking the action of its own estrogens (prescribed for uterine or ovarian cancer, in case of anovulatory infertility);
• letrozole - suppresses the action of aromatase, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of estrogen (prescribed for breast cancer);
• Arimidex – aromatase inhibitor (antitumor drug);
• Femara – also inhibits the action of aromatase (an antitumor drug);
• clomed - binds to estrogen receptors, preventing their connection with their own estrogens.

Question answer

Question:
I am 5 – 6 weeks pregnant. The doctor ordered me to test for estriol, it turned out to be below normal. Why is it dangerous and does it need to be treated?

Estriol is an important hormone during pregnancy; its low content can lead to the threat of miscarriage, premature birth, fetoplacental insufficiency and the development of Down syndrome in the baby. Of course, treatment is necessary, but only your attending physician will select the appropriate hormonal drug and its dosage.

Question:
My husband has gynecomastia (so the doctor said). What does this mean, why is it dangerous and is treatment necessary?

Gynecomastia is the growth of mammary glands in men due to glandular tissue and is one of the signs of increased estrogen. In men of childbearing age, it can be observed when taking certain medications and with a number of diseases (thyrotoxicosis, hyperprolactinemia, and others). High levels of estrogen threaten the development of impotence and infertility. If necessary, the doctor will select treatment. If the high level of estrogen is caused by taking medicines, it is enough to cancel treatment with them.

Question:
I am 40 years old, six months ago I had my breasts removed due to breast cancer. The doctor prescribed tamoxifen. For what purpose and for how long should it be taken?

Breast cancer is an estrogen-producing tumor, which is why the doctor prescribed you tamoxifen (anti-estrogenic effect). The drug should be taken for a long time, at least 5 years.

Question:
My daughter is 14 years old. Not only does she not have periods, but her breasts are not growing and her hair is... armpits and on the pubis. What should we do?

Most likely, your daughter has delayed sexual development. You need to contact a gynecologist - endocrinologist as soon as possible, who will prescribe an examination (hormone tests), pelvic ultrasound, etc. Based on the examination results, the doctor will prescribe hormonal treatment. Don’t delay, otherwise your daughter will not be able to have children in the future.

Question:
I am 17 years old. I am unhappy with the size of my breasts (too small). Menstruation occurs regularly. Should I take some hormonal pills like estrogen to make my breasts grow?

What for? Not all women have large breasts. Here's the reception hormonal pills without certain indications, it can not only lead to disruption of the menstrual cycle, but also be complicated by infertility in the future.

Estrogen belongs to the so-called “female” hormones. Its production begins at puberty and is at its peak until the onset of menopause. This hormone is responsible for preparing the genital organs for conception, gestation and birth of a child, and plays a decisive role in the formation of secondary sexual characteristics and the regularity of the menstrual cycle.

Reduced estrogen negatively affects not only the functioning of the reproductive system, but also its appearance.

Causes of estrogen deficiency

The hormone is mainly produced by the ovaries and partly by the adrenal glands. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by a number of factors, including hereditary diseases. Weakening of the functioning of the ovaries that produce this hormone can be caused by the following reasons:

• Pituitary gland diseases leading to imbalance hormonal system(pituitary dwarfism, cerebral pituitary cachexia, necrosis of the anterior pituitary gland);
• sudden weight loss;
• alcohol abuse, smoking, drug use;
• the presence of hormonally dependent tumors;
• taking antidepressants or nootropic drugs;
• pathologies of the thyroid gland;
• self-medication with hormonal drugs;
• unbalanced diet, which is characterized by cholesterol and iron deficiency.

The decline in estrogen levels begins during menopause, which is natural process. Estrogen deficiency caused artificially after removal of the uterus and appendages is even more severe.

Predisposing factors to a decrease in hormone levels may be sedentary lifestyle life, or, on the contrary, increased physical exercise to which the body is exposed during swimming, figure skating, and gymnastics. Some strength sports require women to take testosterone-containing drugs. Excess male hormone suppresses estrogen production.

