Hormone Replacement Therapy Explained

9. What Are Estrogen And Progesterone?

Estrogen and progesterone are hormones needed to prepare the uterus for menstruation. Their release is triggered by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. Once a woman hits puberty, she releases an egg each month until she hits menopause. Estrogen and progesterone are also needed to support blood cholesterol control, bone health, and calcium metabolism. Low levels of these hormones are linked to a reduced sex drive, migraine headaches, abnormal uterine bleeding, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. Many women take hormone replacement therapy to mitigate these symptoms.