Estrogen is one of the key hormones that regulates the growth and function of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. It is absolutely essential for several key processes in the body:
Where estrogen comes from
There are three main types of estrogen - estriol, estradiol, and estrone. It is mainly produced by the ovaries in women. Some quantity of estrogen is also produced in fat tissues and the adrenal glands. During puberty, estrogen production causes girls to go through major physical changes and develop a menstrual cycle. In a normal menstrual cycle, estrogen levels rise and fall throughout the month. This stimulates the lining of the uterus to thicken.
Estrogen's Effects on the Body
In addition to regulating the reproductive system, estrogen has several other effects on the woman's body:
As you can see, estrogen impacts many aspects of health in women. Monitoring your estrogen levels with hormone testing can identify imbalances early. For example, perimenopause symptoms, fertility issues or endometriosis may be impacted by low or high estrogen. Reach out to Harmony Hormone Care for comprehensive women's hormone testing, analysis and personalized treatment. Our experts help women of all ages address estrogen imbalance through natural solutions like diet, supplements or bioidentical hormone replacement therapy when needed. We are committed to your hormonal health and wellbeing!
Declining Estrogen Levels in Menopause As women approach menopause, the ovaries gradually make less estrogen and progesterone. Menopause officially occurs when a woman has gone 12 months without a period. The transition into menopause, called perimenopause, can last for several years with fluctuating hormones. Lower estrogen levels lead to symptoms like:
Additionally, the bone protective effects of estrogen decline after menopause. That is why women are at higher risk for developing osteoporosis as they age.