Estrogen is a key female sex hormone that plays various important roles in the female reproductive system and other parts of the body. There are three major types of estrogen:
- Estrone
- Estradiol - The predominant estrogen during reproductive years
- Estriol - The primary estrogen produced during pregnancy
- Development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty such as breasts, wider hips, a feminine pattern of fat distribution, etc.
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle - Estrogen levels fluctuate through the menstrual cycle and help control it.
- Maintenance of the reproductive system - Estrogen helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy as well as trigger ovulation.
- Bone health - Estrogen plays a key role in bone regeneration and maintenance of bone density. After menopause, dropping estrogen levels lead to accelerated bone loss.
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes or irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Accelerated bone loss
- Heart palpitations