Fertility & Hormone: How High Levels Of Oestrogen & Progesterone Affect Women

Oestrogen and progesterone are two hormones that majorly affect the reproductive system of a woman. They work together to prepare the body for pregnancy. However, as their levels rise, it can cause more problems than benefits.

While there are no negative effects of high levels of progesterone, it is the oestrogen levels that can cause issues when you will try to conceive. We talked to Dr Sharvari Mundhe, Consultant Reproductive Medicine, Milann, Sarjapur, to understand how hormonal imbalance can be a major concern for women trying to get pregnant.

Why Do Oestrogen Levels Rise?

Among some women, the body might not make enough progesterone. This condition is called unopposed oestrogen. In the simplest terms, progesterone is the counter hormone, and in its absence, oestrogen levels rise.

This can lead to overworking of the hormone resulting in the overgrowth of certain cells. Polycystic ovarian syndrome or the pre-menopause phase can also lead to elevated levels of oestrogen.

Symptoms Of High Levels Of Oestrogen & Progesterone In The Body

When the levels of oestrogen become high in the body, you might experience the following symptoms,

• Weight gain
• Irregular periods
• Decreased libido
• Mood swings
• Bloating
• Menstrual cramps

High levels of oestrogen among non-binaries and transgender men can prevent them from looking in a certain way. Therefore, they go through hormonal therapy. In the worst cases, high levels of oestrogen can also lead to infertility.

Factors That Can Lead To Oestrogen Levels To Rise

Alcohol

According to a study published in the Cleveland Clinic, if you drink too much alcohol, the oestrogen levels will rise substantially in the body. Drinking reduces the body’s metabolism power.

Stress

Stress is another enemy of your body and can lead to high levels of oestrogen in the body. When you are under pressure, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. It reduces the production of progesterone, leading to exponential elevation in oestrogen.

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Medication

If you are someone undergoing hormone therapy, you should know that before creating hormonal balance, medication can shoot up the levels of oestrogen. This is a common issue if you are on birth control or high-dose oral contraceptive pills. The body needs time to adjust to dosages.

Body Fat

Obese people often struggle with metabolism because the fat tissue secretes oestrogen. Therefore, the more fat you have in your body, the more the level of hormones, making it difficult for you to conceive.

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How To Treat High Levels Of Oestrogen?

For serious conditions, you will have to consult a doctor and see if you need any medication. However, hormonal imbalance can be restored by making a few lifestyle changes. For example, you must eat healthily, exercise every day to maintain a healthy weight, reduce alcohol intake and meditate to reduce stress.