Estradiol is one of the most important estrogen sex hormones in both men and women. It plays a vital role in sexual development and function.
Specifically, estradiol:
- Stimulates the growth of the uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina during puberty in girls
- Causes breast development during adolescence
- Regulates the menstrual cycle by controlling the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries
- Maintains the health of tissues like skin, hair, nails, nerves, bone, liver, heart and brain
- Influences libido and erectile function
- Contributes to fat storage around the hips and thighs
Estradiol is produced mainly by the ovaries. Smaller amounts are also made in the adrenal glands and in tissues like fat. Estradiol production is controlled by hormones from the pituitary gland, which stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs that release estradiol.
During the menstrual cycle,
estradiol levels fluctuate:
- Levels rise during the follicular phase as an egg matures
- Levels peak just before ovulation occurs
- Levels decrease during the luteal phase unless fertilization occurs
If pregnancy occurs, hCG from the embryo maintains estradiol production.
Estradiol levels steadily rise during pregnancy to support fetal development.
After menopause, estradiol production drops substantially as egg supply declines. However, some estradiol continues to be produced by fat tissue and the adrenal glands.
Supplementing estradiol is sometimes used to treat
symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, vaginal dryness and osteoporosis. Estradiol is also given to
transgender women as part of feminizing hormone therapy.
However, abnormal estradiol levels can negatively impact health. Too much estradiol may increase risk for uterine cancer, breast cancer and blood clots. Too little can cause issues like osteoporosis, vaginal atrophy and heart disease.
In summary, estradiol is an essential sex hormone that plays a key role throughout life in both biological sexes. Maintaining balanced levels supports overall health and quality of life. Monitoring estradiol levels is important for managing conditions related to estrogen status like infertility, menopause and transgender care at clinics like Revive Health & Wellness.