Estrogen – a sex hormone and its importance in the body

Estrogen is one of the key substances that regulate body functions, mainly known as the female sex hormone.It is responsible for many processes, such as the development of sexual characteristics, control of the menstrual cycle, as well as influencing bone and heart health.In this article, we will discuss what estrogen is, when it is worth testing its level, how to interpret the results and why it is so important for women’s health.

Estrogen – what is it?what are the properties of this female sex hormone?

Estrogen is a family of steroid hormones that are found in both men and women, although they are known primarily as female hormones.The main types of estrogen are estradiol, estriol and estrone.They are produced mainly in the ovaries of women and in small amounts in the testicles and adrenal glands of men.

Estrogens perform many important functions in the bodies of both sexes.In women, they are responsible for developing secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and body shape.They also control the menstrual cycle and help maintain pregnancy.In men’s bodies, estrogens play a role in controlling bone growth and the functioning of the nervous system.

When should estrogen testing be performed?

Estrogen testing may be recommended in a variety of situations for both men and women.Most often, it is related to monitoring reproductive and hormonal health, as well as for the diagnosis of other health conditions.Here are some situations in which you should consider estrogen testing:

• Monitoring the menstrual cycle and assessing the causes of menstrual irregularities.
• Diagnostics of infertility in women.
• Assessment of the risk of osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women.
• Investigating the causes of symptoms related to low libido or sexual problems.
• Hormonal control during hormone therapy.
• Assessment of the health of men with suspected excessive estrogen levels, which may be related to hormonal problems or cancer.

Proper estrogen levels during pregnancy

Much more estrogen is produced during pregnancy than under normal conditions because it plays a key role in maintaining and developing the pregnancy.Estrogen helps maintain pregnancy by influencing the development of the uterus and blood flow to the placenta.Reference values for estrogen levels in pregnant women are higher than in people without a child, so in this case the interpretation of the results must take this fact into account.

Estrogen – course of the test.which parameters should be checked along with estrogen levels?

Testing estrogen levels involves taking a blood sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory.It is also important to determine the level of other hormones, such as progesterone or LH (luteinizing hormone), because they are closely related to the functioning of the endocrine system.The estrogen test result should be interpreted in the context of other hormonal parameters.

Estrogen – norms, interpretation of results

Estrogen levels may vary depending on the laboratory and units of measurement, so it is always worth consulting a doctor to interpret the results.However, in general, in women of childbearing age, the reference values are around 30-400 pg/ml (picograms per milliliter of blood).After menopause, estrogen levels drop, but normal levels may still vary from lab to lab.

It is worth emphasizing that the interpretation of the results should always take into account the individual situation of the patient, her or his health history and clinical symptoms.Therefore, it is always important to consult a specialist.

Estrogen test – price/reimbursement

Estrogen testing costs may vary by region, laboratory, and type of test.In some cases, this test may be reimbursed by the health system if it is performed for medical reasons.It’s worth consulting your doctor or checking the reimbursement policies in your region for more information on this topic.

Your suggestions

If you have any concerns about your hormonal health, it is always worth consulting your doctor or endocrinologist.Testing estrogen levels can help diagnose various health problems and tailor appropriate treatment.Don’t hesitate to seek medical help if you think it’s necessary.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of hormones and hormonal health, we also recommend reading other articles on this topic available on our website.Learn more about the importance of other hormones in the body and how hormonal changes impact your health and well-being.

It is worth remembering that hormones play a key role in our body, so taking care of their balance and regular examinations can contribute to maintaining health and good condition for many years.

Article prepared by the XYZ Medical website.