06 November, 2025 | Holy Winter - Healthcare Writer
When most women think about low estrogen, they immediately picture hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats. However, estrogen influences far more than just your menstrual cycle or temperature regulation. In fact, there are several weird symptoms of low estrogen that many women don’t realise are linked to hormonal changes — especially during perimenopause or menopause.
If you’ve been feeling “off” but can’t quite put your finger on why, it may be time to look closer at your hormone levels. Today, the team at iQ Doctor take a look!
That odd pins-and-needles feeling in your hands or feet can sometimes be traced back to low estrogen. Estrogen supports healthy blood flow and nerve function, so when your estrogen levels drop, circulation and nerve communication can be affected — leading to a tingling or numbness sensation.
Known as “burning mouth syndrome,” this strange symptom can make your mouth feel hot, dry, or even taste metallic! Estrogen helps maintain saliva production and oral tissue health. When estrogen levels decline, dryness and sensitivity can set in - ultimately creating discomfort.
Some women describe brief, sharp “zaps” or shock-like sensations in the head or body before a hot flash. While not dangerous, these are thought to be caused by fluctuating estrogen levels affecting nerve activity in the brain.
Low estrogen reduces collagen and skin moisture, sometimes causing your skin to feel itchy or as if something is “crawling” beneath it. This sensation — called formication — is surprisingly common during menopause.
Estrogen acts as an anti-inflammatory hormone, so when it drops, joint stiffness and muscle aches can appear seemingly out of nowhere. Many women mistake this for arthritis, when it’s actually a sign of hormonal imbalance.
A change in body odour — even after showering — can be a weird result of low estrogen, but don’t fret - this is normal. Estrogen influences how your body regulates sweat and reacts to temperature changes, leading to stronger or unfamiliar odours.
Estrogen helps regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, and fluid levels in the body. When estrogen dips, some women experience dizziness or a lightheaded feeling — particularly during perimenopause.
Hormonal changes don’t just affect your skin and hair — they also reduce tear production. If you’ve noticed more dryness or irritation in your eyes, your estrogen levels may be a factor.
If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms, it may be worth discussing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with a healthcare professional. HRT helps restore estrogen balance in the body, which can:
If you notice ongoing or worsening symptoms of low estrogen, speak to a professional — especially if they interfere with your daily life. A simple hormone test or consultation can determine whether HRT or lifestyle adjustments may help restore balance.
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The most common symptoms include hot flashes, mood changes, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, and sleep issues. However, some women experience less typical symptoms such as tingling, dizziness, or itchy skin.
Yes. Although estrogen is higher in women, men also produce it. Low estrogen in men can contribute to fatigue, mood swings, and low libido.
HRT is generally safe for most women, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Your doctor will assess your medical history and risk factors before prescribing treatment.
Absolutely. Estrogen affects serotonin and dopamine — the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals — so a drop in levels can trigger mood swings, anxiety, or depression.
Many women notice improvements within a few weeks, but it can take up to three months for hormone levels to fully stabilise.
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