Estrogen is one of the key reproductive hormones in the human body. It plays crucial roles in both women and men. Estrogen regulates many aspects of health, including:
With its wide-ranging effects, estrogen is considered a master hormone in the female body.
The main types of estrogen in women are:
Estrogen levels peak during the ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle. During pregnancy, estrogen levels increase steadily to help support the developing baby.
As women approach menopause, usually in their late 40s and 50s, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. This causes menstrual periods to become irregular and eventually stop. Other menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes result from this estrogen deficiency.
Some women take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with external estrogen to reduce unpleasant menopausal symptoms. Careful screening determines if HRT is appropriate. When taken early in menopause, studies show HRT benefits the heart, bones, and brain function.
For those seeking natural remedies during menopause or perimenopause, consult the hormone balance experts at Endocrine Wellness Center. Our integrative approach combines bioidentical hormones, nutrition changes, stress management, and targeted supplementation when appropriate. We develop fully customized treatment plans to help women thrive through the transition to menopause and beyond!