Estrogen Dominance and How to Counter Perimenopausal Struggles
Estrogen Dominance
and How to Counter Perimenopausal Struggles
Estrogen Dominance Can Affect Women and Men at Any Age
Estrogen dominance isn’t limited to women in perimenopause or menopause. It’s a hormonal imbalance that can affect women and men at any age. In younger women, estrogen dominance often results from lifestyle factors, stress, blood sugar dysregulation, toxins or the use of synthetic hormones (like those found in birth control pills), leading to an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone.
In men, estrogen dominance can be triggered by poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, or exposure to environmental toxins. High estrogen levels in men can lead to symptoms such as weight gain (especially in the abdominal area), fatigue, reduced muscle mass, and even gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue). Since estrogen and testosterone work in balance, an excess of estrogen can lower testosterone levels, leading to decreased libido and energy levels.
That said, women in perimenopause are particularly vulnerable to estrogen dominance due to the uneven decline in their sex hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone.
Why Women in Perimenopause are Facing Estrogen Dominance?
Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause, typically beginning in the early 40s, although it can start earlier for some women, as early as in 30s. During this phase which typically starts 5-10 years before the menopause, the levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate as the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. Paradoxically, women in perimenopause experience symptoms of estrogen dominance. This occurs because progesterone, which is essential in balancing estrogen, declines sooner and much faster than estrogen, leaving estrogen unopposed.
In perimenopause, women have much higher levels of estrogen in relationship to progesterone causing estrogen dominant state. There’s simply not enough of progesterone to counterbalance estrogenic effects on the body. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms, many of which are similar to those experienced by younger women with estrogen dominance, including:
- Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles can become shorter, longer, or irregular as hormone production fluctuates.
- PMS Symptoms: bloating, water retention, cramps, irritability, impatience, anxiety, headaches, migraine headaches, outburst of rage, extreme emotional sensitivity, panic attacks
- Breast tenderness, swelling or cysts
- Vaginal dryness and itchiness
- Weight gain and bloating: Estrogen excess can promote fat storage, especially around the abdomen, thighs, and hips.
- Mood swings and irritability: Changes in estrogen levels affect neurotransmitter function, which can lead to emotional instability, depression and anxiety.
- Hot flashes and night sweats: Estrogen dominance and fluctuations in other hormones can interfere with the body’s temperature regulation.
- Fatigue and brain fog: Many women in perimenopause report difficulty concentrating, low energy levels, and feeling mentally cloudy.
- Sleep disturbances: Hormonal changes can affect your ability to fall or stay asleep, leading to increased fatigue.
ESTROGEN DOMINANCE MANIFESTATION IN MANY COMMON, MODERN HORMONE IMBALANCES, DISEASES AND ILLNESSES
PROTECTIVE PROGESTERONE
Estrogen Effects
Progesterone Effects
As you can see from the table above, uneven decline of progesterone during perimenopausal years or insufficient ovulation (that leads to lowered/insufficient levels of progesterone) can have a profound effect on women’s health and well-being! Women with low progesterone are 5.4x more likely to have breast cancer and also experience a 10-fold increase in deaths from all malignant neoplasms, per this study! Even if you are still menstruating, you may still have insufficient ovulation!
For women in perimenopause, this imbalance can significantly affect their daily quality of life.
It also explains why symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia often worsen during this stage. While this issue affects women in perimenopause, it’s also worth noting that women of any age can experience estrogen dominance due to factors like poor liver detoxification, stress, and diet.
By the time women reach menopause, the ovaries stop producing significant amounts of estrogen and progesterone, leading to low hormone levels. While estrogen dominance tends to be more pronounced during perimenopause, many women in menopause in the Western world struggle with estrogen dominance due to xenoestrogen prevalence and exposure from environmental sources of endocrine disrupting chemicals. Excess weight that can start from hormonal imbalance can further contribute to estrogen dominance as the body produces estrogen, creating a double whammy in the perimenopause and menopause.
