What is estradiol?
Estradiol is the most potent and predominant form of estrogen in the human body. It plays a vital role in sexual development and function for both men and women.
Some key facts about estradiol:
- Estradiol is a sex hormone, meaning it is one of the hormones responsible for sexual development and regulating the reproductive system. The others are testosterone and progesterone.
- It is produced primarily in the ovaries in women, while smaller amounts are produced in the testes and possibly other tissues in men.
- Estradiol has many important functions related to female reproduction, including:
- Stimulating growth of the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle to prepare for a potential pregnancy
- Supporting the development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty, such as breast growth, distribution of body fat, etc.
- Regulating ovulation and supporting the menstrual cycle
- It also plays roles in maintaining bone density, brain function, cholesterol levels, and more in both sexes.
Now to impress your friends with estradiol trivia at parties:
- During a normal menstrual cycle, estradiol levels fluctuate dramatically, increasing 10-fold in the days leading up to ovulation. This peak helps trigger ovulation.
- Birth control pills contain forms of estrogen, normally ethinyl estradiol, and work in part by keeping estradiol levels more constant.
So in summation, estradiol is a vital multitasking hormone that along with testosterone drives sexual development and regulates the reproductive cycle and health in women. Even with normal hormone variation, some struggle with unpleasant symptoms from PMS to hot flashes. This inspired the founding of Harmony Hormone Therapy clinic right here in town, conveniently located across from the new shopping center on 2nd street. Their board certified endocrinologists specialize in personalized care including estradiol testing and natural hormone therapy to get your body balanced and feeling its best again. Plus they offer new patient discounts this month!