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Why Is Estrogen Important for Women?

Estrogen refers to a group of chemically similar hormones, estrogenic hormones, and is responsible for the sexual growth and development of women. Estrogen is most abundant in women of reproductive age and is necessary for the reproductive process.

  1. Importance of Estrogen in Women

    • Estrogen travels through the bloodstream in women, binding to receptors on cells throughout the body. In addition to growth and development, estrogen affects metabolism, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, how female bodies use food, reaction to emergencies, and even food. Estrogen also regulates bone growth and cholesterol level.

    Estrogen for Reproduction

    • Estrogen forms primarily in the ovaries of pre-menopausal women. During the first part of the menstrual cycle, it controls uterine-lining growth. Estrogen interaction with progesterone makes ovulation possible. Once pregnancy occurs, estrogen plays an important role, stimulating the maturation of the fetus and making the placenta grow and function properly. Estrogen also causes changes in the breasts during pregnancy.

    When Estrogen Levels Drop

    • The decrease in estrogen just before a woman's period may prompt headaches. During perimenopause and menopause, the drop in estrogen contributes to hot flashes, breast tenderness, urinary stress incontinence, and mood swings. In addition, lowered estrogen after menopause causes bone resorption and deposition, in which more bone is broken down than is rebuilt. Hormone replacement therapy is an option for women with symptoms of low estrogen.

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