What is estrogen?

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What you need to know about the estrogen hormone

It is an important factor that directly affects hormonal balance in the body and our overall health. One of the prominent hormones in maintaining this balance is estrogen. Although estrogen is often associated especially with women’s health, it is present at certain levels in both women and men.

So, what is estrogen, and what functions does it perform in the body? The estrogen hormone can affect many different factors, especially the reproductive system, as well as bones, skin, and mood. In this article, we focus on estrogen and address the topics you are curious about, from the functions of this hormone to the symptoms that occur when an imbalance arises.

Estrogen is the more dominant sex hormone in women. This hormone is primarily produced in the ovaries and plays a crucial role in regulating the female reproductive system. In addition, the adrenal glands and fat tissue also contribute to estrogen production in small amounts.

This hormone enables many changes in the female body starting from puberty. It plays an active role in processes such as breast development, regulation of the menstrual cycle, and preparing the uterus for pregnancy. At the same time, estrogen is not only effective in the reproductive system but also influences bone health, skin structure, the cardiovascular system, and mood.

What does the estrogen hormone do?

Estrogen is one of the main hormones that affects many different organs and systems in the body, not limited only to the reproductive system. As mentioned above, maintaining the balance of this hormone is of great importance for overall health.

One of the most important functions of estrogen is regulating the female reproductive system. It ensures the healthy progression of the menstrual cycle, prepares the uterine lining for pregnancy, and plays an active role in ovulation. During puberty, it also contributes to breast development and the formation of feminine body contours.

So far, this may suggest that its effects are limited to the reproductive system. However, other key processes in which estrogen plays a role include:

It helps maintain bone density, so low estrogen levels may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
It may have a protective effect against heart disease by preserving vascular structure.
It supports skin elasticity and moisture balance, contributing to healthier-looking hair.
It plays a role in mood, memory, and overall cognitive functions.

In men, estrogen—present at lower levels—is important for bone health and the continuity of certain metabolic processes.

What causes excess estrogen?

Excess estrogen occurs when this hormone is present at higher-than-normal levels in the body and is usually associated with a disruption in hormonal balance. One of the most common causes is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone. Especially when progesterone is insufficient, estrogen becomes relatively dominant. The main causes of excess estrogen can be listed as follows:

Hormonal imbalances: Conditions such as menstrual irregularities and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect hormone levels.
Excess weight (obesity): Since fat tissue contributes to estrogen production, weight gain may increase hormone levels.
Birth control pills and hormone therapies: Hormones taken externally can raise estrogen levels.
Liver dysfunction: Since the liver is involved in breaking down hormones, dysfunction may cause estrogen to accumulate in the body.
Stress: Long-term stress can indirectly affect hormonal balance.

Excess estrogen is not a disease on its own. It usually occurs as a result of another underlying condition. Therefore, if symptoms are noticed, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the cause correctly.

What are the symptoms of excess estrogen in women?

Excess estrogen in women can manifest with various symptoms due to hormonal imbalance. Although symptoms may vary from person to person, they are often noticed through changes in the menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of excess estrogen in women include:

Menstrual irregularities (frequent, prolonged, or heavy periods)
Breast tenderness and a feeling of fullness
Bloating and edema
Weight gain (especially in the hips and thighs)
Emotional fluctuations (irritability, tension, sudden mood changes)
Headaches and migraine attacks
Oily skin and acne formation
Persistent fatigue
Sleep problems

These symptoms may also resemble other hormonal issues. If complaints persist for a long time or affect quality of life, it is important to consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the symptoms of low estrogen in women?

Low estrogen in women, like excess, can negatively affect various biological processes. Since estrogen deficiency can impact many systems, it may present with different symptoms, especially noticeable in the reproductive system, bone health, and skin.

Some of the prominent symptoms of low estrogen in women include:

Menstrual irregularities or absence of menstruation
Vaginal dryness
Decreased sexual desire (low libido)
Hot flashes and night sweats
Sleep problems
Mood changes (feeling depressed, restlessness, anxiety)
Dry skin and loss of moisture
Hair loss or thinning hair
Decreased bone density (risk of osteoporosis)
Fatigue and low energy

Although these symptoms are more common during menopause, they can also occur at different ages. If complaints persist, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and plan appropriate treatment.

How is excess estrogen in women treated?

The treatment of excess estrogen in women is planned according to the underlying cause. As mentioned earlier, this condition is usually not a disease on its own but a result of hormonal imbalance. Therefore, the main goal of treatment is to restore the balance between estrogen and other hormones.

