Estrogen is one of the key hormones that contribute to sexual and reproductive development, mainly in women but also in men. It is responsible for the development of what we consider "feminine" characteristics.
Some key facts about estrogen:
- Estrogen is produced mainly by the ovaries in women. Smaller amounts are produced by other tissues like fat cells and the adrenal glands.
- There are three main types of estrogen - estradiol, estrone, and estriol. Estradiol is the primary estrogen during a woman's reproductive years.
- Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout a woman's menstrual cycle. They are highest right before ovulation, resulting in discharge, softening of the vaginal tissue, and thickening of the uterine lining.
- Estrogen promotes the growth of the uterine lining, breasts, and other tissues in the body. It's responsible for the distribution of fat in the hips, thighs, and buttocks.
- Estrogen plays a key role in the menstrual cycle. It causes the lining of the uterus to thicken in preparation for a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, estrogen levels drop, triggering menstruation.
- In puberty, rising estrogen levels are responsible for the growth of breasts and body hair, widening of the hips, and the start of periods in young women.
- Estrogen keeps bones strong and healthy. After menopause, dropping estrogen levels contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis in older women.
- Estrogen affects the brain and may influence mood, memory, cognition, and behavior. Declining estrogen after menopause has been linked to an increased risk of depression and dementia like Alzheimer's disease.
- Estrogen promotes thick, hydrated skin and hair. Skin becomes drier and hair becomes more brittle after menopause when estrogen levels decline.
So in summary, estrogen is an extremely important hormone that influences many aspects of health and well-being in women (and men). Maintaining balanced estrogen levels can promote reproductive health, bone strength, brain function, and more. If you have concerns about low or unbalanced estrogen levels, consider contacting our clinic. Our