Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that is essential for sexual and reproductive development. It is primarily responsible for developing and regulating the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.
What is estrogen?
Estrogen refers to a group of hormones that play an essential role in female physiology and reproduction. The three major naturally-occurring forms of estrogen in women are:
- Estrone (E1)
- Estradiol (E2) - the predominant and most active estrogen
- Estriol (E3)
These estrogens are steroid hormones produced primarily by the ovaries. They bind to estrogen receptors in the body to regulate various biological processes.
Functions of estrogen
Some of the major functions of estrogen include:
- Development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty such as breasts, widened hips, a feminine pattern of fat distribution
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle
- Thickening the endometrium (uterine lining) during the menstrual cycle to prepare for pregnancy
- Maintaining vaginal health and lubrication
- Regulating bone formation and maintenance
- Playing a role in brain function, memory, cognition and mood regulation
At
Balance Hormone Institute, our experts can help diagnose and treat various hormone-related conditions in both men and women. We offer cutting-edge hormone testing and replacement therapies to help our patients regain optimal hormonal balance.
Estrogen imbalance
While estrogen is essential for female health, having too much or too little can cause issues:
- Low estrogen levels can lead to symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, changes in mood and cognition
- Excess estrogen has been linked to health risks like breast and endometrial cancers, blood clots, stroke, heart disease, and infertility issues
Some common causes of estrogen imbalance include primary ovarian failure, menopause, excessive stress, poor diet, endocrine disrupting chemicals and more.
At Balance Hormone Institute, we help women identify the root causes of their hormonal issues and craft personalized treatment plans. Our expert physicians stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in hormonal health to provide evidence-based care.
Conclusion
In summary, estrogen is an essential reproductive hormone that plays a vital role in female sexual development and regulation of the reproductive system. Having balanced estrogen levels is crucial for physical, mental and emotional health in women. If you suspect hormonal issues, consider getting tested by the experts at Balance Hormone Institute today!