Navigating Postpartum Hormonal Changes: Understanding Low Estrogen Symptoms and Treatment Options
As women, we're accustomed to the ebbs and flows of hormones throughout our lives. Yet, the postpartum period brings a unique set of hormonal fluctuations that can catch even the most prepared mothers off guard. One of the major changes in the shift from extremely high levels of estrogen during pregnancy to very low levels in postpartum.
Understanding Low Estrogen Symptoms
Estrogen plays a vital role in various bodily functions, from regulating menstrual cycles to maintaining bone density and supporting vaginal health. During pregnancy, estrogen levels surge, contributing to the changes your body undergoes to nurture new life. However, once you've given birth, estrogen levels plummet, sometimes leading to a host of symptoms:
Vaginal Dryness: Decreased estrogen can result in vaginal dryness, making intercourse uncomfortable or painful.
Hot Flashes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels postpartum can trigger hot flashes, causing sudden waves of heat and sweating.
Mood Swings: Estrogen affects neurotransmitters in the brain, and its decline post-birth may contribute to mood swings or feelings of sadness.
Fatigue: Low estrogen levels can leave you feeling more tired and fatigued than usual, impacting your energy levels and overall well-being.
Joint Pain: Estrogen helps maintain joint health, and its reduction postpartum may contribute to joint stiffness or pain.
Muscle Weakness: Estrogen increases the collagen content of connective tissue and is an essential component of muscle tissue (muscle, tendon, ligament) for building mass and strength
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: the combination of dryness, weakness and fatigue can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction like pain with sex, incontinence and pelvic heaviness.
Treatment Options for Low Estrogen in Postpartum
Managing symptoms of low estrogen post-baby is crucial for your overall well-being and quality of life. Fortunately, several treatment options are available to help alleviate discomfort and restore hormonal balance:
Vaginal Creams or Moisturizers: In general your vagina is a self moisturizing organ, however with the hormone changes in postpartum you may need to use a pH balanced cream that acts as a moisturizer to improve dryness or discomfort. There are many are can be used both externally on the vulva and perineum as well as internally. Look for a cream that has natural plant based ingredients, the VMAGIC vulva balm is a great option! [no affiliation]
Vaginal Estrogen Therapy: For women experiencing vaginal dryness or discomfort, vaginal estrogen therapy, in the form of creams, rings, or tablets, can provide targeted relief while minimizing systemic side effects. However, it's essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, especially if you're breastfeeding.
Lifestyle Modifications: Simple lifestyle changes like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in phytoestrogens (found in soy products, flaxseeds, and whole grains), and engaging in regular exercise can help support hormone balance and alleviate symptoms. Learn more about foods that are pelvic floor friendly in my blog post.
Improving Circulation: Exercises that activate the muscles around the pelvis as well as promote blood flow to and from the pelvis and pelvic organs can help improve the hydration and healing of the pelvic tissues. Head to my Youtube channel to try out a routine!
Pelvic Floor Therapy: Pelvic floor physical therapy can address pelvic floor dysfunction resulting from hormonal changes postpartum, helping to alleviate symptoms like urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.
Navigating the hormonal shifts of postpartum life can be challenging, but understanding the symptoms of low estrogen and exploring effective treatment options can empower you to reclaim control over your health and well-being. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and seeking support from healthcare professionals and pelvic health experts can make all the difference in your postpartum recovery.