Estrogen is a group of hormones that play important roles in the female reproductive system and have other functions throughout the body. There are several different types of estrogen, including estradiol, estrone, and estriol.
In women, estrogen is primarily produced by the ovaries, although small amounts are also produced by the adrenal glands and fat tissue. Estrogen is responsible for the development and maintenance of female reproductive tissues, including the uterus, vagina, and breasts. It also helps regulate the menstrual cycle and plays a role in pregnancy.
In addition to its reproductive functions, estrogen also has other effects throughout the body. It helps maintain bone density, promotes cardiovascular health, and affects mood and cognition. Estrogen levels can fluctuate throughout a woman’s life, with the highest levels occurring during the reproductive years and declining during menopause.
Estrogen can also be used therapeutically, either alone or in combination with other hormones, to treat a variety of conditions, including menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, and certain forms of breast cancer. However, like all medications, estrogen therapy can have side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
