Ailments and Situations - Menopause (and Related Issues) - Hormones - Estrogen

Three types of estrogen, estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3) are produced in the female body. Among its benefits, estrogen:

• Promotes breast, uterine lining, and ovarian tissue growth
• Elevates levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL), i.e., "good" cholesterol
• Promotes proper blood vessel function
• Prevents osteoporosis by inhibiting osteoclasts (bone cells involved in the recycling and breakdown of old bones)
• Helps remedy hot flashes
• Prevents vaginal thinning and dryness
• Enhances skin collagen, improves skin elasticity, and helps prevent wrinkles

Estrone (E1) is largely produced in body fat, which is why anorexic women cease menstruation and are at an increased risk of premature osteoporosis as their body lacks the necessary fat to sustain proper hormone function.

Estrone and estradiol (E2) are the most effective and common estrogens used and are available in oral, transdermal, and vaginal preparations. Estriol should be used where breast cancer is a concern (see below). In general, dosage should be as low as possible to achieve symptomatic relief. An ideal dose should match that found naturally in a woman's body. And as each women is unique, this profile will vary by the individual. High doses and those not balanced by progesterone can be dangerous.

When estrogen over-stimulates the breasts, uterus, or ovaries, excessive cell growth can occur and may lead to cancer. It is for this reason that women who have had breast cancer (or an estrogen-associated neoplasia of any kind), have a family history of breast cancer, or those considered higher risk are generally advised not to pursue conventional estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). In this case, estriol (E3) can be considered.

Estriol is considered a weaker estrogen and may protect against breast cancer. Estriol does not promote excess cell growth in breast tissue or the uterine lining and benefits skin collagen like other estrogen forms. Its effects on cholesterol levels are not equivalent to estrone or estradiol, however. Typical dosage is 2mg daily.