Violations hormonal balance often noted when following a vegetarian diet, when suffering from anorexia. In most cases, pathology is caused not by one, but by a combination of the listed reasons.

Symptoms of estrogen deficiency

During puberty

Low estrogen levels already appear in girls adolescence. Normally, the first signs of puberty should appear at the age of 11-12 years. The girl's mammary glands enlarge, a woman's figure develops, and pubic and armpit hair appears. An insufficient amount of estrogen manifests itself in the absence of these signs. In addition, in some cases, the growth and formation of mammary glands that have begun may slow down or even stop.

An important indicator of hormonal balance in girls is the regularity of menstruation. (first menstruation) usually begins at 12-13 years, and the formation of the menstrual cycle is completed by 15-16 years. With a lack of estrogen, menstruation begins later than 16 years, and sometimes is absent. In some cases, a girl develops a figure according to male type, which is characterized by a narrow pelvis, broad shoulders, and developed muscles.

On gynecological examination in such girls, the small size of the uterus and underdevelopment of the internal and external genital organs are determined. Hypoestrogenism negatively affects a girl’s ability to become pregnant and become a mother in the future.

It should be noted that insufficient breast growth, irregular menstrual cycle and other symptoms can accompany many other diseases. They do not always indicate low estrogen levels. If a girl’s sexual development is delayed, she should consult a gynecologist or endocrinologist, who will determine the cause and prescribe appropriate treatment. Independent use Medicines in these cases are unacceptable, since the girl’s hormonal system is still developing, and rough intervention can only complicate the problem.

During menopause

A natural decrease in estrogen levels is observed during the period. With their deficiency, inhibition of ovarian function occurs in early age 40-45 years, and sometimes earlier. In this case, doctors diagnose early menopause. Women complain of headaches and dizziness, hot flashes, increased heart rate, and sweating.

Changes in hormonal levels that begin at an early age lead to malfunctions of the ovaries and adrenal glands. A woman has an increased risk of developing diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, myocardial infarction, and thyroid diseases.

The average age of onset is 45-55 years. This category of women is characterized by the following signs of poor health:

• weight gain – due to insufficient activity of the glands internal secretion;
• disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system - bloating, dysbacteriosis;
• a decrease in the amount of collagen produced - causes the appearance of wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite, loss of skin moisture and elasticity;
• the appearance of a large number of papillomas and moles within a few months;
• violations cerebral circulation leading to strokes and heart attacks;
• increased heart rate;
• decreased libido, sensitivity of the genital mucosa, vaginal dryness.

Negative changes also occur in the psycho-emotional state of the fairer sex. Women experience deterioration in memory and performance, emotional stress, increased fatigue, irritability.

During reproductive age

Women of reproductive age are characterized by the following symptoms of estrogen deficiency:

• frequent diseases of the genital organs inflammatory in nature(colpitis, vaginitis), the disease is severe even with timely prescribed treatment and carries chronic nature;
• – menstruation becomes irregular (once every 2-3 months), while the discharge remains scanty and spotty;
• heavily leaking;
• the lack of lubrication secreted by the vaginal glands, necessary for the normal course of sexual intercourse, causes physical pain and moral discomfort;
• negative condition of the skin, noted peeling and increased dryness of the skin, the appearance of acne;
• a sharp decrease in performance, a tendency to depressive states, insomnia, increased irritability, aggressiveness;
• changes blood pressure, hot flashes, pain in the heart and joints;
• deterioration of the condition of nails and hair (fragility, split ends, loss).

Lack of estrogen almost always affects a woman’s morale. The feeling that she is losing physical attractiveness leads to sexual and psychological disorders, decreased self-esteem, and problems in relationships with her partner. An imbalance of the hormonal system provokes diseases of the urinary system, intestinal disorders, and vegetative-vascular disorders.

Hypoestrogenism in pregnant women

If the normal level of estrogen in a woman of reproductive age is from 12 to 190 pg/ml, then during pregnancy the hormone levels increase significantly. It is necessary for a successful pregnancy, normal functioning genital organs and fetal development. If it is lowered, this indicates the following risks:

• disturbances in the condition of the placenta, which can lead to it;
• threat of spontaneous abortion;
• development of Down syndrome and other genetic abnormalities in the fetus;
• pathologies in the functioning of the fetal cardiac and nervous system;
• uterine bleeding.

