Julia Trojniak, Dorota Bartusik-Aebisher and David Aebisher
Medical College of The University of Rzeszów, Rzeszów, Poland

Part of the book: The Biochemical Guide to Hormones

Abstract

Estrogens – units necessary for the proper functioning of the reproductive system. Estrogens have been widely used in contraceptives. The main risk is the increased likelihood of developing cervical and breast cancer. Estrogens are also used in anti-acne therapies based on hormones. Much less often, but there are estrogen therapies in ovarian dysfunction, e.g., in Turner and Swyer syndromes, premature ovarian failure or in its absence. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), may also be associated with the treatment of osteoporosis by increasing skeletal weight. They have been shown to reduce ailments such as: depressive symptoms, problems with concentration, insomnia, and problems with appetite. Estrogens are used to improve the cognitive processes of women during the menopause.

Keywords: estrogens, estriol, estrone, stradiol, nuclear-initiated steroid signaling (NISS), membrane-initiated steroid signaling (MISS), Turner syndrome

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