Oestrogen 101: What You Really Need to Know

Oestrogen often gets a bad reputation, blamed for PMS, fibroids, or breast cancer. But the

truth? Oestrogen is essential for nearly every system in your body, from your bones and

heart to your brain, gut, and skin. Understanding it is key to managing hormonal

health—especially during perimenopause, menopause, or while on HRT.

The Different Types of Oestrogen

There isn’t just one:

● Estradiol (E2): Most potent, dominant before menopause.

● Estrone (E1): Weaker, produced in fat tissue, especially after menopause.

● Estriol (E3): Mild, important during pregnancy.

● Estetrol (E4): Produced by the fetal liver during pregnancy.

Each plays a role depending on life stage and hormonal needs.

Where Oestrogen Comes From

Premenopause: Mainly the ovaries, fluctuating with your cycle.

Postmenopause: Fat tissue, adrenal glands, and other tissues convert precursors

into weaker oestrogens. Even in small amounts, these help maintain balance.

Signs of Imbalance

High oestrogen: Breast tenderness, heavy periods, mood swings, bloating, weight on

hips/thighs.

Low oestrogen: Hot flushes, night sweats, brain fog, low libido, belly fat, bone loss, joint

pain.

Oestrogen Detox Matters

After oestrogen does its job, it must be safely eliminated. Poor detox can lead to:

● Build-up of harmful metabolites

● Hormonal imbalances and inflammation

● Symptoms like bloating, heavy periods, and weight gain

Supporting the liver, gut, and elimination pathways is key. Eat fibre, cruciferous veg, stay

hydrated, and nurture your microbiome.

Testing Can Help

Functional tests like the DUTCH test or stool analysis can reveal how well your body

processes and clears oestrogen, especially if you’re perimenopausal, menopausal, or on

HRT.

The Bottom Line

Oestrogen is vital, but balance is everything. Proper detox, gut support, and testing where

needed can help you maintain healthy levels, prevent unwanted symptoms, and support

overall wellbeing.