Disclaimer: Not everyone who goes through menopause identifies as a woman and not all people who identify as women go through menopause. At Jayla, our core audience is people who identify as women, so we primarily use the word “women.” However, we’re working on specific content for people going through menopause who might not identify women. Inclusivity is a key value of ours, so bear with us!
Welcome to HRT Explained, our mini-series dedicated to breaking down everything you need to know about hormone replacement therapy—minus the myths, confusion, and internet rabbit holes.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Wait, what exactly is HRT?” or “Why does everyone keep talking about estradiol vaginal cream?”—you’re in the right place. We’re here to give you clear, accurate information about hormones, menopause, and the science behind it all—so you can make informed decisions about your health.
First up: estradiol. It’s one of the key hormones in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but what does it actually do? Let’s dive in.
Estradiol, the strongest form of estrogen, plays an important role in women’s health, especially during menopause. As women approach and go through this significant life transition, understanding estradiol’s function and its changing levels becomes increasingly important.
Estradiol and Menopause
In this article, we use the term “menopause” colloquially, but just a quick reminder: menopause technically refers to the moment in time that marks 12 consecutive months without a period. Before that, when estrogen levels are fluctuating, it’s perimenopause, and after menopause, it’s considered postmenopause.
During perimenopause, estradiol levels become erratic and often fluctuating significantly. At menopause, estradiol levels drop significantly. This decline in estradiol is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with menopause.
Symptoms of Low Estradiol During Menopause
As estradiol levels fall, women may experience the following symptoms, among others:
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Mood swings and irritability
- Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
- Reduced libido
- Insomnia
- Dry skin
These symptoms can make the menopausal transition feel less like a “natural phase of life” and more like an unwanted rollercoaster ride.
Health Implications of Low Estradiol
Beyond the symptoms, the drop in estradiol during menopause can have broader effects on health including:
- Increased risk of osteoporosis
- Higher risk of cardiovascular disease
- Cognitive changes and impact on mood
It’s not just about hot flashes—this hormonal shift can quietly reshape your long-term health in ways that aren’t always talked about. From bone strength to heart health to how sharp you feel day to day, estrogen plays a bigger role than it gets credit for. And when levels start to dip, your body definitely takes notice.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
For some women, HRT may be recommended to alleviate menopausal symptoms. HRT involves taking bioidentical estrogen, and in some cases, progesterone, to supplement the body’s declining natural production. It’s important to discuss this treatment with a provider to assess its appropriateness and tailor it to your individual health needs.
Monitoring Estradiol Levels
During menopause, healthcare providers may measure your hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol to assess menopausal status, evaluate the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy, or investigate other health concerns related to hormone imbalances.
Lifestyle Factors Affecting Estradiol in Menopause
Several factors can influence estradiol levels in postmenopausal women, including excess body fat, stress, alcohol intake, and diet. Understanding these factors can help women make informed lifestyle choices to support their hormonal health during and after menopause.
In conclusion, the significant drop in estradiol during menopause is a natural part of aging, though it can come with its fair share of challenges. By understanding the role of estradiol and how its levels shift, you can navigate the menopausal transition more effectively. Working closely with your healthcare provider will help you manage symptoms and maintain overall well-being.
If you’re looking for expert guidance on HRT and menopause care, Jayla Health is here to help. Reach out to us at [email protected] to learn more about how we can support you or feel free to book an intro call using the link here.