Consequences of estrogen deficiency on later pregnancy can manifest itself in the risks of post-term pregnancy, weakness labor activity at delivery. To increase their levels, the expectant mother is prescribed hormone replacement therapy and a special diet.

Diagnosis of the pathological condition

The listed symptoms are characteristic not only of estrogen deficiency, but also of other diseases. How to determine hormone deficiency in women? To do this, you need to take a blood test. Sometimes a urine test and follicle-stimulating hormone testing are additionally required. It is carried out some time after determining the level of estrogen. If their quantity is insufficient, FSH levels will also be low.

Hormone levels depend on the woman’s age. In children under 11 years of age, the norm does not exceed 5-22 pg/ml. In women of reproductive age, it depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle and ranges from 12 to 190 mg/ml. A sharp decrease in the amount of estrogen to 5-46 mg/ml occurs during menopausal extinction of the ovaries.

It is recommended to take a hormone test on days 3-5 of your period, but often doctors recommend an additional test on days 20-21 of your cycle. A few days before the test, it is necessary to exclude physical activity and not consume fatty foods, quit smoking and alcoholic drinks. Blood is donated in the morning, on an empty stomach. If a woman uses hormonal drugs for any reason, she should notify her doctor.

Treatment

Treatment for low estrogen levels is aimed at selecting medications, increasing its level. It should be noted that the choice hormonal drugs, dosage and regimen of use are carried out exclusively by the attending physician, taking into account the level of the hormone, the woman’s age, her state of health and individual characteristics. Thus, the regimen for taking hormonal drugs by women of reproductive age differs significantly from the regimen for women during menopause. Independent uncontrolled use of such drugs can cause irreparable harm.

In addition to drug therapy, the patient must be provided with conditions that will stimulate the body’s production of its own hormone. First of all, this concerns reviewing the diet and making adjustments to the menu. Widely used folk remedies: use of decoctions and tinctures of herbs.

In adolescents suffering from estrogen deficiency, hormone therapy, should be accompanied by physiotherapeutic procedures, moderate exercise, proper alternation of physical activity and quiet rest. If necessary, consultations with psychotherapists are prescribed.

Estrogen- a hormone, the synthesis of which in women from the moment of puberty and in the next 25–30 years remains at approximately the same level. Then its production gradually decreases.

Under the influence of estrogen, the formation occurs secondary sexual characteristics. With normal hormonal background, women have a proportional figure, skin no acne or other rashes, thin waist, steep hips, extra body fat are missing.

Lack of estrogen

This condition occurs as a result insufficient synthesis of hormones by the ovaries. The cause may be a hormonal imbalance (in particular, a disorder in the functioning of the pituitary gland) or age-related changes. Estrogen deficiency (relative and absolute) develops when estrogen production decreases or completely stops.

Menopause - physiological reason such a state. The cessation of ovulation due to age-related depletion of ovarian activity is genetically planned.

With insufficient estrogen production, girls who have not reached puberty experience general underdevelopment and no menstruation. If the pathology occurs after puberty, it occurs amenorrhea, small uterus and mammary glands, infertility.

Women who make enormous efforts to lose weight, getting rid of fatty tissue, will certainly encounter hormonal disorders . A decrease in hormone levels appears gradually, but immediately affects appearance and health.

Manifestations of estrogen deficiency are signs of menopause. Normally, it is observed at 45–55 years of age; with a decrease in hormone synthesis, such symptoms are observed regardless of age.

Visible symptoms of a lack of the female hormone estrogen

Signs of estrogen deficiency may manifest differently in women:

• concerns about pressure changes;
• rapid fatigue, loss of strength;
• rapid skin aging;
• sagging breasts.

Weight gain

Impaired estrogen synthesis is accompanied by insufficient or increased activity of the endocrine glands(one or more). In internal organs And abdominal cavity More fat begins to form. The waist gradually disappears, and fat deposits appear on it. Slenderness disappears.

