Let's talk estrogen!

Women are complex- we all know that!

Let's Talk About Estrogen!

Estrogen is a major hormone affecting women, daily. Let’s face it, we’re not getting any younger! Women’s life expectancy has increased from age 47 in 1900 to age 80 in 2005. Estrogen imbalance is a very common ailment that most women know little about!

​Did you know that there are three types of estrogen?
– Estrone (E1) 5% - 10% (primarily during menopause)
– Estradiol (E2) 5% - 10% (primarily for reproductive years)
– Estriol (E3) 80% - 90% (primarily during pregnancy)
Most estrogen is created by the ovaries with lesser amounts from the adrenal cortex.

Estrone (E1) Quick Facts:
• Is the least abundant of the three estrogens
• Primary hormone during menopause
• Made in the ovaries and peripheral tissue
• Is converted into estradiol and estriol
• Can also convert into testosterone
• Synthetic estrone has been shown to cause cancer

Estradiol (E2) Quick Facts:
• Estradiol is the most biologically potent estrogen
• Primary hormone during reproductive years
• Most biologically active estrogen in the body
• It is 12X as potent as estrone
• It is 80X as potent as estriol

Estriol (E3) Quick Facts:
• Weakest form of estrogen
• Non-pregnant production is from the conversion of estrone and estradiol
• Produced by the placenta during pregnancy

Some functions of estrogens:
• Activates immune system
• Can have pro-inflammatory effect
• Improves insulin function
• Increases action of cilia in fallopian tubes
• Promotes sleep
• Induces ovulation
• Prevents bone loss
• Increases metabolism
• Softens and smooths skin

​Many women experience estrogen dominance, with some experiencing estrogen deficiency- this can be caused by a significant amount of factors. Now remember, this blog is only addressing estrogen, specifically!

This chart shows some "typical symptoms".

When a woman’s estrogen levels aren't where “they should be”- it causes a cascade of other issues. No, you are not crazy! Yes, there is hope! Hormonal regulation is a complex system- if you would like to know more, please, contact us today!

Let's get back to health,
​Dr. Taryn