Question 1

What is Estrogen Deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Estrogen deficiency occurs when the body produces insufficient amounts of estrogen, the primary female sex hormone. It is caused by menopause, premature ovarian failure, certain medications, or genetic conditions that affect ovarian function. The Estrogens (Total), Serum test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures all forms of estrogen in the blood.

Question 2

What causes estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Estrogen deficiency is caused by conditions that reduce ovarian function, including natural menopause (typically after age 50), premature ovarian failure (before age 40), surgical removal of the ovaries, chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and certain genetic disorders like Turner syndrome. Other causes include excessive exercise, eating disorders, extreme weight loss, and medications that suppress estrogen production. The pituitary gland disorders can also reduce the signals that tell the ovaries to produce estrogen, leading to deficiency at any age.

Question 3

What is the best test for estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

The Estrogens (Total), Serum test is the most important test for estrogen deficiency because it measures all forms of estrogen in your bloodstream, including estrone, estradiol, and estriol. This comprehensive measurement provides the clearest picture of your overall estrogen status and can identify deficiency caused by menopause, premature ovarian failure, or genetic conditions. Low estrogen levels detected by this test help explain symptoms like hot flashes, irregular periods, mood changes, and increased bone loss risk. Your doctor may also order additional hormone tests like FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) to determine the underlying cause of the deficiency.

Question 4

When should I get tested for estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent hot flashes or night sweats, irregular or absent menstrual periods (especially if you are under 40), unexplained mood changes or depression, vaginal dryness or pain during intercourse, or decreased bone density. Testing is also important if you have severe fatigue that does not improve with rest, difficulty concentrating or brain fog, or a family history of early menopause. Women experiencing these symptoms should not wait, as early detection allows for timely treatment to prevent complications like osteoporosis and heart disease.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Estrogen deficiency causes hot flashes and night sweats that can disrupt sleep, irregular or missed periods, vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex, mood swings, anxiety, and depression. You might also experience difficulty concentrating, memory problems, fatigue, headaches, and decreased libido. Physical changes include dry skin, thinning hair, breast tenderness or reduced breast fullness, and joint pain. Over time, low estrogen increases your risk of osteoporosis, making bones fragile and more likely to fracture.

Question 6

Who is at risk for estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Women approaching or experiencing menopause (typically ages 45-55) are at highest risk for estrogen deficiency, but younger women can also develop it. Risk factors include premature ovarian failure, surgical removal of the ovaries, chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer, eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, excessive exercise (especially in elite athletes), very low body weight or extreme dieting, and smoking. Women with autoimmune disorders, thyroid problems, or genetic conditions like Turner syndrome also face increased risk of developing estrogen deficiency at younger ages.

Question 7

What happens if estrogen deficiency is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated estrogen deficiency leads to progressive bone loss and osteoporosis, significantly increasing your risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist. It also raises your risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes, because estrogen helps protect blood vessels and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Chronic vaginal dryness can lead to painful intercourse and urinary tract infections, while persistent mood changes can develop into clinical depression. The quality of life deteriorates with ongoing hot flashes, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and reduced sexual function that strain relationships and daily activities.

Question 8

Can estrogen deficiency be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, estrogen deficiency is diagnosed with a blood test that measures estrogen levels in your blood. The Estrogens (Total), Serum test measures all forms of estrogen and is the primary diagnostic tool for identifying deficiency. Your doctor interprets the results based on your age, menstrual cycle phase, and symptoms, as estrogen levels naturally fluctuate throughout the month and decline with age. Additional blood tests for FSH, LH, and other hormones may be ordered to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Question 9

How is estrogen deficiency treated?

Accepted Answer

Estrogen deficiency is treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which provides estrogen through pills, patches, gels, creams, or vaginal rings to restore healthy hormone levels. Women who still have a uterus typically receive combined HRT with both estrogen and progesterone to protect against uterine cancer. For women who cannot take systemic hormones, local vaginal estrogen treats vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms without significant absorption into the bloodstream. Lifestyle modifications including calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercise, and a healthy diet support bone health. Your doctor customizes treatment based on your symptoms, age, health history, and personal preferences.

Question 10

How can I prevent estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot prevent natural menopause, you can reduce the risk of premature estrogen deficiency by maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition, avoiding excessive exercise that disrupts menstrual cycles, and not smoking. Eating a diet rich in phytoestrogens from foods like soy, flaxseeds, and legumes may provide mild estrogenic effects. Regular weight-bearing exercise and strength training help maintain bone density and overall hormonal health. If you require cancer treatment, discuss fertility preservation and hormone-sparing options with your oncologist. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and adequate sleep supports healthy hormone production and balance.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with estrogen deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches can provide mild symptom relief but do not replace medical treatment for estrogen deficiency. Eating foods rich in phytoestrogens like soybeans, tofu, tempeh, flaxseeds, and sesame seeds provides plant compounds with weak estrogen-like effects. Black cohosh, red clover, and evening primrose oil are herbal supplements some women use for hot flashes, though scientific evidence is mixed. Regular exercise, especially yoga and tai chi, helps reduce stress and improve mood while supporting bone health. Staying cool, dressing in layers, using fans, and avoiding triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can minimize hot flashes. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplements, as they can interact with medications and may not be appropriate for everyone.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Estrogen Deficiency Blood Test

What is Estrogen Deficiency?

What causes estrogen deficiency?

What is the best test for estrogen deficiency?

When should I get tested for estrogen deficiency?

References

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