Estrogen is one of the key sex hormones that is critical for both male and female health. This vital hormone is produced primarily in the ovaries in women and the testes in men.
What are the roles of estrogen?
Estrogen has many crucial functions in the female body. Some of the main roles include:
- Regulating the menstrual cycle
- Supporting pregnancy and fetal development
- Maintaining the health of tissues like skin, hair, nails, bones, heart, brain, etc.
- Regulating cholesterol and body fat distribution
- Influencing libido and maintaining vaginal health
In men, estrogen is essential for:
- Bone and joint health
- Fat distribution
- Sex drive
- Sperm production
- Other vital functions
What causes low or high estrogen levels?
An imbalance in estrogen can occur due to reasons like:
- Menopause
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Birth control usage
- Ovarian problems
- Testicular issues
- Various medical conditions
Abnormal estrogen levels can lead to unpleasant symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis, infertility, and more.
How is estrogen level tested?
A simple blood test can measure the level of estradiol or estrogen in the body. Doctors may order tests for:
- Estradiol - the main estrogen hormone
- FSH (follicle stimulating hormone)
- LH (luteinizing hormone)
- DHEA
- Testosterone
- and other related hormones
The test results help determine if one has estrogen excess, deficiency, or hormonal dysfunction. Based on that, suitable treatment is provided through options like diet changes, supplements, bioidentical hormones, etc.
In summary, estrogen is an integral sex steroid hormone with a multitude of functions in men and women. Getting your hormone levels tested and treated if needed can help prevent many issues that result from high or low estrogen levels. Consider world-class care from hormone experts at Vitality Hormone Clinic. Their individualized treatment plans can successfully restore hormonal balance and dramatically improve wellbeing.