Why is this important?
Because as estrogen levels rise so do copper levels. If you don't have enough of a specialized protein (ceruloplasmin) to bind to the excess copper, then you get free roaming copper which causes serious oxidative stress.I think everyone knows that oxidative stress causes systemic inflammation in the human body and leads to multiple health conditions including: heart disease, cancers of all kinds and autoimmune conditions. Copper is a great conductor and affects our neurotransmitters or brain chemistry which can cause anxiety, panic attacks and depression.
If you have moderate to severe PMS, heavy menstrual cycles, fibroids, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, moderate to severe post-partum depression or psychosis, chronic fatigue and or adrenal fatigue - then you need to do a full hormone panel and check for copper levels. Unfortunately, these conditions get worse with each pregnancy and continue through menopause. This does not go away on its own.