Signs of Female Hormone Imbalance
Signs of Estrogen Deficiency
- Breasts lose fullness, begin drooping
- Skin dries out
- Foggy thinking (especially in the morning), confused, mildly depressed, just don't care
- Difficulty sleeping, restless, or night sweats
- Vaginal dryness, sudden urgency to urinate
- Anxiety/depression
- Decreased libido
Signs of Progesterone Deficiency
- Breast tenderness
- Insomnia
- Mild depression
- Menstrual cramps
- Abdominal bloating
- Water retention
- Premenstrual mood swings
You may choose to apply the hormone cream to the mucous membranes of the labia and vagina where the hormones are well absorbed and will not accumulate. This method of application also delivers hormones to the bladder and vagina eliminating the need for separate creams.
Signs of Estrogen Excess*
- Full, painful, or growing breasts
- Fingers and ankles swell
- Feeling uptight, irritable, anxious
- Weight gain, hunger
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
*May also be signs of Progesterone Deficiency
Signs of Progesterone Excess (usually only seen in patients taking progesterone medications)
- Daytime somnolence (sleepiness)
- Low sex drive
You may increase or decrease the amount hormones as needed. This may be a very small amount (.05 gm or .05cc) if the cream is concentrated for mucous membrane application. You may want to consult with your compounding pharmacist.
Most hormone creams are balanced with regards to the estrogen/progesterone ratio. If you experience vaginal bleeding the estradiol may need to be decreased or the progesterone may need to be increased.
Remember, the amount of hormones you metabolize (use) is very dependent on exercise and activity. Diet is also critical to hormone balance. Eliminate the refined carbohydrates in your diet. Eat whole foods, fruits, and vegetables.
Chronic stress will make hormone balance impossible. Be aware of how stress affects your hormones and your health. You must play an active role in your medical care and health.
