Oestrogen: The Essential Hormone for Women’s Health

In this article, we take a closer look at what oestrogen is, what it does to your body and how levels change through different stages of life. We'll also look at some solutions to manage these changes so you can feel your best!

What is Oestrogen?

Together with progesterone, oestrogen is one of the two most important sex hormones in women. These hormones work together to maintain the body's balance and affect everything from reproductive function and bone density to mood and metabolism.

Oestrogen plays a crucial role in:

• Regulation of the menstrual cycle
• Development of female features like breasts and hips
• Maintaining bone density
• Regulation of cholesterol levels

There are three main types of oestrogen:

1. Oestradiol (E2): Dominates during the reproductive period.
2. Oestriol (E3): Increases during pregnancy.
3. Oestrone (E1): The main form after menopause.

How Oestrogen Changes Throughout Life

Puberty

During puberty, oestrogen levels begin to rise, leading to important bodily changes such as breast development and the start of menstruation. It's a time of rapid growth and development, thanks to oestrogen.

Reproductive age

Between the ages of 20 and 40, oestrogen levels are stable and fluctuate with the menstrual cycle. It helps regulate ovulation and prepares the uterus for pregnancy.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, oestrogen levels rise dramatically, especially oestriol (E3), to support fetal development and prepare the body for breastfeeding.

Oestrogen and Menopause

Around the age of 50, women enter menopause, which means that menstruation stops and oestrogen levels drop sharply. This can cause symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, irregular periods, reduced bone density and dry mucous membranes.

This period can be very challenging for many women.

READ MORE: Perimenopause: What Are the Symptoms?

Managing Changes in Oestrogen Levels

Fluctuations in oestrogen can affect everything from your mood, energy levels, sex drive and overall wellbeing. These changes are a natural part of life, but you don't have to deal with them alone.

Both low and high levels of oestrogen can negatively affect your health and well-being.

Here are some tips for managing these changes:

1. Diet and Exercise

A healthy diet and regular physical activity are essential to support hormone balance and women's overall health. Eating a nutrient-rich diet and minimising processed foods can help regulate oestrogen and benefit fertility, pregnancy and menopause.

2. Stress Management

Stress can have a significant impact on hormone balance and women's health. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can help stabilise oestrogen levels and promote wellness at different stages of life.

3. Hormone or Oestrogen Therapy

For women who experience discomfort due to fluctuations in oestrogen, such as those that occur during menopause, hormone replacement therapy may be an option.

4. Dietary Supplements

Taking supplements with vitamin B6 can also support hormonal balance and overall health.

Get in Balance With the 4HER

At 4HER we understand how important it is to keep your hormone in balance. That's why we developed a range of dietary supplements to support women.

4HER Hormonal Balance contains vitamin B6, which contributes to normal energy metabolism, and ginseng, which may help support physical and mental performance and counteract fatigue.

4HER Menopause is a combination of active ingredients, minerals, and vitamins to help you maintain balance during this transitional period of your life.