What Are the Side Effects of the Depletion of Estrogen?

Estrogen depletion occurs when the body is not producing adequate amounts of the hormone, which happens for a variety of reasons. Many women experience a decline in estrogen production during menopause, which occurs naturally between the ages of 45 and 55 on average, according to Christiane Northrup, M.D. Women can also experience menopause before the age of 40, which is called ovarian failure, and women who have their ovaries removed will experience a sudden drop in estrogen levels.

Hot Flashes

• Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause and occur because of the depletion of estrogen. The sensation of body heat can be debilitating for some women. Those who experience a sudden drop in estrogen may experience stronger and more severe hot flashes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Vaginal Dryness

• Vaginal dryness is an uncomfortable symptom of declining estrogen levels. For women going through menopause, this also occurs when libido is diminished after menopause. These symptoms may go away after a time, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Fatigue

• Fatigue occurs in some women experiencing estrogen depletion. A loss of ambition also occurs with fatigue in these women. Women who are experiencing sleeplessness because of hot flashes and night sweats are likely to feel fatigued. Fatigue may also be a symptom of depression.

Depression

• Mood swings are common in menopausal women, but depression is likely to occur in the later stages, when estrogen levels are at their lowest, according to Christiane Northrup, M.D. Depression is a serious mental condition that may be helped with hormone replacement therapy.

Headache

• Women experiencing a drop in estrogen may have headaches, mental fogginess and dizziness. Women who go through natural menopause will continue to make estrogen, but in much lower amounts, according to Dr. Northrup.