Understanding Where does Estrogen Come from After Menopause?
After Menopause, a woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal changes.
One of the primary hormones affected is Estrogen, which plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions.
During the reproductive years, the ovaries are the primary source of Estrogen production.
However, after Menopause, when ovarian function declines, the body relies on alternative sources to maintain Estrogen levels.
These alternative sources include the adrenal glands, which produce a small amount of Estrogen, and peripheral tissues.
These include fat cells, which can convert Androgens into Estrogen through aromatization.
Understanding the origins of Estrogen after Menopause is essential for comprehending the hormonal dynamics that occur during this transitional phase in a woman’s life.
Changes in Estrogen production during Menopause
A woman’s body produces fewer ovarian follicles as Menopause approaches.
As a result, the ovaries progressively stop producing as much Estrogen.
The cessation of monthly cycles and several Menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and dry vaginal discharge, are brought on by this drop in Estrogen levels.
How is Estrogen produced after Menopause
In postmenopausal women, Estrogen production significantly decreases as the ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce lower hormones.
Listed below are the sources of Estrogen production,
Adrenal glands
After Menopause, the adrenal glands, which are situated above the kidneys, release a tiny quantity of Estrogen.
The primary source of these hormones is an Androstenedione precursor hormone, which is then transformed into Estrone, a subtype of Estrogen.
Fat cells
Adipose tissue, also called fat cells, can aromatize and generate Estrogen.
An aromatase enzyme in adipose tissue transforms Androgens (male hormones) into Estrogens.
Skin
Through the aromatization process, the skin can also create Estrogen.
This local Estrogen production in the skin supports skin health and controls several skin processes.
Other tissues
The liver, brain, and blood arteries are only a few of the body’s tissues that can locally convert androgens to modest levels of Estrogen.
Clinical approaches to Estrogen replacement
Many women choose hormone replacement treatment (HRT) because the drop in Estrogen levels following Menopause can cause painful symptoms and health issues like Osteoporosis.
HRT involves taking drugs containing synthetic Estrogen or an Estrogen and Progestin (synthetic progesterone) combination.
These hormones lessen the symptoms of Menopause and lower the chance of bone loss.
Food to help in Estrogen production
There are some food habits that can be beneficial for the production of Estrogen.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds, which come in small golden or brown forms, have gained significant attention for their remarkable health advantages.
One of the key reasons behind their popularity is their abundance of lignans, chemical compounds that act as Phytoestrogens.
Research indicates that these Phytoestrogens in flax seeds may be crucial in reducing the likelihood of breast cancer, particularly among postmenopausal women.
Soybeans & edamame
Soybeans offer versatile options for plant-based products like tofu and tempeh while consumed whole as edamame.
Both soybeans and edamame are associated with numerous health benefits, as they are excellent protein sources, vitamins, and minerals.
Studies indicate that soy isoflavones can reduce hot flashes’ frequency and intensity.
Furthermore, incorporating a soy-rich diet during the early stages of life may contribute to a lower risk of breast cancer.
Berries
Berries have garnered extensive praise for their vast array of remarkable health advantages.
These fruits contain essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, and beneficial plant compounds, including Phytoestrogens.
Notably, strawberries, cranberries, and raspberries are rich sources of these beneficial components.
Dried fruits
Dried fruits offer a nutrient-dense and convenient snacking option that is both delicious and hassle-free.
Moreover, they are rich in diverse Phytoestrogens, adding to their nutritional value.
Dates, prunes, and dried apricots are some of the dry fruits that generate high levels of Phytoestrogens.
Wheat bran
Wheat bran serves as an additional concentrated reservoir of Phytoestrogens, particularly lignans.
An animal study’s findings propose that micronizing wheat bran into minute particles may enhance its ability to elevate blood Estrogen levels when consumed.
Nevertheless, further research is required to comprehend the impact of wheat bran on Estrogen levels in the human body.
Conclusion
Before Menopause, Estrogen is primarily produced by the ovaries, but after Menopause, several different sources also contribute to the body’s Estrogen levels.
The peripheral conversion, adipose tissue, and adrenal glands all contribute to the maintenance of Estrogen levels, but in smaller amounts.
Understanding the sources of Estrogen after Menopause is essential for addressing the changes that take place during this time of transition in a woman’s life.
It also helps examine potential solutions for controlling symptoms and enhancing general health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does your body produce Estrogen after menopause?
Post-menopause, women no longer experience monthly menstrual periods. However, the body continues to produce limited quantities of Estrogen by converting androgens, hormones, into Estrogen. The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, produce androgens. A hormone called aromatase facilitates the conversion of androgens into Estrogen.
What organ produces Estrogen?
Estrogen is a hormone crucial for developing and controlling female sexual traits and reproductive processes. It is primarily produced by the ovaries, a component of the female reproductive system.
What type of estrogen is produced after menopause?
After Menopause, the body continues to produce Estrone as the sole type of Estrogen. Postmenopausal individuals typically exhibit higher levels of Estrone than those who are premenopausal.
What are the three main source of estrogen?
Estrogens are primarily produced in premenopausal women’s ovaries, corpus luteum, and placenta. However, nongonadal organs like the liver, heart, skin, and brain can produce a small yet noteworthy amount of Estrogens.
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