Estradiol is the most potent and predominant form of estrogen - the primary female sex hormone. It plays a vital role in sexual and reproductive development in women.
Some key functions of estradiol include:
Along with estrone and estriol, estradiol is produced primarily in the ovaries. Smaller amounts are produced in the adrenal glands and even fat tissue.
The production and circulation of estradiol is tightly regulated through the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. The hypothalamus monitors estradiol levels and responds by releasing hormones that signal the pituitary gland. In turn, the pituitary gland produces hormones to stimulate the ovaries to ramp estradiol production up or down.
Throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, estradiol levels fluctuate dramatically in response to complex hormonal signaling. Levels peak just before ovulation occurs to trigger the release of a mature egg. If fertilization does not happen, estradiol levels plunge during menstruation. Then the cycle starts again.
As a woman approaches menopause, ovarian function starts to decline. This causes estradiol production to steadily fall over months and years. Once periods stop entirely, circulating estradiol decreases to very low levels. Supplementing with external estradiol through hormone therapy can help alleviate unpleasant menopause symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness.
At Vitality Hormone Center, we offer cutting-edge bioidentical hormone therapy programs personalized to your unique hormonal needs. Our team of specialists includes endocrinologists, gynecologists, nutritionists, and complementary medicine providers. We use advanced lab testing to get a comprehensive picture of your hormone balance and create fully customized treatment plans.
Interested to learn more about optimizing your estradiol levels and hormonal health? Our holistic, multi-disciplinary approach has helped women across the country thrive throughout perimenopause, menopause, and beyond!