Does Estrogen Make You Hornier?

In this article, we will take a close look at estrogen, one of the primary female sex hormones. We will explore its various roles and benefits, including its impact on the female reproductive system, bone health, and menopausal symptoms. We will also learn about the complex relationship between estrogen and sexual desire.

Author - Nithishwer Mouroug Anand

Nithish is a computational biochemist at the University of Oxford working on alchemical methods for protein-drug interactions.

Nithishwer used MediSearch to find sources for this blog.

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What is Estrogen?

Estrogen is one of the primary female sex hormones, alongside progesterone. It is produced mainly in the ovaries but can also be produced or converted into different forms of estrogen in other body parts such as the fat tissue, adrenal glands, liver, and breasts [1].

Estrogen is essential for the development, regulation, and maintenance of the female reproductive system and sex characteristics. It also controls how fat is distributed in the female body and is crucial for female bone and joint health [2, 3].

Besides its role in female physiology, estrogen also has functions in males. In men, the adrenal glands and testes produce estradiol, a form of estrogen. Although estradiol levels are lower in males than in females, it has been shown to prevent the destruction of sperm cells in vitro and perform various other functions[3].

Uses and benefits of Estrogen

One of the primary uses of estrogen is to relieve menopausal symptoms. As estrogen levels fall during menopause, symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, chills, difficulty sleeping, and excessive sweating can occur. Estrogen-containing medication can help relieve these symptoms [4].

Estrogen also protects against osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures. It can help decrease bone loss after menopause [4]. Moreover, estrogen therapy has been associated with reduced risk of colorectal cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Current estrogen and hormone replacement therapy users have a 34% reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer and a 20% to 60% reduction in the risk of Alzheimer's disease [5].

Furthermore, estrogen has been found to protect against obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown the beneficial effects of estradiol, the most active estrogen, in these areas [6]. An epidemiologic review of the literature demonstrates an approximately 50% reduction in cardiovascular risk in women using estrogen [7].

However, it's important to note that while estrogen therapy has numerous benefits, it also carries potential risks, such as an increased risk of certain cancers and blood clots. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss these risks and benefits with a healthcare professional before starting estrogen therapy [4].