In some cases, body weight increases as a result increasing levels of “bad” cholesterol, which leads, in addition to obesity, to heart disease.

Bloating

Digestive disorders, which occurs with estrogen deficiency, causes bloating. This occurs as a result of the absorption of substances in the intestines (if they are deficient, the absorption process is disrupted and dysbiosis develops).

Wrinkles due to loss of skin elasticity

Lack of estrogen causes decreased collagen production in the skin. A decrease in estrogen levels does not leave its mark on the skin:

• it becomes thinner (looks like parchment), becomes flabby;
• loses moisture and elasticity;
• stretch marks form;
• wrinkles appear quickly;
• cellulite becomes noticeable;
• the youthful appearance disappears forever.

Skin aging processes associated with estrogen deficiency cannot be restored using treatments to smooth out wrinkles and moisturize the skin. Hardware or injection techniques do not always give the desired effect - the problem is inside the body, so it is required replacement therapy .

Peeling skin, brittle nails

Lack of estrogen production quickly affects the condition of the skin:

• peeling is noted;
• easily damaged (scratches remain);
• becomes thin.

As a result rapid calcium removal from the body, the fragility of the bones increases, they become thinner and become brittle nails, hair is thinning.

The appearance of papillomas, moles

Education for a short time (six months or a year) a large number of papillomas or moles(up to 20 pieces) indicates a lack of estrogen in the body.

Noticeable symptoms of estrogen deficiency

Main violations, developing with estrogen deficiency, are divided into 3 groups:

• acute neuro-endocrine- insomnia, sweating, hot flashes, memory impairment, deterioration in concentration, irritability, mood swings;
• intermediate, urogenital- urethral syndrome, decreased libido, genital atrophy;
• chronic disorders— osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Chronic disorders

Atherosclerosis can cause serious conditions: when the brain is damaged, cerebral circulation is impaired, memory loss, stroke, etc. When the arteries of the heart are damaged, atherosclerosis can cause a heart attack and severe angina. Severe estrogen deficiency accelerates the development of these processes.

Lack of estrogen synthesis leads to bone loss and development of osteoporosis. Inability to get pregnant in reproductive age may indicate low estrogen levels.

Tides

As a result of changes blood pressure hot flashes occur (as during menopause). A sudden feeling of warmth in the face, neck, chest lasts 3–6 minutes and is replaced by cold. May be accompanied by increased sweating, nausea, dizziness, and increased heart rate. Manifestations worse at night.

Hot flashes can be single or repeated up to 30–50 times during the day. Their duration sometimes reaches 1 hour. At such moments, the heartbeat may increase, a feeling of constriction in the chest, poor circulation in the extremities: a tingling sensation and a feeling of numbness may appear in the legs and arms. This functional disorders.

Continuous headaches

Headaches as a result of insufficient estrogen synthesis occur 2 types:

• ordinary (feels like a blunt hoop pressing on the crown area);
• tense (occurs in occipital region or at the top of the neck, worn stupid character, can go down to the shoulders).

Increased heart rate

Increased heart rate is caused by poor circulation as a result of insufficient estrogen production. Typically, an increase in heart rate is observed at the time of hot flashes. Increased heart rate increases the risk of heart disease, stroke.

Decreased sex drive

Estrogens are responsible for sexual attraction . Estradiol is the main one. It is its normal level that enhances sexual activity and promotes the desire for love.

As a result of decreased estrogen levels the genital mucosa becomes thinner, becomes more tender. This also applies to the clitoris; a tingling sensation may appear in this area, causing discomfort. In women of childbearing age, a lack of estrogen may be accompanied by menstrual irregularities, decreased libido, and painful menstruation.

If a woman is not sexually active, she begins to develop muscle contracture around the entrance to the vagina. During sexual intercourse, severe pain may occur.

During menopause reduced sexual desire noted as a result of increased vaginal dryness: discomfort appears during sexual intercourse, which reduces the desire to have sex.

