Estrogen

Estrogen is a hormone produced by the follicles used to prepare the uterus for the reception of a fertilised egg.[1] It is considered to be one of the primary female hormones just as testosterone is in males.

* estrogen receptors located in the hypothalamus serve as a master switch to control food intake, energy expenditure and body fat distribution [2]
* The woman's ovaries produce most estrogen hormones, although the adrenal glands also produce small amounts of the hormones.[3]

There are several types of estrogen:

* Estradiol (main form of estrogen)
* Estriol (large amounts during pregnancy)
* Estrone (predominate in post-menopausal women)

Several artificial forms such as ethinyl-estradiol have been manufactured for use in oral contraceptive devices. These are often delivered via esters, such as menstrone.

## References[edit]

1. ↑ http://www.paternityangel.com/Articles_zone/How_it_happens/How-1.htm
2. ↑ https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/08/070820145348.htm
3. ↑ http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/uvahealth/adult_gyneonc/estrogen.cfm

## See also[edit]

* ovulation