From the Research
Increased estrogen levels in a 36-year-old woman can result from several causes, including obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), certain medications, liver disease, and estrogen-secreting tumors, as well as stress, thyroid disorders, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to environmental estrogens 1. The most common causes of increased estrogen levels in premenopausal women include:
- Obesity, as fat tissue converts androgens to estrogen through aromatization
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which disrupts normal hormone balance
- Certain medications like hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, or some psychiatric medications
- Liver disease that impairs estrogen metabolism
- Estrogen-secreting tumors of the ovaries or adrenal glands Other potential causes include:
- Stress, which can alter hormone production
- Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Exposure to environmental estrogens found in plastics and pesticides
- Certain dietary factors like consuming large amounts of soy products or flaxseeds, which contain phytoestrogens It is essential to note that the provided evidence, such as the study on aromatase inhibitors in postmenopausal women with breast cancer 2, may not be directly applicable to a 36-year-old woman, but it highlights the importance of considering the underlying causes of increased estrogen levels and the potential risks and benefits of hormone therapy 3. Medical evaluation is recommended to determine the specific cause and appropriate treatment for increased estrogen levels, as symptoms such as heavy periods, breast tenderness, mood swings, or weight gain can significantly impact quality of life 1.