Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone

What are they and what do they do?

Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are all sex hormones, which play an important role in reproduction, the development of sexual characteristics and the functioning of many organs in the body.

Estrogen

Estrogen is actually a collective name for a group of hormones (including estradiol, estrone and estriol).

What does estrogen do?

Throughout your entire body, you can find receptors for estrogen. This can help you better understand why so many different symptoms occur during (peri)menopause. Here you can already find some of the affected systems:

Regulates the menstrual cycle and ensures the growth of the uterine lining, so that it is ready for a possible pregnancy.
Development of secondary sexual characteristics such as breast growth and wider hips during puberty
Bones: Plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density and preventing bone loss
Cardiovascular: Has a beneficial effect on the health of the heart and blood vessels. Estrogen has a protective effect on blood vessels through vasodilating effects, a positive influence on cholesterol and an inhibitory effect on inflammation and atherosclerosis. The main mechanisms are the stimulation of nitric oxide (NO) for vasodilation and a beneficial influence on LDL and HDL cholesterol. The loss of this protective effect during (peri)menopause increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Brain: Throughout your life there is continuous interaction between your ovaries and brain. Estrogen is extremely important for energy production in your brain (pushes neurons to burn glucose and contributes to good brain function). So when estrogen is high, your brain energy is high. Neurons (nerve cells) age faster without estrogen. The hypothalamus is the brain region where your body temperature is regulated. When estrogen does not correctly control the hypothalamus, you get hot flashes or a different perception of ambient temperature. Your brainstem, amygdala and hippocampus are other areas of your brain that also experience the loss of estrogen and this manifests itself in disturbed sleep and memory.
Vagina and vulva (external female genitalia): Estrogen ensures moisturization and elasticity of the mucous membranes and skin. It also ensures good blood flow and contributes to the normal acidity of your vagina.
Joints: Estrogen receptors are present in joints, ligaments and tendons. When estrogen decreases, you may experience problems with your joints and ligaments and frozen shoulder.
Muscle mass: Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining muscle mass by promoting protein synthesis, supporting the recovery process after exercise and improving the elasticity of muscles, tendons and joint ligaments.

Progesterone

This hormone works together with estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain pregnancy. It also contributes to the health of multiple systems in your body. The role of progesterone has been much less studied than that of estrogen to date. What can progesterone potentially influence:

Menstrual cycle
Pregnancy
Uterine lining
Brain and nervous system: has a calming effect and can contribute to relaxation and sleep via GABA receptors.
Musculoskeletal: progesterone supports collagen synthesis and connective tissue health.
Modulation of pain sensitivity

Testosterone

In women, testosterone enters the blood directly via the ovaries, but it can also be produced by the adrenal glands and in peripheral tissues. Testosterone contributes to your libido, bone health, muscle strength and energy level.

This information is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. It does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other qualified healthcare provider. Always consult your (family) doctor if you have questions or concerns about your health or treatment.