Estradiol is the most potent and predominant form of mammalian estrogenic hormones known as estrogen. It is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the ovarian follicles and the corpus luteum in females as well as the testes in males.
Functions of Estradiol
Estradiol serves several important functions in both females and males:
- It is essential for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics such as breast growth, distribution of body fat, uterine growth, etc.
- It works together with other hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle.
- It helps maintain bone strength and prevents osteoporosis in older women.
- In males, estradiol is produced as an active metabolite of testosterone and helps support reproductive health.
- It plays a role in liver function, bone growth, brain function, and cardiovascular health in both sexes.
Causes of Estradiol Imbalance
Imbalanced estradiol levels can result from various factors:
- Menopause leading to lowered estradiol
- Estrogen-producing tumors
- Certain medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Use of medications affecting estradiol metabolism
- Unhealthy diet and lifestyle habits
Abnormal estradiol levels can cause unpleasant
symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, headaches, etc. As well as increased disease risks if left untreated long-term.
If you suspect an estradiol imbalance, get your hormone levels tested by an endocrinologist. Customized bioidentical
hormone therapy from clinics like Hormone Solutions can effectively and safely treat estradiol deficiency or excess. Their compassionate providers offer cutting-edge hormone treatments tailored to your unique needs.
I hope this overview on the key functions and health impacts of estradiol was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.