Hormones Explained: Estrogen for Women (and Men)

Reviewed by: Dr. Steven Knauf, D.C.

By: Donna Stark

A fact that might surprise you: Every human body produces estrogen. That means females and males rely on this powerful sex hormone for cognitive, bone, cardiovascular, mental, and reproductive health. And because it plays key roles in these (and other) vital bodily functions, it is essential to maintain normal levels for optimal health and wellness.

But where can one start? Hormones are a daunting subject, and understanding the role of estrogen is not as straightforward as placing a bandage over a cut. It requires time and dedication to dig deep. For men, that might mean overcoming the misconception that estrogen is a “women only” concern. While women produce more of this hormone, estrogen affects all humans. Embracing this knowledge is the first step toward understanding its importance.

What is estrogen?

Estrogen isn't just one thing -- it's a group of hormones the body produces. The ovaries are the main producers for women, but the adrenal glands and fat tissue chip in too. For men, the testes, adrenal glands, and pituitary glands are the main sources of estrogen. The three types of estrogen are estrone, estradiol, and estriol.

• Estrone: A relatively weak form of estrogen that becomes more prominent after menopause. When the body needs a stronger estrogen, it can convert estrone into estradiol.
• Estradiol: The most common and potent form of estrogen. It plays significant roles in sexual development, bone density, and cardiovascular health in both women and men.
• Estriol: The form of estrogen that increases just before and during a pregnancy. Estriol helps the woman’s body prepare for her growing baby.

It's important to note that estrogen and progesterone (another naturally occurring hormone) work seamlessly together to regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain reproductive health in women. In men, progesterone serves as a precursor to testosterone and plays a role in maintaining masculine characteristics.

The right balance makes all the difference in the world

Like most things in life, like your cream-to-sugar ratio in your morning cup of joe, things are good when your estrogen levels are just right. Cycles run like clockwork, moods remain steady, important functions operate smoothly, and body weight remains stable.

But what happens if something is off? For one, you will notice some specific symptoms. Symptoms of low estrogen for both women and men are combined in the list below.

• Decreased sex drive
• Weight gain, excess fat around the belly
• Mood swings
• Dry skin
• Increased bone loss, osteoporosis
• Sleep issues
• Vaginal dryness
• Menopause symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats)
• Delay in puberty and sexual development

Excess estrogen also comes with its own set of problems for women and men. Keep an eye out for these symptoms as well.

• Increased body fat, bloating
• Menstrual problems
• Mood swings
• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Decreased sex drive
• Headaches
• Infertility

Keep in mind that it is normal for estrogen levels to fluctuate throughout your lifetime. Puberty, aging, pregnancy, obesity, medications, eating disorders, extreme physical activity, and certain medical conditions can all leave their mark when it comes to your overall levels. However, it must be said that these hormone imbalances can significantly affect your overall health in the long term (such as increasing the risk of prostate and breast cancer), so don’t leave them unaddressed for too long. Speak to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about specific symptoms or health conditions you are experiencing.

It’s time to take care of your hormones once and for all

The good news is that you don’t have to suffer from the uncomfortable symptoms listed above. There are several things you can do that may positively impact the levels of estrogen in your body.

Treating with hormonal therapies

Hormone replacement therapy is an effective treatment for estrogen deficiency and consists of taking estrogen in one of the following ways.

• Pill or patch: Convenient and easy to take. Often less expensive than other options.
• Nasal spray: This is good for those who have difficulty swallowing pills. It can provide more consistent hormone levels throughout the day.
• Topical gel or cream: This is absorbed directly through the skin. It can be applied directly to problematic areas, and the dosage can be adjusted easily.
• Pellet injection: Provides consistent hormone levels over several months. Avoids daily medication routines.
• Skin patch: This delivers a steady dose of hormones. It is a good option for those who have trouble remembering daily medications and can be removed quickly if needed.

Each of the methods above has its benefits, and the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Hormonal replacement therapies may also require testosterone and progesterone, so be sure to work with a healthcare provider. Your doctor will help determine the right type and dosage of hormone therapy for your specific needs and health history.

Infusing a natural approach to your routine

You can also impact your estrogen levels with a more natural approach. Diet and daily exercise are key factors in hormone regulation. Be sure to consume more cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts), berries, fiber-rich foods, and green tea. It’s also important to keep your body in motion! Maintain a regular exercise schedule that includes at least two days of strength training. In addition to feeling better, those daily workouts will help balance out your hormones.

Establishing chiropractic care in your wellness journey

Routine chiropractic care at The Joint Chiropractic can also be an effective alternative to balancing out your hormone levels and boosting overall wellness. By aligning the spine and supporting the nervous system, your body’s ability to keep hormone levels in check may improve. As a result, you might find some relief from hormone-related symptoms and feel tremendously better overall.

Achieving more balance, joy, and comfort

Managing your hormones may seem like an uphill battle, regardless of gender. However, suppose you pay attention to what your body is trying to say, make lifestyle changes where needed, establish routine chiropractic care, and seek professional help for ongoing issues. In that case, you’ll be able to find a path that enhances your overall well-being and quality of life.

The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other material contained on this page, is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this post is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics, including but not limited to the benefits of chiropractic care, exercise, and nutrition. It is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your chiropractor, physician, or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this page.