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Hormones

High Estrogen vs. Low Estrogen Symptoms: What’s the Difference?

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund

High estrogen and low estrogen each have distinct symptoms, but some symptoms may occur with both. Here’s how to tell which signs may mean that your estrogen is high or low.

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Dec 14, 2024
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May 11, 2025
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High estrogen and low estrogen each have distinct symptoms, but some symptoms may occur with both. Here’s how to tell which signs may mean that your estrogen is high or low.

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High estrogen and low estrogen each have distinct symptoms, but some symptoms may occur with both. Here’s how to tell which signs may mean that your estrogen is high or low.

Estrogen is a key reproductive hormone. It helps regulate everything from your fertility, menstrual cycle, ovulation, and libido, to cognitive function plus bone, skin, and heart health.

But estrogen doesn’t work alone: it exists alongside other important hormones in a complex and exact balance. If estrogen increases or decreases in relation to these other hormones for extended periods of time, it could lead to high estrogen or low estrogen. 

Read on to find out what it means if estrogen is high or low, and what high estrogen vs. low estrogen symptoms may look like.

What does high or low estrogen mean?

Your body’s complex balance of hormones changes naturally over time. Estrogen (and other hormones) fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle and your lifetime—like in perimenopause, when estrogen levels decline.

Sometimes, though, estrogen levels may stay too high or too low compared to other hormones. When this happens, it can lead to a hormonal imbalance.

High estrogen may be a sign of estrogen dominance. Low estrogen may be related to an estrogen deficiency. 

Both high estrogen and low estrogen can cause particular signs and symptoms in your body. Some symptoms overlap and may occur with both high and low estrogen. Other symptoms are distinct to one estrogen state or the other.

High estrogen symptoms

If your estrogen is disproportionately high compared to your other hormones, you may be experiencing estrogen dominance. 

Here are just some of the signs and symptoms of high estrogen that you may have.

Irregular cycles and irregular periods

Estrogen plays an important role in regulating your menstrual cycle. That becomes difficult, though, when estrogen is out of balance with other hormones—particularly progesterone, which also regulates cycle function.

High estrogen can disrupt cycle function, leading to irregular cycles, changes in cycle length, and irregular periods. 

High estrogen can make periods:

  • Heavier or lighter in flow
  • Longer in duration
  • Irregular in cycle timing

Fertility problems

Estrogen also impacts fertility, and periods of infertility can be a symptom of high estrogen.

This is related to ovulation. Estrogen helps control ovarian function and trigger ovulation. High estrogen can lead to ovulation issues like anovulation—when you don’t ovulate and an egg isn’t released. 

Since you have to ovulate to get pregnant, prolonged periods of anovulation related to high estrogen can cause fertility problems.

More severe PMS and PMDD

When you have physical and emotional symptoms before your period, you’re likely experiencing premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some people may experience a more severe version of PMS called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

High estrogen can cause PMS and PMDD to worsen. Symptoms like cramps, nausea, headaches, back pain, mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of depression may become more severe.

Breast changes

Breast changes are another symptom of high estrogen.

High estrogen may stimulate the growth of breast tissue, which can cause noncancerous lumps to develop. This is a common condition called fibrocystic breasts. Fibrocystic breasts may feel lumpy and ropelike. 

Fibrocystic breast lumps are benign, and don’t increase your risk of breast cancer. However, it’s always a good idea to have your doctor check any new breast lumps.

In addition to fibrocystic breasts, high estrogen can also cause:

  • Breast pain 
  • Breast tenderness
  • Breast hypertrophy (excessive growth of dense and heavy breast tissue)

Uterine fibroids and polyps

Uterine fibroids and uterine polyps are noncancerous growths that can develop in the uterus. Both can be symptoms of high estrogen.

High estrogen appears to trigger uterine fibroid growth, and may increase the number and size of fibroids. Small fibroids may not need any treatment, but larger fibroids may require medication or even surgery.

