Estrogen is a category of sex hormones vital for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. While often considered a "female" hormone, estrogen is present and plays important physiological roles in both males and females. In females, it is essential for puberty, menstruation, fertility, bone strength, and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. There are three major types of estrogen: Estrone (E1), Estradiol (E2), and Estriol (E3), with Estradiol being the most potent and prevalent before menopause. Another type, Estetrol (E4), is produced only during pregnancy.
Estrogen levels fluctuate throughout a woman's menstrual cycle and decline significantly after menopause, leading to various symptoms like hot flashes and disrupted sleep. Imbalances in estrogen levels can result from various factors, including underlying health conditions, medications, and lifestyle choices. Both high and low levels of estrogen can have negative health consequences, including increased risk of blood clots and stroke with too much, and weak bones and menopausal symptoms with too little. Estrogens are also used in medications like hormone therapy and birth control.
