What is estrogen
Estrogen is commonly defined as "any family of steroid hormones that regulate and sustain female sexual development
and reproductive function". Estrogens are steroid hormones, made
primarily in the female ovaries and the male testes in humans and animals.
Known as the female hormones, estrogens are found in greater amounts in
females than males.
Why is estrogen important
These essential molecules influence growth, development and behavior (puberty) regulate reproductive cycles (menstruation, pregnancy) and affect many other body parts (bones, skin, arteries, brain etc.)
Modern scientists also define estrogens as materials that stimulate tissue growth by:
- Promoting cell proliferation DNA synthesis and cell division in female sex organs breasts, uterus)
- Promoting hypertrophy or increasing a cell size, such as which occurs in female breast and male muscle during puberty and initiating synthesis of specific proteins.
What are the consequences of estrogen deficiency
The major clinical consequences of the post-menopausal period may be attributed to the estrogen deficiency. The 'menopausal syndrome' refers to a group of physical and psychological symptoms commonly experienced in the climacteric period due to estrogen deficiency. But as these symptoms often predate menopause, they are also a result of relative estrogen deficiency as well as to fluctuating levels of ovarian hormones.
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