General treatment approaches include:

If there are conditions such as PCOS, thyroid diseases, or other hormonal problems, they are addressed first.
Hormone-regulating medications or progesterone-based treatments may be used if deemed appropriate by a doctor.
Healthy nutrition, regular exercise, and weight control can positively affect hormonal balance.
Since the liver plays an important role in hormone metabolism, limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining a balanced diet are important.
Relaxation techniques and regular sleep may be beneficial, as long-term stress can affect hormonal balance.

In some cases, birth control methods or hormone therapies may also be preferred, but these must always be planned under medical supervision. Treatment is individualized and may vary depending on symptom severity. Therefore, if you have complaints related to excess estrogen, consulting a gynecologist is the right approach.

How to increase low estrogen levels?

In cases of low estrogen, treatment and supportive methods are planned according to the underlying cause. The primary goal is not only to increase estrogen but also to restore hormonal balance in a healthy way. Methods that may help support estrogen levels include:

Foods containing phytoestrogens—such as soy products, flaxseed, sesame, and chickpeas—can have estrogen-like effects in the body. Healthy fats like olive oil and avocado also support hormone production.
Moderate physical activity supports hormonal balance, but excessive exercise may lower estrogen levels in some cases.
Long-term stress can affect hormonal balance, so maintaining good sleep, practicing breathing exercises, and using relaxation techniques can be helpful.
Hormone therapies may be applied if recommended by a doctor.

In some cases, increasing estrogen levels may not always be necessary due to other hormonal issues. Therefore, if symptoms are present, consulting a specialist for proper evaluation and a personalized treatment plan is the safest approach.

What are the symptoms of excess estrogen in men?

Excess estrogen in men occurs due to an imbalance between testosterone and estrogen and may present with various physical or hormonal symptoms. As mentioned earlier, estrogen is present not only in women but also in men. Therefore, excess levels can affect male health as well. Some of the prominent symptoms include:

Breast enlargement (gynecomastia)
Decreased sexual desire (low libido)
Erectile dysfunction
Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
Decreased muscle mass
Fatigue and low energy
Emotional changes (restlessness, depressive feelings)
Problems with concentration and focus
Reduced body hair

These symptoms may resemble other hormonal imbalances. If they persist or affect quality of life, consulting a specialist to evaluate hormone levels is important.

How to reduce high estrogen in men?

Reducing high estrogen levels in men is planned according to the underlying cause. Main approaches include:

Maintaining weight control: Since fat tissue can increase estrogen production, losing excess weight may improve hormonal balance.
Regular exercise: Especially resistance training (weightlifting) supports testosterone levels and contributes to hormonal balance.
Improving diet: Avoiding processed foods and consuming balanced protein and healthy fats supports hormone metabolism.
Reducing alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can impair liver function and lead to estrogen accumulation.
Stress management: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, so proper sleep and stress control are important.
Medical treatment when necessary: Hormone-regulating medications may be used if prescribed by a doctor, but always under medical supervision.

In addition, certain medications or health issues, such as liver diseases, may cause high estrogen levels. Therefore, if one or more of these symptoms are present, consulting a doctor for proper evaluation is the safest approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What foods contain estrogen?

Foods containing estrogen do not directly contain the hormone but include plant compounds called phytoestrogens that can mimic estrogen effects in the body. Common sources include:

Soy and soy products
Flaxseed
Sesame and tahini
Legumes such as chickpeas and lentils
Whole grains
Nuts
Dried fruits

Can estrogen be high during menopause?

Estrogen levels generally decrease during menopause, so high estrogen is not common. However, it may occur in certain situations such as:

Obesity: Fat tissue contributes to estrogen production, which may increase levels after menopause.
Rare tumors: Hormone-producing tumors originating from the ovaries or adrenal glands may cause elevated estrogen levels.

What is vaginal estrogen?

Vaginal estrogen is a local treatment method where estrogen is applied directly to the vaginal area, usually in the form of creams or tablets. It is commonly used to relieve symptoms such as vaginal dryness and irritation, especially after menopause.

Unlike systemic hormone therapies, it mainly acts in the area where it is applied, helping reduce discomfort by improving vaginal tissue hydration.

Its use should always be planned based on a doctor’s recommendation, as the most appropriate treatment should be determined individually.

Does estrogen cause weight gain?

Estrogen alone does not directly cause weight gain, but it may contribute indirectly by affecting hormonal balance. Estrogen-related weight changes may include:

Increased fat accumulation, especially in the hips and thighs
Fluid retention and bloating, which may feel like weight gain
Increased appetite and changes in metabolism

On the other hand, low estrogen levels may also be associated with weight gain, especially during menopause due to a slower metabolism and increased fat percentage.

Does estrogen cause hair loss?

Estrogen is an important hormone that affects hair health. Although it does not directly cause hair loss, imbalances in estrogen levels can trigger it. If hair loss persists or worsens, it is recommended to consult a doctor to evaluate underlying hormonal causes.