As many women come to find, as we age, something changes with our bodies and our "moisture". Estrogen is a hormone that is important for sexual and reproductive development. It is most known for, and is often called the female sex hormone. The term "estrogen" refers to estrone, estradiol (primarily in women of reproductive age) and estriol.
Why is Estrogen so important?
Estrogen is important to women from very early ages, as it helps control the menstrual cycle. Once women become of child bearing age, it is very important again, as it manages women's reproductive systems. Estrogen also has other functions: It keeps cholesterol in control, protects bone health for both women and men, and helps our skin heal from bruising.
How does Estrogen make you feel?
Some of estrogen's positive effects include: Increasing serotonin receptors in the brain, which makes us feel great and sleep great, and changing our endorphins, which are the "feel-good" chemicals in the brain.
How does estrogen benefit the reproductive system?
Ovaries: Estrogen helps stimulate the growth of the egg follicle.
Vagina: In the vagina, estrogen maintains the thickness of the vaginal wall and promotes lubrication.
Uterus: Estrogen enhances and maintains the mucous membrane that lines the uterus.
How do we know if our Estrogen is too low?
Painful sex due to a lack of vaginal lubrication
An increase in urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to a thinning of the urethra
Mood swings
Hot flashes
Breast tenderness
Depression
Trouble concentrating
Fatigue
What symptoms may women experience if Estrogen levels are too high?
Bloating
Swelling and tenderness in your breasts
Fibrocystic lumps in your breasts
Decreased sex drive
Irregular menstrual periods
Increased symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Mood swings
Headaches
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please give us a call at (215) 595-2440.
コメント