Estrogens are a subclass of the sex steroid hormones. Also includes androgens and progestagens
Hormones 101 -"Feel Good, Look Good"
- Renowned as the hormones that makes a woman female. Estrogens are responsible for breasts, hips, menstrual periods, soft skin, and a higher-pitched voice
- Estrogens also regulate the development, growth, pubertal maturation, and reproductive processes in both females and males.
The 3 most significant estrogens are produced from androgens through the action of enzymes:
- ESTRADIOL (E2, 17ß-ESTRADIOL). The predominant form in non-pregnant females from menarche to menopause; the most powerful and most carcinogenic.
- ESTRONE (E3). Produced and more predominant during menopause; 70% less biologically active than ESTRADIOL;
- ESTRIOL (E1). Primary estrogen of pregnancy; least powerful;
Estrogen production. The female ovaries are not the only source of estrogen - which is also produced by the metabolic activity of certain enzymes in adrenal glands, fat, skin, and many other peripheral sites :
Estrogen Production in Reproductive-age Women
