Contrary to popular opinion, researchers make it very clear that menopause does not mean an absolute end to estrogen production. Two other parts of the body besides the ovaries produce estrogen: the adrenal glands and the fat tissue. These, say author Sharon Gleason, "will maintain low levels of estrogens to minimize symptoms." 

Dr. John Lee states that a sign of estrogen dominance is weight gain caused by both water retention and fat deposition at hips and thighs. This is an interesting point, because he has found that many women wonder why they are gaining weight even though they are exercising and on a strict diet. One of his neighbors thought she had gained weight because she had given up smoking. At the same time, however, her doctor had put her on estrogen therapy for her menopausal problems, informing her (albeit incorrectly) that this hormone would be good for bone growth and make her feel a lot better. After talking to her, Dr. Lee finally determined that her accumulation of a middle aged spread could very well stem from the dual effect of her synthetic estrogen (prescribed alone) and the rapid drop in progesterone levels that accompanies menopause. 

Another case is highlighted in The Menopause Industry, by Sandra Coney. This woman was prescribed Premarin for her joint problems and pelvic inflammation, she began to put on weight "at an alarming rate" and was then switched to different forms of estrogen, including Estraderm patches and implants. The results were unfortunate, she had a 35 lb weight gain, fluid retention and breast discomfort.