Female sex steroids

Female sex steroids‏‎ are a group of steroid hormones that are produced by the ovaries in women. These hormones play a crucial role in the regulation of female reproductive processes, including the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. They also have significant effects on other body systems, including the cardiovascular system, bone health, and mental health.

Types of Female Sex Steroids

There are three main types of female sex steroids: estrogens, progesterone, and androgens.

Estrogens

Estrogens are the primary female sex hormones. They are responsible for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Estrogens also play a role in bone health, cardiovascular health, and mental health.

Progesterone

Progesterone is another important female sex hormone. It is primarily involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Progesterone prepares the endometrium for implantation of a fertilized egg and helps to maintain pregnancy once it has been established.

Androgens

While androgens are often thought of as male hormones, they are also produced in small amounts by the ovaries in women. Androgens in women are involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle, sexual desire, and the production of estrogens.

Role in Health and Disease

Female sex steroids play a crucial role in many aspects of health and disease. They are involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, and have significant effects on other body systems. Imbalances in these hormones can lead to a variety of health problems, including polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and osteoporosis.

See Also

• Hormone replacement therapy
• Menopause
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Endometriosis
• Osteoporosis

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