What is Estrogen Dominance Syndrome?

When you think of a decline in estrogen, what comes to mind? Chances are you think of the hallmark of menopause. However, it is quite common for women to experience surges of abnormally high levels of estrogen during the premenopausal and menopausal phases of their lives. Surges of high levels of estrogen are even common throughout the various stages of a woman’s life. Dr. John R. Lee has conducted extensive research on estrogen dominance syndrome. It is his belief that excess estrogen along with a progesterone deficiency is the root-cause of a number of female problems. With that being said, Dr. Lee is a pioneer in using natural progesterone to help combat the symptoms of estrogen dominance syndrome.

Estrogen can pose problems throughout a woman’s menstrual history. Young women, who suffer from estrogen dominance as they enter menarche, can find themselves struggling with extremely difficult periods. As a result, many physicians will place these girls on oral contraceptives to help regulate the frequency and severity of their symptoms.

On the other hand, some women begin to experience troubles with estrogen dominance syndrome, much later in life. This can be the result of diet, environmental factors, liver impairment as well the result of anovulatory cycles that occur before menopause — there are menstrual cycles were ovulation does not occur.

The following diseases and problems are also believed to be related to or affected by too much estrogen along with too little progesterone:

• Weight gain secondary to insulin resistance.


• Fibrocystic breast disease


• Particular types of PMS


• Migraines


• Menstrual disturbances — such as heavy or irregular bleeding.


• Endometriosis


• Fibroids


• Breast cancer


• Ovarian cancer

What Causes Estrogen Dominance Syndrome?

Aside from natural fluctuations of hormones during menopause, lifestyle choices and certain medical conditions can contribute to this condition. These include consuming a low-fiber diet, overloading the liver with internal toxins and absorbing environmental toxins.

• Low Fiber Diets. A diet that is low in fiber can cause estrogen levels to increase. On the other hand, a diet that is high in fiber can decrease a woman’s estrogen levels. Why you might be wondering? This is because excess estrogen is excreted in the bowel. When constipation occurs, estrogen is re-absorbed. Research has indicated that women who consume a high-fiber diet have lower estrogen levels. Lower estrogen levels means a decrease in estrogen stimulation of breast tissues. This can reduce the risk of a woman developing breast cancer.


• Overloading the Liver. The liver works to detox the body by protecting our bodies from the harmful effects of chemicals, food elements, environmental toxins and products that are the result of metabolism — which includes excess estrogen. Estrogen dominance syndrome can be the result of a woman exposing her body to too much alcohol, drugs or environmental toxins. Research indicates that urine estrogen levels can increase up to 32 percent in women, who consumed just two drinks a day. This also increases the risk of breast cancer in women who consume more than two drinks. However, the risk of osteoporosis is lower in these women.


• Our Environment. We live in an environment that is full of estrogen. PCBs, pesticides and DDT can cause estrogenic effects. Chlorine and hormones in meats as well as dairy products can produce similar effects. As a result, it is critical to incorporate a pure, clean diet that consists of organic foods when at all possible. This can help to cut down your exposure to harmful xenoestrogens.

If you think your diet may be causing estrogen dominance syndrome, it may be time to consult with a doctor, who recognizes estrogen dominance syndrome. Since estrogen dominance syndrome is not a standard medical diagnosis, you may to to consult an alternative medicine physician. A doctor can measure hormone levels in your blood or progesterone levels in your saliva. A doctor is likely to recommend:

• Increasing dietary fiber. Bowel regularity has been shown to ensure excess estrogen is eliminated from the body.


• The use of dietary supplements. Lecithin and L-taurine help to promote bile circulation, which is beneficial in enhancing estrogen’s excretion from your body. DIM and Calcium-d-Glucarate can help to deactivate toxic substances in the body and excess hormones. This helps to encourage elimination of toxic substances.


• Use of a natural progesterone cream. Absorbed through the skin, this cream can help to balance excessive estrogen.


• Aerobic exercise. Research indicates that physical activity can help to slow the overproduction of estrogen. However, it is important not to over-exercise. Exercising too much can stop your menstrual cycle and has the potential to lead to a condition known as the Female Athlete Triad.


• Optimize your weight. Having excessive body fat leads to the conservation of estrogen. As a result, overweight women are at a lower risk for osteoporosis but are at a higher risk for developing breast and uterine cancer.

What is Estrogen Dominance Syndrome?