Estrogen. Circulating estrogen can increase cortisol levels in your blood. This can be caused by estrogen therapy and pregnancy. A high circulating concentration of estrogen is the most common cause of high cortisol levels in women.

How does estrogen affect cortisol?

Oral estrogen preparations are known to increase CBG levels, thereby increasing total blood cortisol levels. As well as the potential physiological consequences of this, the increased cortisol affects assessment of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis.

Does estrogen help cortisol?

Hormone replacement during menopause can help reduce unwanted symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and other symptoms that can disrupt your life. However, studies show that estrogen may also play a key role in reducing cortisol, also known as the stress hormone.