Mood swings

It becomes difficult for a woman to relax, she feels constant emotional stress. There is a feeling of hopelessness, loss, desires disappear. This is due to a lack of estrogen. A woman with normal level There are no health problems with sex hormones (as a result of their high or low levels), she is friendly and calm.

Reduced estrogen levels affect changes, occurring in the mood:

• increased irritability;
• depression;
• low self-esteem;
• panic attacks;
• tears for no apparent reason.

Vaginal dryness

This symptom is important because estrogen levels affect the hydration and thickness of the squamous epithelium. With a low level of estrogen in the blood, the vaginal mucosa becomes thinner and dry. Due to the pain that occurs during sexual intercourse, there are problems in sex life (in some cases it becomes impossible).

The mucous membrane also becomes thinner urethra, therefore women are more likely to experience urinary tract infection.

For any manifestations of hormonal imbalance, you must consult a doctor for timely treatment. This will prevent the progression of the pathology. In each case, therapy is individually selected for the patient, self-medication is unacceptable.

What are estrogens? This is a group of women steroid hormones, produced mainly in the ovarian follicles. A small amount of estrogens is also produced in the testicular tissue in men, and in both sexes in the adrenal cortex.

The human body produces three types of estrogens:

• estradiol;
• estriol;
• estrone (or folliculin).

They play the main role in ensuring a woman’s sexual characteristics. It is thanks to estrogens that beautiful figure, clean soft skin, soft voice. This is the effect of “beauty hormones”.

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  The importance of the hormone for the female body

  The main purpose of estrogens is the formation of female sexual characteristics and ensuring reproductive function.

  Their active production begins during puberty. Under the influence of estrogens, secondary sexual characteristics develop:

  • hair appears under the arms and on the pubis;
  • mammary glands grow;
  • The uterus develops and menstruation begins.

  Estrogens are responsible for preparing the female body for motherhood and for the normal course of pregnancy and childbirth. In adulthood, women's regularity of menstruation, libido and general well-being depend on estrogen.

  In addition to affecting reproductive function, estrogens are responsible for the formation of bone tissue and are a natural defense against osteoporosis. Also depending on their number in adolescence growth depends. High level estrogen leads to early closure of growth zones in the tubular bones, as a result the girl remains short.

  Under the influence of these hormones, the exchange of certain minerals and salts is formed; fluid retention in the body, as well as the state of the blood coagulation system, depends on them.

  Estrogens have an anti-sclerotic effect: they reduce the level of total and “bad” cholesterol, protect blood vessels from atherosclerosis. This explains why women before menopause are less likely to have a stroke or heart attack.

  

  

  Deficiency Symptoms

  In a teenage girl, a lack of estrogen is characterized by a delay in puberty: sexual characteristics appear later, the onset of menstruation is delayed, the girl is taller, has longer arms and legs.

  

  In young women, a deficiency of sex hormones results in the inability to become pregnant. Other symptoms of hormone deficiency:

  • menstrual irregularities;
  • painful periods;
  • irritability;
  • swelling;
  • pain in the mammary glands;
  • change in appetite;
  • sleep disturbance.

  In adulthood, a decrease in hormone synthesis leads to menopause. Its symptoms are as follows:

  • Your periods begin to come irregularly, then stop altogether.
  • A woman may suffer from increased sweating, from "tides".
  • Libido decreases, problems with sex life begin.
  • The release of lubricant is reduced, which leads to painful sensations during sexual intercourse.
  • Increased nervousness, hysterics, insomnia, constant fatigue.

  Manifestations of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and osteoporosis often accompany natural menopause. Also, these symptoms almost always occur in young women with low level estrogen, for example, after surgery to remove one or both ovaries.

  

  

  Shortness of breath during pregnancy - reasons, what to do

  Causes of the phenomenon

  In addition to oophorectomy, problems with the production of sex hormones in young women can lead to some genetic diseases, thyroid diseases, radiation and chemotherapy.

