Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that play an integral role in female sexual development and reproduction. It is primarily secreted by the ovaries and the placenta during pregnancy.
Some key facts about estrogen:
- It is responsible for development of secondary sexual characteristics in females during puberty, such as breast growth, distribution of body fat, and maturation of reproductive organs
- It controls the menstrual cycle, regulating the buildup and shedding of uterine lining
- It helps regulate cholesterol levels and maintain bone density
- Estrogen levels peak during the late follicular phase leading up to ovulation
There are three major forms of estrogen in women:
- Estradiol - The primary estrogen during reproductive years
- Estrone - Levels increase after menopause
- Estriol - Primary estrogen during pregnancy
What are the functions of estrogen?
Estrogen performs a wide array of critical functions in the female body:
- Works together with progesterone to regulate the menstrual cycle
- Stimulates endometrial growth and regulates the monthly endometrial cycle
- Contributes to calcium deposition in bones during adolescence, conferring peak bone density
- Regulates cholesterol production and provides some protection against cardiovascular disease before menopause
- Influences production of FSH and LH hormones that control ovulation
- Maintains the structure and function of female reproductive tissues
Effects of High/Low Estrogen Levels
Estrogen deficiency can lead to issues like infertility, irregular periods, early onset of heart disease, osteoporosis, etc. On the other hand, excess estrogen can result in weight gain, fluid retention, mood changes, fibroids, and increased cancer risk.
If you suspect hormonal imbalances causing distressing symptoms, get your hormone levels tested at clinics like Hormone Harmony Clinic that offer comprehensive hormone testing and customized treatment plans. Their board-certified doctors and naturopathic physicians can accurately diagnose and safely treat hormonal imbalances through bioidentical hormones, diet and nutrition planning, and lifestyle changes.
I hope this gives you a good overview of what estrogen is and its vital functions within the female body! Let me know if you have any other questions.