Estrogen dominance occurs when there is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone. It is usually a progressive condition that develops as women move through their menstrual lives. Estrogen dominance can occur at any age but is more common when women enter their 30’s. This is due to anovulatory cycles. When a woman does not ovulate, her ovaries do not produce any progesterone. Estrogen unopposed by progesterone can cause the lining in the uterus to become abnormally thickened resulting in heavier periods, clotting and painful menstrual cramps. As women enter their 30’s, anovulatory cycles become more common, and symptoms of estrogen dominance become progressively more severe.
Estrogen dominance can occur in women who:
- Have had a hysterectomy
- Have had a tubal ligation
- Are taking estrogen
- Have irregular cycles
- Have polycystic ovarian syndrome
Symptoms of estrogen dominance include:
- Menstrual cramps
- Heavy periods with clotting
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Fibrocystic breast disease
- Premenstrual breast tenderness
- Premenstrual fluid retention and weight gain
- Anxiety, panic attacks, or depression
- Decreased libido
- Headaches