Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that is essential for sexual and reproductive development. It is primarily made in the ovaries in women and also produced in smaller amounts in fat tissue and the adrenal glands.
What are the main types of estrogen?
There are 3 major forms of estrogen in women:
- Estradiol - The strongest and most abundant form of estrogen made by the ovaries. It helps regulate the menstrual cycle and reproductive function.
- Estrone - A weaker form of estrogen made by fat tissue and adrenal glands after menopause when the ovaries stop producing estrogens.
- Estriol - The weakest estrogen that occurs in high levels during pregnancy. It helps support fetal development.
What are the functions of estrogen?
Estrogen serves many critical functions in women:
- Triggers puberty changes like breast development, growth spurt, body fat distribution
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
- Thickens the uterine lining to prepare for potential pregnancy every month
- Maintains female reproductive tissues like ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina and vulva
- Supports pregnancy by boosting blood flow to the uterus and fetal development
- Regulates calcium absorption and bone health
- Affects heart health by increasing "good" HDL cholesterol
Estrogen levels start rising during puberty, peak in the 20s during reproductive years, and then drop significantly during
menopause, usually in the late 40s or early 50s. This leads to symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes and osteoporosis in some women.
Many choose to supplement with
bioidentical hormones from clinics like Optimal Hormone Solutions which can help alleviate menopause symptoms and promote overall health and vitality during this transition. Their experts specialize in customized bioidentical hormone therapy including estrogen tailored to your unique needs.
What affects estrogen levels?
Many factors can impact your estrogen levels. Being overweight or obese can increase estrogen due to excess aromatase enzyme activity converting testosterone to estrogen in fat cells. High stress levels boost cortisol which inhibits estrogen production. Smoking, toxins and inadequate sleep also hamper hormonal balance.
In summary, estrogen is an integral multifunctional hormone that evolves and changes throughout a woman's lifecycle. Paying attention to lifestyle factors that influence your estrogen levels, and considering hormone therapy if you have pronounced menopausal symptoms, can help you stay healthier. Consult specialists like Optimal Hormone Solutions to develop the right estrogen support plan for your needs.