Estrogen is a sex hormone that plays a vital role in maintaining a woman’s sexual and reproductive health. However, what many women don’t realize is that there are different types of estrogen. Sound intriguing? Keep reading, as today’s blog post reveals what those are and why they should matter to you.

What is Estrogen?

Estrogen is one of two sex hormones commonly associated with female biology. Alongside progesterone, estrogen is necessary for female reproductive health functions including:

• Menstruation
• Pregnancy and menopause
• Other bodily systems
• The development of secondary sex characteristics (breasts, hips, etc.)

What Are the Different Types of Estrogen? 

As we mentioned, there are several different types of estrogen. The three major forms include:

• Estrone (E1). The primary form of estrogen that your body produces post-menopause.
• Estradiol (E2). The primary form of estrogen that’s made during your reproductive years. It’s also the most potent form of estrogen.
• Estriol (E3). The primary form of estrogen that’s made during pregnancy.

The Role Estrogen Plays in Reproductive Health

Just like any other hormone, estrogen is a chemical messenger. Therefore, it tells your body when to start and stop processes related to reproductive and sexual health. Specifically, estrogen is necessary during:

• Estrogen levels rise, developing secondary sex characteristics like breasts and bodily curves.
• Menstrual cycle. Estrogen works with progesterone and brain chemicals (FSH and LH) to maintain regular periods. Estrogen also plays a role in ovulation, where it thickens the lining of your uterus.
• Pregnancy and fertility. Estrogen peaks during ovulation, where it thins your cervical mucus (aka the fluid sperm must swim through to reach and fertilize an egg).
• Estrogen levels drop during menopause, prompting symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and hot flashes.

Women’s Health Clinic Near Me

If you previously weren’t aware of the different types of estrogen, we hope you are now. If you’re looking for a gynecologist or menopause specialist in Tysons, The Menopause Center is the best in the industry. Contact our team to discover what we can do for you.