Oestrogen

What does oestrogen mean?

Oestrogen: A key reproductive hormone (estrogen in the US). Found in combined methods: the combined pill, patch and ring.

How it is used in the Splash library

• Rising oestrogen is what makes it wet and stretchy, which helps sperm swim and survive.

  From “Cervical mucus and cervix position”

• Desire tended to be higher when oestrogen was higher and lower when progesterone was higher.

  From “Libido through your cycle”

• The leading idea is that some people are more sensitive to the normal rise and fall of oestrogen and progesterone, and to brain chemicals such as serotonin.

  From “PMS: the week-before, decoded”

• NICE says that after menopause, low-dose vaginal oestrogen can be considered for repeat UTIs when hygiene and behaviour changes are not enough.

  From “UTIs: burning questions answered”

• The combined pill contains two hormones, Oestrogen and progestogen, and works by stopping your ovaries releasing an egg each month.

  From “The combined pill”

Oestrogen explained

Oestrogen is a group of hormones, mainly made by the ovaries, that drive much of the menstrual cycle. It rebuilds the womb lining after a period, thins cervical mucus around ovulation and triggers the LH surge.

It also matters well beyond periods: it helps keep bones strong, supports heart health, keeps vaginal and urinary tissue healthy, and affects mood, skin and sleep.

What's typical

Oestrogen rises through the follicular phase and peaks just before ovulation. It dips, rises again a little in the luteal phase, then falls before your period.

Levels fall during perimenopause and menopause, which causes symptoms like hot flushes and vaginal dryness and increases the risk of osteoporosis.

The combined pill, patch and ring contain a synthetic oestrogen, and HRT replaces it after menopause.

When to talk to a GP, nurse or pharmacist

• Your periods have stopped for 3 months or more, which can mean low oestrogen, for example from under-eating, intense exercise or POI.
• You have menopause symptoms before 45, or symptoms that affect your daily life.
• You get migraine with aura and use or are thinking about combined hormonal contraception: speak to a GP or pharmacist.

In the UK you can call NHS 111 for advice at any time. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). This is general information, not medical advice.