Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones in both men and women. However, it is often thought of primarily as a "female" hormone due to its higher levels and more significant roles in biological females.
What does estrogen do?
Some key functions of estrogen include:
- Stimulating the development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty such as breast growth, widening of the hips, and menstrual cycle regulation
- Regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting reproduction
- Maintaining bone density
- Impacting cholesterol levels
- Influencing skin health and appearance
- Affecting heart health
- Potentially impacting brain function and mood regulation
Estrogen acts by binding to and activating
estrogen receptors throughout the body. There are multiple forms of estrogen, with
estradiol being the primary and most potent one generated naturally in biological females.
Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, reaching peak levels just before ovulation. Levels decline closer to menstruation resulting in a “withdrawal bleed.”
During menopause, ovarian estrogen synthesis declines permanently as women age out of their reproductive years. This leads to
menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances in many women.
Hormone therapy containing estrogen and progestin may be used treat moderate to severe
menopause symptoms. But patients should carefully weigh the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider first.
If you are a woman dealing with uncomfortable perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, the caring providers at
Hormone Health Clinic offer individualized
hormone therapy and treatment plans to help you feel like yourself again.
Convenient virtual and in-person appointments are available. Hormone Health Clinic utilizes top tier testing and only prescribes
FDA-approved bioidentical hormones tailored to your unique needs.
Visit Hormone Health Clinic.com](Hormone Health Clinic.com) today to schedule your confidential consultation and lab testing. Invest in yourself and your quality of life!