Estrogen throughout women's livesThe importance of estrogen extends to various stages of a woman's life.
Estrogen starts to rise during puberty when a series of events initiated by the hypothalamus stimulates the ovaries to begin estrogen production. Consequently, augmented production of sex hormones causes the first menstrual period - known as menarche - as well as breast and genital growth, weight distribution, body hair, and more bodily changes.
In general, the pattern of menstrual cycles should begin to normalize within the first few years of menstruation. However, identifying abnormalities during adolescence may prevent the future development of serious health concerns.
During the reproductive years, it supports normal development and functioning of the reproductive system, enabling pregnancy - estrogen prepared the body for ovulation and conception.
At the start of the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels rise as the ovaries produce follicles, each containing an egg. When estrogen peaks, it triggers a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), causing the mature egg to be released from the ovary (ovulation), getting ready for potential fertilization by sperm. During pregnancy, estrogen supports the placenta, aids fetal development, prepares the breasts for lactation, and regulates other crucial pregnancy hormones.
As women approach menopause, declining estrogen levels can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Additionally, the decrease in estrogen increases the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, making it essential to monitor and manage hormone levels during this transition.
Estrogen also works in harmony with other hormones, such as progesterone and testosterone, to maintain hormonal balance. Imbalances in estrogen levels can lead to irregular menstrual cycle (making it harder to conceive), health issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and breast cancer.
Understanding and maintaining this balance is crucial for overall health and well-being.References- Estrogen: Physiology and Pharmacology. - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1016/S1526-9523(02)00233-7
- Menopause and cognitive impairment: A narrative review of current knowledge - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8394691/
- Production and actions of estrogens. - https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra000471
- Risks and benefits of estrogen plus progestin in healthy postmenopausal women: principal results from the Women’s Health Initiative randomized controlled trial. - https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/195120