Estrogen Dominance: Beyond Sex Hormone Imbalance
Estrogen dominance extends far beyond the realm of sex hormone imbalances; it has widespread systemic effects. In my functional medicine practice, I often observe a link between estrogen dominance and hypothyroidism in clients. Estrogen dominance increases Thyroxine Binding Globulin (TBG), which, in turn, can promote hypothyroidism. Since the thyroid plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s basal metabolic rate—particularly in conjunction with cortisol—reduced thyroid function, or even subclinical hypothyroidism (a common condition, especially among women), can contribute to estrogen dominance. The result is a vicious cycle where both conditions exacerbate one another.
One of the hallmark symptoms of both hypothyroidism and estrogen dominance is weight gain or an inability to lose weight. Additionally, excess estrogen increases the risk of developing gallstones by increasing the hepatic secretion of biliary cholesterol, which, in turn, leads to hypersecretion of cholesterol into bile and subsequently to gallstone formation. Because of that, women are twice as likely as men to form cholesterol gallstones, per this study.
High estrogen state skews immune response for allergies and asthma. Per this study: 1) women taking hormone replacement therapy have significantly greater rates of asthma compared with matched controls; 2) 30–40% of the women with asthma have premenstrual worsening during phases of rapid changes in estrogen and progesterone concentrations. Both endogenous estrogens (produced internally) as well as xenoestrogens (coming from outside) including BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates play a role in asthma and other allergic disorders, per this study.
Ginny’s story beautifully illustrates the core principle of functional medicine: treating the person as a whole, rather than focusing on isolated symptoms. Unlike conventional medicine, which often approaches health issues in silos, functional medicine recognizes the chain of interconnectedness within the body. For Ginny, addressing her estrogen dominance wasn’t just about improving one symptom or system; it was about understanding how this hormonal imbalance was intricately linked to her type 2 diabetes, gallstone formation, metabolic and overall health.
Functional medicine dives deep into the root causes, exploring how all the systems and body’s biochemistry are all intertwined. By treating all the systems together—rather than separately—Ginny experienced not just relief from gallbladder pain and avoidance from the surgery, but improvements in blood sugar control, liver health, detoxification, hormone balance and much more. This whole-person approach not only helped her keep her gallbladder but also allowed her to achieve lasting wellness across multiple areas of her health. It’s this integrated approach that empowers clients like Ginny to truly heal, thrive, and regain control of their health in ways that conventional medicine often overlooks.
Estrogen Dominance and Skin Health
As I often say, the skin is a reflection of our internal health, and internal imbalances may often manifest on the surface of the skin. Estrogen dominance may often manifest as itching, rosacea, atopic dermatitis like eczema, but also acne. Estrogen dominance can impede the hepatic-biliary system, affecting the detoxification process, which is dependent on the bile flow. Skin rashes and itching, for example, can be early signs of detoxification and bile flow issues.
Ultimately, estrogen dominance is a complex condition that demands a comprehensive, whole-body approach. Addressing this imbalance can optimize thyroid function, support detoxification, and protect vital organs like the gallbladder, all while improving skin health and systemic wellness.
The Role of Environmental Toxins in Estrogen Dominance
Another factor contributing to estrogen dominance in both women and men is exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals or xenoestrogens—chemical compounds that mimic estrogen in the body and can either act as an estrogen, block estrogen receptor or interfere with estrogen metabolism and detoxification. Some of these synthetic chemicals include:
- industrial solvents/lubricants and their byproducts (polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
- polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs),
- dioxins,
- plastics (bisphenol A (BPA)),
- plasticizers (phthalates),
- pesticides (methoxychlor, chlorpyrifos, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)),
- herbicides (glyphosate),
- fungicides (vinclozolin),
- heavy metals,
- mycotoxins,
- pharmaceutical agents,
- personal care products,
- and even processed foods.
When these environmental toxins enter the body, they can bind to estrogen receptors, interfere with estrogen clearance and contribute to the hormonal overload. This effect is particularly problematic for women in perimenopause, as their bodies are already undergoing significant hormonal shifts.
