Effects of Estrogen on the Body

Introduction

• Estrogen is a key female sex hormone.
• Discusses its impacts on both female and male bodies.
• Use of cadaver examples to illustrate reproductive structures and effects of estrogen.
• Problems that may arise from imbalanced estrogen levels.

Types of Estrogens

• Umbrella term for multiple hormones in the estrogen family.
• Three main estrogens:
  • Estradiol (most potent and significant)
  • Estrone
  • Estriol

Production of Estrogens

• Ovaries: Main production site. Estrogens are released into the bloodstream to circulate throughout the body.
• Adrenal Cortex: Produces minute amounts.
• Males: Smaller amounts, primarily converted from testosterone by the enzyme aromatase.
• Locations in Males: Sertoli cells in the testes and liver.

Functions of Estrogens

Puberty

• During childhood: Minimal amount of estrogen, negligible effect.
• During puberty: 20-fold increase causing significant changes.

Effects on Female Reproductive Organs

• Increase in size of sex organs, including uterus, uterine tube (Fallopian tube), ovaries, and vaginal canal.
• External genitalia like labia majora and labia minora grow, with more fat deposition.
• Mons pubis: Increased fat deposits.
• Vaginal Canal: Thicker epithelial tissue ( stratified squamous epithelium) for protection.
• Uterus lining (endometrium): Changes for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

Other Physical Changes

• Initiates breast growth and milk-producing structures (needs progesterone for full development).
• Affects bone tissue: Inhibits osteoclasts; increases bone growth and density (osteoporosis risk in menopause).
• Body fat: Increases body fat and its distribution to areas like breasts, buttocks, and thighs.
• Skin: Makes skin smoother, softer but thinner; increases vascularity.

Metabolic Rate

• Causes a slight increase in metabolic rate (~1/3 of the increase caused by testosterone).

Estrogen in Males

• Production: Converted from testosterone (1/5 of the non-pregnant female amount).
• Functions: Modulates spermatogenesis, sex drive, and erectile function.
• Too much Estrogen: Can develop breast tissue, interfere with spermatogenesis, cause libido issues, and erectile dysfunction.

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• Includes female hormone test kits relevant to estradiol measurement.

Conclusion

• Balanced hormone levels are essential for both males and females.
• Importance of understanding hormone levels through testing.
• Encourage interaction/comments from viewers and promoting further videos on related topics.