Estradiol is a female sex hormone from the estrogen group, which is mainly produced by the ovaries (in a small number it is synthesized by the adrenal glands). The hormone level of estradiol in women varies depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. The production of estradiol is stimulated by the releasing hormones of the pituitary gland. In our article, we learn what affects the female hormone estradiol and what is the danger in case of deviations from its norm.
The hormone estradiol - what is it responsible for?
As already mentioned, the production of luteinizing (LH) and follicle stimulating (FSH) hormones in the pituitary gland stimulates the production of estradiol by the ovaries. The main function of estradiol is the potentiation of follicle growth and the growth of the functional layer of the endometrium. At the time of ovulation, the thickness of the inner layer of the endometrium should be at least 10 mm. The lack of estradiol inhibits the growth and maturation of the dominant follicle - hence, ovulation may not occur. The growth of functional endometrium will also be inhibited. In such cases, even a successfully fertilized egg can not be implanted into the wall of the uterus and there will be a miscarriage at an early stage.
Speaking about the functions of estradiol, we can not fail to mention that it is he who makes a beautiful woman. Under the influence of the female hormone estradiol, a female figure is formed (a large chest, a thin waist with a smooth transition to the hips), the skin becomes smooth and silky, and it prevents hair growth in typical places for men (face, chest, legs, abdomen).
Analysis for estradiol in women
Analysis for estradiol is carried out by venous blood sampling on an empty stomach. The level of estradiol hormone normally varies depending on the phase of the cycle. So, it begins to be developed from the first days of the menstrual cycle (in the follicular phase, the level of estradiol ranges from 57-227 pg / ml). By the middle of the cycle, the estradiol index is the maximum (before ovulation the level of estradiol is in the range 27-476 pg / ml), which in 24-36 hours will provoke rupture of the follicle and the onset of ovulation. After ovulation, the level of estradiol is sharply reduced. So in the luteinizing phase it is 77-227 pg / ml. Elevated levels of estradiol in women in the third phase of the menstrual cycle indicates the onset of pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the level of estradiol in women progressively increases, reaching a maximum value before childbirth. After delivery within 4-5 days, the level of estradiol in the blood drops drastically.
The level of estradiol below the norm in women can be for the following reasons:
- smoking;
- vegetarian diet;
- sharp weight loss;
- impaired production of sex hormones;
- defeat of the pituitary gland;
- excessive physical activity.
- increased prolactin levels.
During the menopause, the level of estradiol is reduced and is in the range of 19.7-82 pg / ml. Increasing the level of this hormone during menopause can talk about malignant tumors of the ovaries.
The level of estradiol in men
In the male body, estradiol is produced in the tissue of the testicles and adrenal glands in a small amount. Normally the level of this
So, we examined the normal levels of estradiol in a woman, as well as the reasons for its increase and decrease. With a lack of estradiol in the female body caused by the early menopause, surgical and radiation castration, hypo- and amenorrhea, the reception of its synthetic analogue is indicated. Thus, the preparation 17-beta estradiol (estradiol e2) is identical to natural estradiol and is available as a transdermal ointment, oily solution, nasal spray and tablets. The drug can only be taken after consulting a doctor.