Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that is responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. Estrogen is produced mainly by the ovaries in women and plays a vital role at puberty and during the menstrual cycle.
There are three major forms of estrogen in women:
- Estradiol - The primary estrogen during a woman's reproductive years. Estradiol aids in the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation) and helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy.
- Estrone - A weaker estrogen that is produced by body tissues after menopause when the ovaries stop producing as much estrogen.
- Estriol - The main estrogen produced during pregnancy that helps the fetus develop.
Some key functions of estrogen in women include:
- Promotes breast growth at puberty
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
- Thickens the endometrium (uterine lining) to prepare for pregnancy
- Maintains bone strength
- Regulates cholesterol
Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout a woman's life during puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause.
Imbalances in estrogen can lead to issues like irregular periods, infertility, low sex drive, hot flashes, and osteoporosis later in life.
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