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Estrogen is commonly known
as the dominant 'female hormone' because its role in the female body is to
prepare it for unique female functions such as pregnancy, and aids in the growth
stages of puberty. Estrogen is vital for the development of breasts and hips.
In addition, the vagina, uterus, and other female organs depend on the existence
of estrogen in the body to mature.
Progesterone is another
female hormone that works in conjunction with estrogen. Together the two
hormones regulate the changes that occur with each monthly period and prepare
the uterus for pregnancy. Prior to menopause, more than 90% of the estrogen in
a woman's body is made by the ovaries. Other organs, (including the adrenal
glands, liver, and kidneys), also make small amounts of estrogen. This is why
when a woman enters menopause, she experiences symptoms, due to a decrease in
the production levels of estrogen. Fat cells also make small amounts of
estrogen, and because of this, women who are overweight when during menopause
may have fewer problems with hot flashes and osteoporosis (both of which are
related to lack of estrogen).
Some of the other important
benefits of estrogen become apparent when estrogen levels decline after
menopause. For instance, estrogen stimulates skeletal growth and helps maintain
healthy bones. It also helps protect the heart and veins by increasing 'good
cholesterol' (HDL or high-density lipoprotein) and lowering 'bad cholesterol' (LDL
or low-density lipoprotein). Estrogen may also affect a woman’s sexual desire.
Progesterone is the second
most important female hormone. Similar to estrogen, most of progesterone is
made by the ovaries, with a smaller amount made by the adrenal glands.
Progesterone holds the jobs of:
Stimulating the growth of a
cushiony lining in the uterus where the fertilized egg can - grow and
develop into a baby
- Help the breast make milk
- Generally maintain
pregnancy
Some Information used from:
http://www.fbhc.org/Patients/Modules/menopause.cfm#understanding.©1997-2001,
The Foundation for Better Health Care.
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Bio Identical Medical Definitions
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