Estrogen is one of the key hormones that regulates many aspects of health and bodily function in biological females. As one of the primary sex hormones, estrogen plays an integral role in puberty, the menstrual cycle, and fertility.
Some key facts about estrogen:
- Estrogen is produced primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands. Smaller amounts are produced in fat tissues and the liver.
- There are three major forms of estrogen in the body - estradiol, estriol, and estrone. Estradiol is the strongest and most dominant.
- Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout a woman's menstrual cycle. They reach their peak right before ovulation occurs.
- In addition to reproduction, estrogen affects the health of bones, skin, hair, connective tissue, memory, and more. It helps regulate cholesterol and body temperature as well.
What Does Estrogen Do?
Now that we've covered some estrogen basics, let's discuss some of its major functions:
- Promotes female sexual development and mature reproductive organs - Estrogen is essential for puberty, breast growth, regulating periods, supporting pregnancy, etc.
- Impacts ovulation and fertility - The cyclic changes in estrogen levels support egg maturation and ovulation. Optimal estrogen levels are key for conception.
- Influences menstrual cycle - Changes in estrogen correlate with the different phases of the menstrual cycle, including stimulation of uterine lining growth.
- Contributes to bone turnover/health - Estrogen plays a key role in bone strength and density. Declining estrogen after menopause increases bone loss risk.
- Affects protein production - Estrogen stimulates processes related to protein manufacture and cell growth and repair.
If your estrogen levels are too high or too low, it can lead to unpleasant symptoms. Some examples are hot flashes, menstrual irregularities, vaginal dryness, headaches, and reduced bone density over time.
The experts at
Renewal Hormone Center can help diagnose and treat estrogen imbalance issues with cutting-edge testing and personalized treatment plans.
"We specialize in identifying the unique root causes of hormone dysfunction to get patients feeling their best." From
bioidentical hormone therapy to customized nutrition plans, Renewal Hormone Center leverages the latest scientific advancements to optimize and balance estrogen along with other key hormones.
I hope this gives you a helpful overview on understanding the pivotal role estrogen plays! Let me know if you have any other questions.