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Oestrogen, also known as estrogen, is a hormone that is produced primarily by the ovaries in females. It is also produced in small amounts by the adrenal glands and fat tissue.
Oestrogen is responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.
What are the functions of estrogen?
Oestrogen plays a role in many important functions in the female body, including:
- Puberty and breast development: Oestrogen is responsible for the development of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and vagina. It also helps to develop the breasts and pubic hair.
- The menstrual cycle: Oestrogen plays a key role in the menstrual cycle. It helps to thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, oestrogen levels drop, which triggers the shedding of the uterine lining and the start of a new menstrual cycle.
- Fertility and pregnancy: Oestrogen helps prepare the body for pregnancy. It helps to thicken the lining of the uterus, make the cervix more receptive to sperm, and help to maintain a pregnancy.
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- Bone strength: Oestrogen helps to keep bones strong and healthy. It does this by increasing bone density and helping to prevent bone loss.
- Maintaining normal cholesterol levels: Oestrogen helps to keep cholesterol levels in check. It does this by increasing the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL).
- Cognitive function: Oestrogen plays a role in cognitive function. It helps to protect the brain from damage and improve memory and concentration.
- Heart health: Oestrogen helps protect the heart from damage. It does this by lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of blood clots, and helping to keep the arteries healthy.
- Mood: Oestrogen plays a role in mood. It helps improve mood and reduce the risk of depression.
- Vaginal health: Oestrogen helps to keep the vagina healthy. It does this by keeping the vaginal lining moist and thick.
- Skin health: Oestrogen helps to keep the skin healthy. It does this by reducing the production of oil and helping to prevent wrinkles.
How does oestrogen work?
Oestrogen works by binding to receptors on cells in the body. These receptors are found in many different tissues, including the reproductive organs, bones, heart, brain, and skin. When oestrogen binds to these receptors, it activates them and sends signals that cause these tissues to change in different ways.
Type of oestrogen and their functions
Estradiol: It is the most potent form of oestrogen. It is responsible for most of the reproductive and sexual functions of oestrogen.
Estriol: This is the least potent form of oestrogen. It is produced in large quantities during pregnancy and plays a role in the development of the placenta and fetus.
Estrone: This is a weaker form of oestrogen that is produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands. It is the main form of oestrogen in postmenopausal women.
What are the side effects of oestrogen?
The side effects of oestrogen can vary depending on the individual and the dose of oestrogen being used. Some common side effects include:
- Breast tenderness
- Mood swings
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Vaginal dryness
- Increased risk of blood clots
- Increased risk of breast cancer
In conclusion, oestrogen is a vital hormone that plays a role in many important functions in the female body. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of oestrogen before taking it. If you are considering taking oestrogen, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
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