105 - Beyond the Numbers: Understanding the Complexities of Hormone Therapy Surveillance

Most women don't really understand how hormones like estrogen fluctuate during their cycle. If you were to test a woman's estrogen, the level you would get would vary greatly depending on which part of her cycle she was in. Ovulation marks the peak of estrogen levels during the entire cycle.

At the same time, the level of estrogen at ovulation is dependent on the quality of egg that is released during her cycle. Further to this, normal levels of estrogen don't always reflect the optimal levels. This highlights the importance of data interpretation when your levels are being tested, especially if you don't feel well.

The lower your estrogen is, the higher your FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) will be. Put plainly, FSH is stimulated by the brain and helps your ovaries make estrogen. If FSH is low, this indicates normal ovarian function. FSH and estrogen should always be tested together because it gives you and your health provider a more panoramic view of overall hormone levels.

After the age of 50, FSH can be used as a reliable menopause indicator. When you're taking estrogen therapy during menopause, symptoms like hot flashes and fatigue can be drastically reduced. But other issues, like vaginal dryness and urinary tract infections, may persist at those moments when your estrogen is low. 

Pellet administration of estrogen therapy offers a more consistent release of estrogen, which helps you avoid other symptoms. Even in this case, your FSH levels should still be tested alongside your estrogen levels. Gathering this information will allow you and your doctor to figure out your optimal estrogen exposure.

 

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