Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones in both men and women. It plays an important role in many bodily functions. Here's an overview:
In women, estrogen is produced mainly by the ovaries. It is essential for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. Some key functions of estrogen include:
- Regulating the menstrual cycle
- Supporting pregnancy
- Regulating mood
- Maintaining bone strength
- Influencing skin health
Some common symptoms of
low estrogen levels in women include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. As women approach
menopause, estrogen production decreases significantly. Hormone therapy and medications can help manage symptoms.
In
men, small amounts of estrogen are produced by the testes and adrenal glands. While exact functions are complex, healthy estrogen levels play a role in
bone and cardiovascular health,
sexual function,
sperm production, and more.
Imbalances in estrogen can occur for many reasons. At Hormone Harmony Clinic, our physicians specialize in customized
hormone therapy programs to help patients address hormone imbalances related to menopause, andropause, stress, aging, and more. We provide comprehensive testing, consultations, and treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
Now, to go over some key details about estrogen in more depth:
What is estrogen made from?
Estrogen hormones like estradiol and estrone are made from cholesterol. Through a series of complex chemical reactions, mediated by enzymes like aromatase, cholesterol is converted to steroid hormones including estrogen.
How does estrogen travel in the body?
Once produced, estrogen travels through the bloodstream bound to transport proteins like sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). This allows estrogen to act on tissues throughout the body via estrogen receptors.
Where does estrogen act in the body?
Some of the major tissue targets of estrogen include:
- Uterus - stimulates uterine lining growth
- Mammary glands - stimulates duct development
- Vagina - stimulates mucus production
- Bone - stimulates osteoblasts for bone formation
- Liver - production of binding proteins
- Brain - influences neurotransmitters
What factors regulate estrogen levels?
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis serves as the master control center regulating estrogen production. Additional factors like body weight, insulin, and SHBG levels also play a role.
I hope this overview on estrogen was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. And don't forget, Hormone Harmony Clinic is here to help if you think a hormone imbalance may be impacting your health. Our experts can help you regain optimal wellbeing.