Oestrogen

Oestrogen is a female hormone that is produced mainly in the ovaries, although it is also produced in smaller amounts in the placenta, adrenal glands and fat cells. Its main function is to regulate the menstrual cycle, prepare the body for conception and support the development of female secondary sex characteristics such as breast development and body fat distribution. It is also involved in bone formation and the regulation of various metabolic processes. At puberty, oestrogen levels increase dramatically, and continue to increase until a woman reaches her mid-thirties. During the menstrual cycle, oestrogen levels fluctuate and can cause changes in mood, energy levels and libido. During the reproductive years, oestrogen levels are highest just before ovulation and reach their lowest levels during menstruation. Oestrogen plays an important role in the prevention of osteoporosis by maintaining the health of bones and preventing bone breakdown. It also helps to regulate cholesterol levels, maintain cardiovascular health and protect against certain types of cancer. In postmenopausal women, oestrogen levels decline dramatically, leading to a decrease in bone density, an increase in cholesterol levels and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. To counteract these effects, many postmenopausal women take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which helps to restore the body’s natural balance of hormones.