You may think that you’re not really exposed to these chemicals however the truth of the matter is that these chemicals accumulate throughout the years. For example, if you get your nails done on regular basis, you’re exposing yourself to phtalates, a group of chemicals used as plasticizers to make nails less brittle and prevent cracking, on regular basis. Phthalates are also widely used as fragrance ingredients in cosmetics. Phthalate exposure has been associated with diabetes and insulin resistance, breast cancer, obesity, metabolic disorders, and immune disorders. Can you see the connection between the estrogen effects on the body outlined in the table above and these imbalances and disease dynamics?
Phthalate exposure has an adverse effect in child neurodevelopment, including autistic behaviours and lower cognitive and motor development.
Detoxification for Estrogen Dominance: Why It’s Crucial
Detoxifying your body of xenoestrogens (environmental toxins that mimic estrogen) and excess estrogen is an essential part of managing estrogen dominance and symptoms associated with estrogen dominance, especially during perimenopause and menopause.
A buildup of these substances can worsen estrogen dominance and contribute to a range of symptoms.
Detoxing harmful xenoestrogens is crucial for restoring hormonal balance and preventing estrogen dominance by supporting your liver’s ability to metabolize and clear excess estrogen from the body. This is true for both men and women. As I mentioned earlier, men can also struggle with estrogen dominance!
My 9-Day Functional Medicine Detox Program is designed to help eliminate these toxins (proven to be effective based on the Total Tox Burden Test results which will cover later), supporting the the liver and digestive system to clear out excess estrogen, xenoestrogens, endocrine disrupting chemicals.
9-Day Functional Medicine Detox Focuses On:
Reducing exposure to xenoestrogens
By eliminating processed foods, harmful chemicals, and synthetic hormones, you can decrease the toxic burden on your body.
Supporting liver function
The liver plays a crucial role in breaking down and eliminating excess estrogen. My detox program includes foods and supplements that support biotransformation (scientifically accurate word for detoxification) and elimination of endocrine disruptors, xenoestrogens and excess estrogen.
Restoring gut health
A healthy digestive system is essential for clearing toxins and xenoestrogens from the body. My detox program includes strategies to improve gut function and prevent estrogen from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream.
Below are Before and After Test Results Following Completion of My 9-Day Detox Program (light blue marker shows previous test results, dark blue marker shows current results after completing five rounds of my 9-Day Detox Program).
Natural Supplements for Hormonal Balance
Addressing estrogen dominance from the inside out is key to overall wellness. Supplementation can help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s detoxification processes with the 9-Day Detox Program. Here are some recommended supplements:
PMS Relief is incredibly beneficial for women dealing with hormonal imbalances and symptoms of estrogen dominance. It contains a blend of herbs like chasteberry, which helps support progesterone production, and dong quai, which has been traditionally used to balance estrogen levels. It has some other incredible herbs that supports hormonal balance which you can learn about in the product page here. The PMS Relief Supplement helps ease symptoms like irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness, making it ideal for women experiencing symptoms of estrogen dominance. But, in particular during the perimenopause.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for reducing inflammation and supporting overall hormonal health. Unique Verve Omega3 BioPure is a high-quality fish oil supplement that provides a potent source of EPA and DHA, both of which help balance hormones and reduce the effects of estrogen dominance. Omega-3s are also known to support brain function and cardiovascular health, which are crucial for women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms like brain fog, mood swings, and hot flashes.
Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids are vital for keeping the body’s membranes hydrated—this is particularly important for women going through perimenopause or menopause. During these stages, hormonal changes can lead to vaginal dryness, dry skin, and thinning membranes. Omega-3s help nourish and maintain moisture in the skin and mucous membranes, improving hydration and elasticity. This can significantly relieve uncomfortable symptoms like vaginal dryness and help preserve the skin’s smoothness and suppleness during hormonal changes.
Topical Solutions for Hormonal Skin Changes
For women dealing with thinning, sensitive skin due to perimenopausal or menopausal estrogen decline, Environ’s Filler Creme and C-Quence Defence Creme are excellent topical solutions.
