Estrogen - any of a group of steroid hormones which promote the development and maintenance of female characteristics of the body.
Such hormones are also produced artificially for use in oral contraceptives or to treat menopausal and menstrual disorders.
In females, it helps develop and maintain both the reproductive system and female characteristics, such as breasts and pubic hair.
Estrogen contributes to cognitive health, bone health, the function of the cardiovascular system , and other essential bodily processes.
Estrogen is often used in feminizing hormone therapy. It is involved in many of the physical and emotional changes seen in transition.
Estrogen may be given as a pill, by injection, or by a number of skin preparations such as a gel, spray or a patch.