High estrogen may also cause uterine polyps to develop. Uterine polyps are usually benign, but some may become precancerous. 

Your doctor can monitor uterine fibroids and uterine polyps to make sure you’re safe.

Other symptoms of high estrogen

High estrogen symptoms may also include:

  • Low sex drive
  • Fatigue
  • Increased feelings of anxiety or depression
  • Bloating
  • Weight gain
  • Sleep problems

Symptoms of low estrogen

If your estrogen is disproportionately low compared to your other hormones, you could have an estrogen deficiency.

These are some of the signs and symptoms of low estrogen that you may experience.

Irregular cycles and irregular periods

Irregular cycles and irregular periods may also be a symptom of low estrogen.

As you know, estrogen is a key player in cycle function and regularity. Like high estrogen, low estrogen can also impact cycles and make them longer.

Low estrogen can have a particularly significant effect on periods, making periods become increasingly irregular. Your period may come less often than usual and may skip some cycles. Your period may even stop altogether (this is called amenorrhea).

Hot flashes and night sweats

Hot flashes and night sweats (also called vasomotor symptoms, or VMS) are another symptom of low estrogen. 

Hot flashes are intense bursts of heat in the head, face, neck, chest, and upper back, sometimes accompanied by sweating, flushing, and an accelerated heartbeat. Night sweats (nighttime hot flashes) can lead to sleep disturbances and fatigue.

Hot flashes are thought to occur when low estrogen causes your body’s internal temperature system to become more sensitive to changes in external temperature. This can make your body overreact and send you blasts of heat in response to the slightest temperature changes.

Vaginal symptoms

Estrogen is crucial to vaginal health. This hormone helps keep the vagina moist, make vaginal lining thick, and keep vaginal tissue flexible and elastic. 

When estrogen is low, it can’t properly regulate vaginal health. Over time, low estrogen can lead to vaginal atrophy, a condition where vaginal walls thin and cervical mucus secretions decrease.

Low estrogen and vaginal atrophy can lead to vaginal symptoms like:

  • Dryness
  • Irritation
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Discomfort or pain during sex
  • Discomfort or pain while peeing
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Low estrogen vaginal symptoms can also lower your sex drive, since sex may be uncomfortable or even painful. 

Mood changes

Estrogen is an important element in how our brains regulate mood and emotion. That means that low estrogen can have an impact on mental health. 

In fact, low estrogen has been shown to contribute to mood changes and mood swings. You may experience changes in your overall emotional state, or swings in your feelings moment to moment.

Low estrogen may also cause increased feelings of irritability, sadness, and even depression.

Other symptoms of low estrogen

Low estrogen symptoms may also include:

What to do if you suspect high estrogen vs. low estrogen symptoms

If you suspect you may be experiencing an estrogen imbalance—whether related to high estrogen or low estrogen—talk to your doctor about your symptoms. They can help you get to the bottom of things and determine whether treatment is needed.

You can also test your estrogen levels at home to get a sense of your unique hormones. With at-home hormone tests like the Oova kit and app, you can measure and track your hormone fluctuations throughout your cycle, and easily share your individual data with your doctor.

High estrogen vs. low estrogen symptoms: The bottom line

When estrogen increases or decreases in relation to the other hormones in your body, you may develop an estrogen imbalance—and therefore high estrogen vs. low estrogen symptoms.

Symptoms like worsening PMS or breast changes may occur with high estrogen, versus hot flashes and vaginal symptoms with low estrogen. Some symptoms may occur with both estrogen states, like fatigue, weight gain, and changes to your menstrual cycle. 

If you suspect you may be experiencing high or low estrogen, talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Your doctor can help you understand what’s causing your high vs. low estrogen symptoms, and determine next steps.

About the author

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund is a writer, editor, and translator (French to English) from Brooklyn, New York. She has a BA in English and French Studies from Wesleyan University and an MA in Translation from the Sorbonne. She is passionate about literature, reproductive justice, and using language to make information accessible.‍

Sources

‍

https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

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