Environ’s Filler Creme is formulated to restore volume and hydration to the skin, addressing the thinning and dehydration caused by estrogen decline. It helps plump up the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
C-Quence Antioxidant Defence Creme is designed to protect and fortify sensitive, reactive skin. This creme contains powerful antioxidants and emoliants to reinforce the skin’s barrier and improve elasticity. It also helps soothe irritation and reduce the effects of environmental stressors.
These products can be part of a broader skincare regimen aimed at maintaining skin health and radiance during perimenopause and menopause.
Essential Lab Tests for Managing Estrogen Dominance
24 Hour Urinary Hormone Metabolites Test provides a detailed and full picture of your steroid hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, as well as how well your body is metabolizing and clearing these hormones through the liver.
The Total Tox Burden is a simple and quick test that provides complete and comprehensive insight into the levels of heavy metals, mold toxins, environmental toxins, and endocrine disruptors/xenoestrogens in your body. Knowing your toxic burden is the first step to creating a personalized detox and wellness plan to achieve better health.
This test measures the level of toxins in your body, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are alow endocrine disruptors that can mimic estrogen and lead to hormonal imbalances. PFAS are used to make fluoropolymer coatings and products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. PFAS are found in the air, soil, and water, and in everyday consumer goods.
A Comprehensive Stool Test that evaluates your digestive function and the presence of any gut imbalances that may prevent proper detoxification of estrogen at the gut level. It can identify bacterial imbalances, yeast overgrowth, and markers of inflammation that interfere with hormone metabolism and clearance of xenoestrogens.
Personalized Support to Restore Hormonal Balance
If you’re struggling with the symptoms of estrogen dominance (women and men at any age), personalized support can make a world of difference. My Functional Medicine Program is designed to help you to address and reverse your unique hormonal challenges and body’s imbalances and dis-ease dynamics. By focusing on diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplements, we can create a plan that supports your overall well-being and helps you regain control of your health.
Take the first step today by signing up for my Functional Medicine Program to get personalized, expert support and reclaim your well-being and vitality.
As a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner my Expertise Encompasses:
- Immune System: frequent illness, UTIs, yeast infections
- Allergies, Asthma
- Skin Problems: acne, cystic acne, rosacea, dermatitis, ichthyosis, psoriasis, vitiligo, melasma
- Inflammation: arthritis, rhinitis, joint & muscle pain, migraines, headaches
- Sleep Problems, Insomnia
- Gut Problems: IBS/IBD, bloating, acid reflux, gas, constipation, diarrhea, parasites, fungal/yeast overgrowths
- Hormonal Imbalances: PCOS, PMS symptoms, weight problems/inability to lose weight, thyroid problems
- Hair Loss, Alopecia
- Sleep problems/Insomnia
- Mood Imbalances: anxiety, depression, irritability
- Metabolic Dysfunction, Type 2 Diabetes
- Optimizing Wellness for Successful Pregnancy
- Autoimmune Conditions
- Bone Health: osteopenia/ osteoporosis
- Effective Anti-Aging Strategies without Injectables with the inside-out & outside-in approach
- Detoxification of Heavy Metals, Mycotoxins, Environmental Toxins
- Reversing Breast Implant Illness
- Preparation for the Explant Surgery and Optimization of Wellness & Vitality Post-Explant
DISCLAIMER:
Information and content on this website is provided for information and educational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. No information offered here should be interpreted as a diagnosis of any disease, nor an attempt to treat or prevent or cure any disease or condition. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. Do not disregard, avoid, or delay obtaining medical or health-related advice from your healthcare professional. Always speak with your healthcare professional before taking any medications or supplements. Information provided on this website does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any professional affiliated with this website. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. I am not acting in the capacity of a doctor, licensed dietitian-nutritionist, therapist, or psychologist and will not diagnose, treat or cure any disease, condition or other physical or mental ailment of the human body. Rather I serve as a mentor and guide who helps a client to reach her/his own health and wellness goals through implementing incremental, positive, healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes that help the client to live and thrive using simple methods.