Effects of Estrogen

Estrogen Effects

Estrogen works within females in a similar way testosterone works within males. Estrogen, or oestrogens, are sex hormones that assist in developing sexual and reproductive qualities in vertebrates, as well as in others. Estrogen occurs naturally within both males and females, with females receiving a larger share than males. Estrogen is also a critical component of birth control treatments, as well as postmenopausal treatments. Most recently, estrogen has been linked to faster healing times for wounds in humans, as well as an adjunct treatment for bulimia alongside cognitive behavioral therapy.

Estrogen's primary functionality in the body is to reduce muscle mass, accelerate metabolism, reduce bone resorption and increase fat stores. Women have an increased level of estrogen when compared to men, leading to a unique set of benefits and problems. Estrogen levels in females tend to follow reproductive patterns, as they rise when a woman is within childbearing years and fall after menopause. Much like the sex hormone testosterone, which is found in greater levels in men, estrogen in women is known to affect mood, as well as physiological response.

For example, during and after menopause, many women experience a lower level of estrogen, leading to a variety of symptoms and side effects. Some of the most common side effects of estrogen imbalance include depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and more. As well, some diseases, such as breast cancer, are found to benefit from estrogen. Women with a higher level of estrogen, either due to natural production or synthetic production, are typically found to experience a higher incidence of breast cancer or resistance to breast cancer treatment.

If you are questioning your hormone levels, it is important to speak with a medical professional as soon as possible. There are many medical options available to treat hormone imbalances, including hormone replacement therapy. As well, there are many natural solutions to deal with the side effects of an estrogen imbalance, as well as associated conditions, such as menopause. Many natural medications cost much less than prescription drugs and most have fewer side effects. While natural therapies are not always designed to correct imbalances of hormones in the body, they can often control the symptoms and side effects of hormonal imbalances enough to allow those suffering to find relief. Whether you have considered prescription, over-the-counter or natural therapies for an imbalance in estrogen or other hormones, it is vital to be tested by a healthcare professional.