Sex hormone

Sex hormones, also known as steroid hormones, are hormones that interact with vertebrate steroid hormone receptors. The sex hormones include the androgens, estrogens, and progesterones. They are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty and for regulating the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Androgens

Androgens, such as testosterone, are the primary male sex hormones. They are produced primarily in the testes, but also in the adrenal glands. Androgens stimulate the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as increased muscle and bone mass, and the growth of body hair.

Estrogens

Estrogens are the primary female sex hormones. They are produced primarily in the ovaries, but also in the adrenal glands and fat cells. Estrogens stimulate the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and the growth of body hair. They also regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Progesterones

Progesterone is a female sex hormone that plays a key role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. It is produced in the ovaries following ovulation, and prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, triggering menstruation.

Role in Health and Disease

Sex hormones play a key role in health and disease. Imbalances in sex hormones can lead to a variety of health problems, including polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and certain types of cancer. Hormone replacement therapy, which involves taking synthetic sex hormones, is often used to treat these conditions.

See Also

• Hormone
• Endocrine system
• Hormone replacement therapy

Sex hormone Resources
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