Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that play an integral role in female sexual development and reproduction. When we think of estrogen, we usually think of its role in puberty and regulating the menstrual cycle. However, estrogen acts on tissues throughout the body and is essential for many bodily functions.
What are the different types of estrogen?
There are actually three main types of estrogen in women:
- Estradiol - The primary estrogen during the reproductive years. It promotes the development of female secondary sex characteristics.
- Estrone - Levels of this estrogen rise after menopause. It plays a lesser role than estradiol.
- Estriol - The weakest of the three estrogens, it's produced during pregnancy.
What are some of the functions of estrogen?
Some of the main functions include:
- Development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty - breasts, body fat distribution, etc.
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle
- Maintains the health of tissues including skin, hair, nails, muscles, brain, etc.
- Protects bone strength by helping with production of bone tissue
- Affects heart health by helping regulate cholesterol
Estrogen levels that are too high or too low can result in issues like infertility, osteoporosis, and heart disease. This is why hormone balance is so important!
The experts at
Hormone Harmony Clinic can help diagnose and treat hormone imbalances through cutting-edge testing and personalized treatment plans involving
bioidentical hormones. Contact us today to learn more!
How do estrogen levels change throughout life?
Estrogen levels are low in childhood, then rapidly rise during puberty to support reproduction and fertility. Levels fluctuate throughout adulthood during the menstrual cycle. At menopause, estrogen levels start to decline as women stop having periods. However, the ovaries still produce some estrogen after menopause at lower levels.
Understanding your estrogen levels throughout life is key for health. Are you concerned about hormonal issues like infertility, low sex drive, hot flashes, or sleep issues? The
Hormone Harmony Clinic team is here to help! Call today to speak with our hormone health specialists.
In summary:
- Estrogen is an important female sex hormone that functions on reproductive tissues and throughout the body.
- It exists in three forms throughout the lifespan: estradiol, estrone, and estriol.
- Estrogen levels rise at puberty, fluctuate through adulthood, then decline at menopause but don't disappear entirely.
- Proper estrogen balance regulates menstruation, develops female characteristics, impacts bone/heart health and more!
Have more questions about your hormones? The medical providers at Hormone Harmony Clinic are hormone balance experts equipped with cutting-edge testing to get your levels optimized for total health. Reach out today!