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Functional Estrogen Excess

Meaning

Functional Estrogen Excess is a clinical state characterized by a manifestation of estrogen dominance symptoms despite circulating serum estrogen levels that may fall within the statistically normal laboratory reference range. This condition arises when the body’s biological response to estrogen is disproportionately high relative to progesterone, or when the clearance of estrogen metabolites is impaired, leading to prolonged receptor activation. It is a concept that moves beyond simple quantitative hormone measurement, emphasizing the functional impact of the hormone and its metabolites on target tissues. This state can contribute to symptoms such as premenstrual syndrome, breast tenderness, and altered mood.