Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

Low Estradiol And Depression In Women

Here are some interesting things you may never have thought of. There were some puzzling things for me during my career as an OBGYN. They were curiosities for me. Research in recent years has revealed the answers.

I wondered why there are three completely different times in a woman’s life when she is depressed for no apparent reason, it is mood-incongruent:

  1. premenstrual
  2. postpartum, and
  3. postmenopausal

During my residency, I figured out that they were all three times when the woman had low estradiol. But, estradiol isn’t an antidepressant, so why does it happen? Most antidepressants deal with the neurotransmitter serotonin. They are serotonin reuptake inhibitors. They allow the serotonin the brain makes to hang around longer and keep you happy. Recent research has shown, women’s serotonin levels in their brain follow estradiol levels. Low estradiol =low serotonin = depression.

The other funny questions I had were:

  1. Why do premenstrual women gorge on sweets/carbs, specifically chocolate? It’s universal! What is going on?
    and
  2. Why do men do so great on the Atkin’s Diet and women don’t?

Then research revealed that women make serotonin from carbs, men do not. When premenstrual girls are cramming carbs, they are treating their depression/low serotonin without knowing what they are doing. When men eat low carbs, they feel great and get skinny. When women eat low carbs, it has less of an effect and they feel like Hell because they are depressed.

Case solved. I just thought you ladies might find it interesting.

If your are in need of hormonal treatment please schedule an appointment with Dr. Riegel today by calling (888) 386-0237. 

You Might Also Enjoy...

The Secret to Revving Up Your Energy Levels

The Secret to Revving Up Your Energy Levels

Do you feel tired all the time? A medical reason could explain your fatigue, and it might be easier to solve than you think. Read on to find out more about common causes of fatigue.

5 Hormone Imbalance Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

An imbalance in your hormone levels can trigger a cascade of symptoms, which can be life-altering for some. Learn about five unusual symptoms of a hormone imbalance and why hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be the solution you need.
How Hormones Can Breed Anxiety

How Hormones Can Breed Anxiety

Hormones are crucial for biological functioning. Nearly every system in your body requires hormones to work properly, so it should be no surprise to learn that problems with your hormones can lead to psychological issues, too.
When to Worry about Low Libido

When to Worry about Low Libido

A low libido is nothing short of frustrating, especially when you don’t know why it’s low. Read on to learn more about what causes low libido in both men and women, and what you can do to help boost it back up.
A Closer Look at Your Metabolism Postpartum

A Closer Look at Your Metabolism Postpartum

Millions of women struggle with losing weight after giving birth and don’t realize their metabolism is to blame. Keep reading to get ahead of the curve and take control of your new health needs. 
Brain Fog? It Could Be Your Hormones

Brain Fog? It Could Be Your Hormones

If you're struggling with brain fog and aren't sure why, imbalanced hormones could be to blame. Please keep reading to discover the connection between hormonal imbalance and mental disruptions and how our team can help.