Estrogen

Effects and Benefits

Estrogen is made in the ovaries, the follicle around the ovum, adrenal glands and fat cells. Estrogen is not one big molecule, it is a group of molecules. The three main estrogen molecules are: estriol, estradiol, estrone. Estrogen makes everything grow. The positive effects of its action are that it:

Makes the lining of the uterus grow to prepare for pregnancy
Helps the breast tissues grow in preparation for making milk
Causes the ovum to mature inside the ovary to prepare for ovulation
Creates the follicle where the egg matures
Promotes the growth of the fetus
Keeps the vagina, the vulva and the cervix well developed and moisturized
Promotes growth of underarm and pubic hair, and pigmentation of the nipples
Stimulates body fat accumulation to prevent starvation of the fetus
Prevents bone destruction by bone destroying cells (osteoclasts)
Protects from hypertension by relaxing the lining of blood vessels
Stimulates the production of lipoprotein lipase, an enzyme which breaks down fat. The result is low cholesterol levels and good balance between good (HDL) cholesterol and bad (LDL) cholesterol.
Lowers insulin levels
Induces relaxation of blood vessels in the circulation in general and heart in particular

The negative effects of the growth induced by estrogen unopposed (acting alone), without the balancing effects of progesterone are:

Increased accumulation of body fat
Increased water and salt retention
Interference with normal insulin release and blood sugar control
Increased risk of overgrowth of endometrium (lining of the uterus)
Increased risk of overgrowth of breast tissue
Increased risk of depression
Increased risk of headaches
Increased risk of gallbladder disease
Increased incidence of blood clot formation

Read on to find out more about Estrogen