Estradiol is the most potent and dominant form of estrogen in the human body. It is a steroid hormone that is essential for sexual and reproductive development, mainly in women.
Some key points about estradiol:
- Produced mainly in the ovaries, estradiol helps regulate the menstrual cycle and prepares the body for pregnancy. It thickens the uterine lining during the follicular phase to allow implantation of a fertilized egg.
- Estradiol levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, peaking just before ovulation. This estrogen surge triggers the release of an egg from the ovaries.
- In addition to reproduction, estradiol affects many other body systems. For example, it helps regulate bone density, cholesterol levels, body fat distribution, and mood regulation.
- Declining estradiol levels during perimenopause and menopause cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances in some women. Estrogen therapy can help manage these symptoms.
- Abnormally high or low levels of estradiol can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, osteoporosis, and other health issues. Hormone testing helps diagnose hormonal imbalances.
- Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are associated with excess estradiol production. Certain cancers can also increase estradiol levels in the body.