II. Definitions

  1. Estrogens
    1. Estrogens are synthesized in vivo and maintain female sex characteristics
    2. Estrogens target receptors in gynecologic organs, as well as male Ledigs Cells and Prostate Glands, and heart, skin, Kidney, liver, brain
  2. Estradiol
    1. Most potent, natural form of Estrogens in humans

III. Physiology

  1. Images
    1. menstrualCycle.png
  2. Estrogen effects
    1. Breast development (ducts, fat)
    2. Female genitalia
    3. Secondary sex characteristics
    4. Uterine endometrial lining proliferation in the Proliferative Phase of menstual cycyle
  3. Symptoms associated with physiologic increased Estrogen levels (e.g. Premenstrual Syndrome)
    1. Swollen or engorged Breast tenderness
    2. Water retention
    3. Irritability (decreased Serotonin)
    4. Headaches
    5. Visual disturbance
    6. Memory difficulty
    7. Sweet craving
  4. Excess Estrogen effects (e.g. Oral Contraceptives)
    1. Contraception
      1. Limits FSH and LH rise, preventing Ovulation
      2. Cervical Mucus thickening (more hostile to sperm)
      3. Inhibit ovum implantation in Uterus
    2. Adverse effects
      1. See Oral Contraceptives for adverse effects
      2. Venous Thromboembolism Risk
      3. Endometrial Hyperplasia or Endometrial Cancer (Unopposed Estrogen, without Progesterone)
      4. Hypertension
  5. Estrogen Deficiency
    1. See Menopause
    2. See Premature Ovarian Failure
    3. Hot Flushes
    4. Vaginal Atrophy
    5. Osteoporosis

IV. Labs: Normal Levels

  1. Male: 6 to 46 pg/ml
  2. Female
    1. Follicular Phase: 30 to 90 pg/ml
    2. Luteal Phase: 70 to 300 pg/ml

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