The human reproductive system plays an important role in both man and woman. Beside for survival of species through reproduction, it also plays a role in producing hormones that plays a role in puberty, fertility and sexuality. Many scientists agree that the reproductive system is among the most important systems in the entire body due to the vital role of ensuring survival of humankind. In modern medicine, many issues relating to the reproductive system can be treated, diagnosed early on or preventable. One of the common treatments used to treat reproductive issues is estradiol.
Before going further on estradiol, some may be asking the differences between oestrogen and estradiol. Oestrogen is a group of hormones that plays significant roles in female reproductive health. Estradiol on the other hand is one of the three types of oestrogen aside estrone and estriol. Estradiol is also known as E2, the main oestrogen in nonpregnant women of sexually active age. It is also known as the most potent form of oestrogen.
Estradiol has many functions in the female body. The main function of estradiol is its role in ovulation and regulating menstrual cycle. It also affects the reproductive system, urinary tract, cardiovascular system such as heart and the blood vessels, musculoskeletal system such as bone and muscle, skin, hair and the brain. This shows that estradiol has many functions in a female life. The question now is, why would some females need to take estradiol in forms of medicine?
Females with menopause may need to take estradiol to help ease many symptoms that arise from menopause itself. As mentioned, estradiol helps to maintain a lot of body functions and when a female is already on menopause, the natural state of estradiol inside the body is produced less. This leads to an array of symptoms such as vaginal dryness, burning or itching, hot flushes characterised by feeling hot around the face, neck or chest, night sweats and low mood. Low estradiol in the body also increases risk for osteoporosis. Thus, taking estradiol in the form of medicine helps to increase the level of estradiol in the body and helps to ease the many symptoms of menopause.
Estradiol used for medical purposes can be in the form of topical or oral. For topical applications, estradiol topical products should be applied directly inside the vagina. This type of medicine is only used to treat vaginal symptoms of menopause. For oral estradiol such as capsule or tablet, it is taken by mouth. Oral medication can be taken with or without food as directed by doctors. It is best to take it with food or after a meal to prevent an upset stomach. Take it as a whole and never crush, chew or dissolve it unless directed by pharmacists or doctors.
Estradiol in oral form for postmenopausal women is taken daily. It would be best to take it at the same time everyday. Dose is individualised based on the patient’s menopausal symptoms. Treatment courses may vary according to individual products. Since estradiol is typically prescribed by doctors, it should be easy for patients to take it as according to the instructions given by doctors and the dosage plus product given is already catered for the patient. Common side effects such as spotting, breast pain, breast enlargement, change in libido, headaches, melasma and abdominal pain may occur when taking estradiol. Do speak to healthcare providers should there be any side effects.
In essence, estradiol as a hormone plays a lot of roles in a female life. Estradiol medicine is part of hormone therapy. It plays a significant role in women with menopause. Long course of treatment with estradiol needs discipline and perseverance in order to reap all the benefits of what the medicine can offer.
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