Estrogen what does

Estrogen can help a person develop female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breasts, and reduce male pattern hair formation. Estrogen therapy will be part of a broader treatment approach. A healthcare professional can advise the individual on the best course of treatment. Some types prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, and they do this by ensuring that hormone levels do not fluctuate throughout the month.

Other uses include decreasing premenstrual symptoms and reducing the severity of hormone-related acne. Oral birth control presents more risk for women who smoke or are over the age of 35 years. Long-term use may also lead to a higher risk of breast cancer. Some studies suggest that these may affect levels of estrogen in the body. However, there is not enough evidence to confirm this. Some people believe that foods containing phytoestrogens can help manage hot flashes and other effects of menopause, but this does not have scientific backing.

In addition, eating whole soy foods, for example, is unlikely to have the same effect as taking extracts from soy as a supplement. Some herbs and supplements contain phytoestrogens, which act in a similar way to estrogen. These may help regulate estrogen and treat symptoms of menopause. However, it is unclear exactly how these compounds affect estrogen and estrogen-related activity in the body, and there is not enough evidence to confirm that they are safe and effective, especially in the long term.

Researchers have called for further studies. As a result, it is not possible to know exactly what a product contains. Phytoestrogens are a natural compound found in plants. When eaten, they may affect a person in the same way as estrogen produced by the body.

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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Types of estrogen. Thinning tissues may cause discomfort. Skin may appear more wrinkled. Thinning in the urinary tract may lead to bladder infections.

You may also have an urgent need to urinate. Or you may lose bladder control incontinence. Thinning of the vagina may cause dryness and painful sex. Estrogen helps maintain strong bones by preventing calcium loss. Too little calcium can increase the risk of fractures in the spine, hips, and leg and arm bones. Women who drink a lot of alcohol, who smoke, who are not active, and who are thin or petite are at greater risk.

A family history of osteoporosis may also increase risk. Heart disease. Estrogen made by the body seems to protect against heart disease. Throughout your life, your body depends on estrogen to keep it healthy and going strong. Hormones that are out of whack can wreak havoc, causing hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and similarly uncomfortable conditions.

Our dedicated physicians strive to help our patients achieve balance in their health and their hormones. For women, your lifelong good health depends largely on your gynecological care, and our team takes that responsibility seriously.

Depending on your season of life, your body produces different types and amounts of estrogen in an effort to maintain balance.

The types of estrogen and their primary function are:. Estrogen affects your overall health, throughout your life.