The female sex hormone estrogen is one of the main hormones that plays a crucial role in maintaining a woman’s reproductive system and overall health. During menopause, significant changes in estrogen levels occur, leading to a variety of physical and emotional changes.

The Role of Estrogen in the Body

1. Reproductive health:
   • Menstrual cycle Estrogen helps regulate the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for possible pregnancy.
   • FertilityEstrogen is essential for egg maturation and supporting ovulation.
2. Bone Health:
   • Estrogen helps maintain bone density by slowing down bone loss. Low estrogen levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
3. Cardiovascular health:
   • Estrogen has a protective effect on the heart and blood vessels. It helps keep vessels elastic and lowers cholesterol levels.
4. Skin and hair:
   • Estrogen helps maintain skin elasticity and hydration and supports healthy hair growth.
5. Cognitive function and mood:
   • Estrogen influences brain function and helps regulate mood. Low estrogen levels are associated with mood changes and memory issues.

Changes in Estrogen During Menopause

During menopause, the ovaries gradually reduce estrogen production, leading to a variety of changes in the body.

1. Perimenopause
   • During this transition period, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate. This can cause irregular menstruation and early menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Perimenopause may begin as early as the mid-30s and typically lasts 4–8 years.
2. Menopause
   • At menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly as the ovaries stop producing hormones. This stage marks the final menstrual period and the year following it. Menopause occurs on average around age 51.
3. Postmenopause
   • After menopause, estrogen levels remain permanently low. Symptoms may continue or become less intense, but low estrogen can impact long-term health, increasing the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.

Symptoms of Estrogen Decline in Menopause

1. Hot flashes and night sweats
   • Sudden sensations of heat and sweating caused by hormonal changes.
2. Vaginal dryness and discomfort
   • Reduced moisture and elasticity in the vagina, which may cause discomfort and pain during intercourse.
3. Mood changes and anxiety
   • Hormonal fluctuations can affect emotional stability and increase the risk of anxiety and depression.
4. Sleep problems
   • Low estrogen levels can lead to sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep and frequent awakenings.
5. Decreased libido
   • Reduced sexual desire and interest, often linked to hormonal changes and physical symptoms such as vaginal dryness.
6. Cognitive changes
   • Some women may experience difficulties with concentration, memory, and mental sharpness.
7. Muscle and joint pain
   • Hormonal changes can cause pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.
8. Headaches
   • Some women experience more frequent headaches or migraines during menopause.

Estrogen-Related Treatments During Menopause

1. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT):
   • HRT involves administering estrogen (sometimes combined with progesterone) to relieve menopausal symptoms and reduce long-term health risks. HRT can be provided as pills, patches, gels, or creams. Recent studies confirm that starting HRT early offers better results and is safer than delaying treatment.
2. Local estrogen therapy
   • Low-dose estrogen creams, tablets, or rings applied directly to the vagina to relieve dryness and discomfort.
3. Lifestyle changes
   • Healthy eating, regular physical activity, and stress management can help alleviate symptoms and support overall health.

Estrogen plays a vital role in women’s health, and the changes in estrogen levels during menopause can significantly affect quality of life. Consulting with a healthcare professional on oluline, et leida parimad viisid sümptomite haldamiseks ja tervise säilitamiseks menopausi ajal ja pärast seda.