1. Your Period is MIA

One of the most prevalent ways to tell if your estrogen levels are imbalanced is if your period goes missing in action. On the other hand, if your menstrual cycle is heavier than usual, this can also be a red flag. When the female body isn’t producing enough estrogen, your period can stop or be inconsistent. If you notice you’ve been without a period for at least two consecutive months, or if your periods are becoming heavier, see a doctor immediately. This could be one of the early signs of hormonal imbalance that needs attention.

2. You’re Depressed

If you’re feeling blue on a consecutive basis, chances are you’re low in the mood-boosting hormone known as progesterone, which works in tandem with estrogen. Progesterone is often responsible for a healthy mood, heightened libido, and a sense of well-being. This is why during PMS, we often experience crying spells, or during menopause, we also experience the “weepies.” When this happens and your period isn't normal, it’s worth investigating your estrogen levels with a professional.

3. You’re Overly Anxious All the Time

If you feel like your nerves are constantly on edge, it could be estrogen-related. Sometimes, when estrogen levels are too high, we suffer from estrogen dominance, resulting in edginess, anxiety, and fatigue. Interestingly, your morning coffee and estrogen levels might be linked; some studies suggest that caffeine can influence how your body metabolizes hormones. If you're noticing coffee estrogen levels affecting your mood, it might be time to scale back on the lattes. This anxiety can also impact your rest, which we dive into in point 4.

4. You’re Not Sleeping Well

If you find yourself tossing and turning, it’s often hormonal. As the body loses estrogen towards the signs of menopause, it can decrease the sleep hormone, melatonin. Melatonin is crucial for regulating your sleep cycles and how easily you wake up. Low levels will have you peeking at the clock all night. Your weight, mood, and brain need good sleep to function at their peak level. Plus, sleep is vital for anti-aging!

5. Your Skin is Acting Up

Hormonal shifts can wreak havoc on your skin. When estrogen levels take a nosedive, it can result in an overproduction of testosterone, which triggers acne. It can also trigger symptoms of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), where the ovaries don't produce estrogen efficiently. This can result in weight gain, facial hair growth, and acne. If you’re unsure if you’re approaching menopause or concerned about your menopause age (sometimes searched as emitaz age), see your doctor to get your hormone levels tested.

6. Your Appetite is Up and Down

If your appetite is raging or null and void, it could be hormone-related. A lack of appetite often comes with depression and anxiety due to a drop in estrogen. Conversely, an increase in appetite can be a sign that your estrogen levels have increased. Striving for that perfect balance is important, and you can look for hormone-free forms of birth control if you’re concerned with weight gain. Here is a quick comparison of how estrogen affects your body:

| Symptom Type | Low Estrogen | High Estrogen | | --- | --- | --- | | Mood | Depression, "Weepies" | Anxiety, Edginess | | Skin | Dryness, Acne (PCOS) | Clearer (usually) | | Appetite | Decreased | Increased | Managing these fluctuations is easier when you know what to look for, especially regarding skin issues mentioned in point 5.

7. Hair Loss

If your body has stopped menstruating and you are also underweight or losing weight, you may suffer hair loss. This usually happens if estrogen levels take a nosedive, but could also be a sign of nutritional deficiency. If your hair is falling out, get your levels checked ASAP. Ensure you're getting enough nutrients like zinc, protein, and selenium. A diet rich in nuts, seeds, and antioxidants can help nourish your hair and hormones.

I’m sure many of you are familiar with at least one of these symptoms of estrogen imbalance. I feel like I could write a book on the issue, having been all around the block with my hormones and back! What I can tell you is that balance is possible, so long as you take care of yourself. Have you ever experienced an imbalance in your estrogen? For more information, check out official resources like the Mayo Clinic or the National Institutes of Health.