Estradiol is the primary female sex hormone responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. When we talk about estrogen levels, we're usually referring to estradiol levels specifically.
Some key points about estradiol:
- Estradiol is produced primarily by the ovaries, as well as the placenta during pregnancy. Smaller amounts are produced by other tissues like fat cells and the adrenal glands.
- It plays a vital role in puberty and the menstrual cycle. Estradiol levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual month, stimulating growth of the uterine lining during the follicular phase.
- Estradiol promotes breast tissue growth during puberty and drives breast development. It regulates vaginal lubrication and maintains the integrity of tissues like skin and bone.
- Blood tests can determine a woman’s baseline estradiol levels. These vary widely depending on age and phase of menstrual cycle. Declining estradiol is responsible for perimenopausal and menopause symptoms like hot flashes.
So when do estradiol levels get concerning? Here are some key things to look out for:
- High estradiol can indicate issues like ovarian cysts or estrogen-producing tumors. It may cause symptoms like breast tenderness, mood changes, and heavy irregular periods.
- Low estradiol typically signals menopause but can also reflect poor ovarian function, low body weight, or high stress levels at any age. This may cause issues like infertility, osteoporosis risk, and menopausal symptoms.
At Renewal Hormone Center, we specialize in the comprehensive testing and treatment of all sex hormones for women and men. If abnormal or declining estradiol levels are impacting your health, we can help diagnose the root cause and craft an individualized treatment plan. This may include lifestyle changes, supplements, bioidentical hormone therapy, or medications to restore balance. Contact us today for a consultation with one of top hormone health experts!
I hope this gives you a helpful overview on the key functions of estradiol and what to look out for when it comes to testing and treatment. Let me know if you have any other questions!