Follicular Phase Hormones: Estrogen

Estrogen is an essential hormone for women, particularly for pregnancy and childbirth. The follicular phase is a period when estrogen levels are high. Estrogen plays a crucial role not only for women who are pregnant or hoping to conceive but also in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Estrogen has many positive effects on the body:

Shapes a rounded, feminine body

Helps thicken the uterine lining, facilitating the implantation of a fertilized egg

Promotes the secretion of cervical mucus, allowing easier entry of sperm into the uterus

Supports bone formation and inhibits blood vessel constriction

Enhances skin and hair quality

Why does estrogen affect skin and hair? Estrogen actually aids in collagen production within the body. When estrogen binds with a protein called the "nuclear receptor" inside cells, it stimulates collagen production. Collagen abundance helps create plump skin and thicker, more resilient hair. Estrogen also promotes the production of proteoglycans, which are essential for skin moisture.

Estrogen levels change with age.

Estrogen secretion begins at the onset of menstruation and continues to be active until the mid-30s. However, as ovarian function declines, estrogen secretion gradually decreases from around the 40s onward. In old age, estrogen production almost completely ceases.

Although estrogen levels naturally decline with age, its effects can still be maximized.

One key approach is the intake of soy isoflavones.

The molecular structure of soy isoflavones resembles that of estrogen, allowing them to mimic estrogen’s effects. Soy isoflavones are abundant in soy products such as natto, tofu, and miso. Incorporating soy products into your daily diet is recommended.

It is also possible to increase estrogen levels through hormone medications or supplements. However, excessive estrogen intake may cause the uterine lining to continue growing, potentially leading to endometrial cancer. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when using supplements, and consult an obstetrician-gynecologist when considering hormone therapy.