

These are natural estrogen’s our bodies produce. Phytoestrogens have been shown to have a weaker estrogenic effect than our own endogenous estrogens, or xenoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are compounds found in plants, that also have the ability to bind to estrogen receptor sites and mimic our natural endogenous estrogens. Xenoestrogens bind to our estrogen receptor sites, producing an estrogenic affect. Some of these endocrine disruptors are called xenoestrogens. With the advancement of science and technology, we have come to learn that there are human-made chemical toxins in our environment, known as endocrine disruptors. Types of Estrogen: Natural & SyntheticĪs more and more couples are diagnosed with infertility, more questions arise about estrogen’s role in infertility. This stimulates the uterine lining to shed, starting a new menstrual cycle. If the egg is not fertilized, it gradually disintegrates, no longer producing progesterone and estrogen declines. Estrogen remains relatively high, though progesterone levels gradually increase in preparation for fertilization. Both estrogen and progesterone stimulate the uterine lining to thicken. The closed follicle produces the corpus luteum. Estrogen levels peak during this time, progesterone begins to increase. LH surges, signaling the follicle to open and release the mature egg, this is ovulation. Estrogen levels continue to rise and signal the pituitary gland to release Lutenizing Hormone (LH). The rising estrogen level signals the pituitary gland to curb release of FSH. As the follicles begin maturing they release an increasing amount of the hormone estrogen. The release of FSH signals some of the follicles in the ovary to begin maturing. The pituitary gland begins releasing Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Throughout a woman’s life her ovaries contain thousands of follicles, and these follicles contain eggs.

The first phase of the menstrual cycle is called the follicular phase. Estrogen is essential for healthy bone formation, healthy gene expression, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, and is vital for a healthy menstrual cycle. Estrogens are primary female reproductive messengers. Have you ever questioned the role of estrogen for your fertility? Most people relate the hormone estrogen to women.