  Very often, a deficiency of the hormone is observed in girls on a diet. Trying to lose weight, they limit their intake of fats, and sometimes completely remove them from their diet. But cholesterol is the basis for the production of all hormones in the body. As a result, not only skin problems appear - dryness, sagging, acne, but also menstruation may stop.

  

  Too much physical activity can disrupt hormone production. Overwork or excessive training, especially during puberty, can lead to very unpleasant consequences for women, including infertility. If a woman has used it for a long time oral contraceptives, which include estradiol, the body can “get lazy” and reduce the production of its own hormones.

  Due to the refusal of animal foods - a source of fats - problems with hormonal deficiency often occur in vegetarians. Smoking, alcoholism, drug addiction lead to a reduction in the production of hormones, so women with addiction to bad habits age earlier than those who lead healthy image life.

  In women over 40 years of age, the cause of a lack of sex hormones is age-related changes. Under their influence, the activity of the uterus and ovaries, which produce estrogens, is reduced - this is how menopause begins and menstruation stops.

  

  

  Negative consequences

  Delayed sexual development, weak skeleton - the consequences of a lack of estrogen during puberty. Main danger The problem that a lack of estrogen poses for women is infertility. Even if pregnancy has occurred, it can be interrupted different terms, because the elasticity of the uterine muscles also depends on hormonal levels.

  

  Lack of hormones negatively affects the condition of the entire reproductive organ system. Mastopathy, endometriosis, fibroids, uterine prolapse, ovarian cysts - these are far from full list diseases that can result from hormonal imbalances.

  Increased risk of developing tumor diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity, myocardial infarction, osteoporosis. Very unpleasant consequence- drying of the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and especially the vagina (this not only leads to problems with sex, but also causes involuntary urination).

  It is also of great importance for women that the body, deprived of hormonal support, ages. The skin becomes dry, flabby, wrinkled, and papillomas appear on it.

  

  How to restore the level?

  Treatment for reduced hormone levels is carried out by prescribing replacement therapy. Now there are many medications containing hormones. Depending on the specific circumstances, the doctor may prescribe Premarin, Hemafemin or Proginova. For complex treatment Preparations containing vitamin E are also prescribed.

  

  Taking pills is the most convenient way combating the lack of female hormones. There are also preparations in the form of patches, gels, creams, subcutaneous implants and vaginal suppositories are used.

  Increasingly, to restore hormonal balance, drugs and dietary supplements (BAS) are used that contain plant extracts with estrogen-like effects, as well as pantohematogen produced from the blood of female deer.

  Hormone replacement therapy is possible only under medical and laboratory supervision, taking into account contraindications, which are impaired liver function and hematopoiesis, hypertonic disease, tumor processes.

  

  Traditional medicine methods

  Herbalists mainly use beneficial features medicinal plants containing phytoestrogens. Herbs are used in the form of infusions, decoctions, and teas. Useful are hops, sage, raspberries (leaves), rowan (fruits), red clover, red brush, plantain, hibiscus and others.

  Of course, cooking and drinking is delicious and healthy Herb tea - nice way increase estrogen levels, but you must strictly follow several rules:

  1. 1. Drink tea with herbs in cycles: a month of intake - a month of rest.
  2. 2. Stop taking if alarming symptoms appear.
  3. 3. When using oral contraceptives, teas are contraindicated.
  4. 4. Do not under any circumstances drink the infusion of boron uterus herb - it reduces the level of estrogen.

  Meat, milk, and dairy products cannot be excluded from the diet. The fats they contain give required material for the production of hormones. These products will help the body recover own production estrogen.

  

  You can eat vegetables and fruits rich in phytoestrogens. Nuts, soybeans, beans, peas, all types of cabbage, apples, pomegranates, dates, flax-seed, pumpkin, carrots, tomatoes, green tea- here is just a small part of the list of these products. Soy is considered a “female” product that compensates for the lack of estrogen, but for men it is advisable to limit its consumption.

  Diverse and rich in vitamins menu will help you stay healthy hormonal background body. Estrogens are hormones responsible for youth, health and beauty of the female body. The lack of such important substances must be replenished in order to feel like a woman for many years - beautiful and desirable.