If you have irregular or missing periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, or low libido, your body may not be producing enough oestrogen. This can happen due to stress, undereating, over-exercising, or perimenopause.
Even if your testosterone levels have come back normal on a test, you could still have an androgen imbalance. Androgens are the group of 'male' hormones, which includes testosterone, but also DHEA and DHT. Androgens play a role in things like skin, hair growth, metabolism, and mood. This calculator uses 'testosterone' as the category because it’s the most well-known androgen, but it could be the other androgens causing your symptoms if your testosterone levels are normal. If your results suggest an imbalance, it may be worth testing your testosterone levels, as well as the other androgens like DHEA or DHT.
The DUTCH test is a much more detailed way to assess oestrogen levels when compared to a blood test because it doesn’t just measure total oestrogen—it also looks at how your body is breaking it down. It checks oestrogen metabolites, which show whether your body is clearing oestrogen efficiently or if it’s getting stuck, which can lead to symptoms like heavy periods, PMS, or bloating. This makes it a more complete and accurate test compared to standard blood tests.
These steps focus on nourishing and supporting the body’s ability to make and maintain healthy oestrogen levels. I help clients increase oestrogen naturally through my Balance Your Hormones Program by teaching them how to eat for optimal hormone production (including the right mix of fats, proteins, and micronutrients), how to support their gut microbiome (so oestrogen recycling works properly), and how to shift their workouts and lifestyle to prevent oestrogen loss.