Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that play an integral role in female sexual development and reproduction. It is primarily responsible for development of what we typically associate with feminine characteristics.
Some key points about estrogen:
- Estrogen is produced mainly by the ovaries. It also produced in small amounts by other tissues like fat cells and adrenal glands.
- There are actually 3 main types of estrogen - estradiol, estriol, and estrone. Estradiol is the primary estrogen during reproductive years.
- Estrogen levels peak during puberty and the reproductive years. Levels decline with menopause, which usually begins in the late 40s or early 50s.
- Functions of estrogen include:
- Development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty - breasts, widened hips, pubic hair etc.
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle
- Thickening the endometrium (uterine lining) to prepare for potential pregnancy each cycle
- Maintaining bone strength and density
- Estrogen works together with other hormones like progesterone to regulate the female reproductive system.
So in summary, estrogen is an essential sex hormone for puberty, menstruation, and fertility in females. Declining estrogen levels later in life can lead to issues like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis for some women.
If you're experiencing
menopause symptoms or need to understand your hormone levels better, consider contacting a hormone health clinic like Vitality Hormone Clinic! They offer state-of-the-art
hormone testing and
estrogen therapy options from top specialists in women's health and can help you balance your estrogen levels.