Dr. Irene Woo was recently quoted in an article written by Andi Breitowich for Women’s Health Magazine titled “Here Are The Top Signs Of High Estrogen – And What Underlying Health Conditions Could Be At Play.”

Whether at your annual physical or through one of the many direct-to-consumer companies offering lab tests these days, getting your blood work done can be an effective way to gain deeper insight into your health, especially if you have uncomfortable symptoms and can’t figure out the root cause. But if your panel comes back with something outside the normal range, like high estrogen, you understandably will have some questions!

Estrogen levels naturally fluctuate throughout your life, starting off low when you’re born, shooting up during puberty, and then eventually dropping after menopause. Estrogen levels change throughout the menstrual cycle, too, peaking during ovulation.

But, “generally, levels of estradiol (E2) between 30 to 400 pg/mL are considered normal during reproductive years,” says Irene Woo, MD, a reproductive endocrinologist at HRC Fertility. High estrogen is typically defined as “levels exceeding the normal range” for a specific age and menstrual phase, often accompanied by other symptoms, she says.

Treating conditions related to high estrogen involves a multifaceted and tailored approach based on the individual, so it’s essential to consult with a doctor to pinpoint the underlying cause, says Dr. Woo. If you are interested in learning more, please read the article in its entirety here.