Estrogen is one of the key hormones that play an integral role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system. Estrogen is actually a group of related hormones, including estradiol, estriol and estrone.
What does estrogen do?
- Promotes the development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty - breasts, widened hips, pubic and underarm hair
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
- Thickens the endometrium (uterine lining) to prepare for pregnancy
- Keeps vagina lubricated and elastic
Where is estrogen produced?
The main sites of estrogen production are the
ovaries, adrenal glands and fat tissues. The ovaries produce estradiol, estrone and estriol. Production of estrogen follows a cyclical pattern and varies across the menstrual cycle under the influence of other hormones like follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Estrogen levels peak just before
ovulation, resulting in discharge of an egg from the ovaries. If pregnancy occurs, estrogen maintains the endometrial lining to support the pregnancy initially.
If no pregnancy occurs, estrogen levels fall dramatically leading to shedding of the endometrial lining (your period!).
Estrogen and menopause
As women approach menopause, ovarian function and estrogen production declines. This fall in estrogen levels leads to
menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes and more.
Hormone replacement therapy and medications can provide relief from these symptoms.
At
Hormone Care Center, we provide customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help ease menopause symptoms. Our expert physicians design personalized treatment plans comprising hormones like estrogen tailored to your body's needs.
We also offer packages for fertility treatments, PCOS, thyroid disorders and more! Book an appointment for a consultation today!