Estradiol is one of the most important estrogens, or female sex hormones, in the human body. It plays a crucial role in female sexual development and reproduction. Some key facts about estradiol:
- Estradiol is produced mainly by the ovaries and small amounts are also produced by other tissues like fat. It is critical for the growth, maintenance, and function of female reproductive tissues like the breasts, uterus, and vagina.
- It regulates the menstrual cycle and prepares the body for pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining. Fluctuating levels of estradiol cause ovulation and menstruation.
- Stimulates the growth of breast tissue during puberty and drives breast development
- Regulates the menstrual cycle by controlling follicle growth in the ovaries
- Thickens the endometrium (uterine lining) to prepare for implantation of a fertilized egg
- Maintains female reproductive tissues like the vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes
- Is involved in calcium absorption and bone maintenance
- Evaluating menstrual irregularities, ovarian problems, infertility
- Monitoring hormone replacement therapy during menopause
- Diagnosing conditions like hypogonadism, amenorrhea
- Determining the timing of ovulation to aid conception
- Assessing bone density in postmenopausal women