Estrogen dominance (or dysestrogenism) occurs when our estrogen levels increase and become out of balance with our other reproductive hormones (like progesterone and testosterone). It’s a hormonal condition that’s becoming more and more common as a result of the many hormone-disrupting toxins we’re exposed to in our everyday lives. Many people are surprised to learn that estrogen dominance can occur in both women and men!
Also known as endocrine disruptors, a few of the hormone-harming toxins we’re exposed to through the products we use and the environment in which we live include bisphenol A (BPA), dioxins, perchlorate, perfluoroalkyl, phthalates, phytoestrogens, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and triclosan. They’re called endocrine disruptors because they do just that: disrupt the role of the endocrine system.
One type of endocrine disruptor — synthetic xenoestrogens — can even imitate estrogen, increase estrogen levels in the body, and lead to estrogen dominance over time. Other sources of excess estrogen include hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, excessive body fat, and even chronic stress!
Numerous health conditions are connected to estrogen dominance, from cancer and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to tumors and insulin resistance. Additionally, there’s a strong link between estrogen dominance and low thyroid function.
Let’s take a closer look at this link so we can determine how to best protect our thyroid, hormones, and overall health!
The Thyroid-Estrogen Connection
You may already know from reading my blog just how important the role of the thyroid gland is. If it produces too much or too little of the hormones triiodothyronine/T3, tetraiodothyronine/T4, and calcitonin, thyroid disorders and other health issues may develop. As a result, our metabolism, heart health, vision, skin, and sex hormones may be affected.
While estrogen is an essential sex hormone and low estrogen levels can also be problematic for both men and women, excess estrogen levels are sometimes to blame for the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This is because exposure to excess estrogens — including synthetic xenoestrogens, estrogen therapy, and birth control pills — cause the body to produce too much thyroxine-binding globulin (TGB). TGB is a key protein that T4 and T3 bind to so they can be stored and used when the body needs them.
When the body produces too much TGB, hypothyroidism (low thyroid function or an underactive thyroid) develops. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) develops when the body produces too little TGB. Bound thyroid hormones are inactive, which is why it’s so important to measure the amount of Free T4 and T3 in our blood: these are the hormones that are not bound and are available for the body to use.
Common Symptoms of Estrogen Dominance
Now that we’ve discussed the connection between low thyroid function and excess estrogen, let’s talk a bit more about estrogen dominance: the hormonal imbalance that occurs when our estrogen levels are out of balance with our other sex hormones — particularly progesterone. In her book, The Hormone Cure, Dr. Sara Gottfried states that more than 50 percent of women over 35 years of age have estrogen dominance, or high estrogen levels and low progesterone.
Some common symptoms of estrogen dominance include:
- Water retention.
- Breast pain.
- Painful periods.
- Endometriosis.
- Mood swings and irritability.
- Anxiety or depression.
- Brain fog.
- Sleeplessness.
- Facial redness.
- Tearfulness.
- Headaches.
- Hair loss.
- Decreased libido.
- The list goes on!
Protect Your Thyroid, Hormones, & Overall Health
Fortunately, balancing your estrogen and progesterone levels for better thyroid function and hormone health is possible. Hormone testing is a great place to start, as this can help you and your care team to get an accurate look at your estrogen (including estrone/E1, estradiol/E2, and estriol/E3), progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA levels. Some hormone tests may also look at your thyroid levels and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The DUTCH Hormone Test is our preferred test and the one Dr. Fox and I use as part of the Thyroid Reset Method™.
Along with hormone testing, Dr. Fox and I will collaborate on your care to help you balance your hormones through targeted supplementation, dietary modifications, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress reduction. Balancing your hormones and reversing estrogen dominance is a journey, and it’s one we’ll help you navigate so you can better protect your thyroid and hormone health for optimal physical, mental, and emotional wellness!
Are you experiencing symptoms of estrogen dominance and low thyroid function? The Doctor-Coach Model can help! Book your free 15-minute Discovery Call today.
