The hormone that makes you more feminine is estrogen (specifically estradiol).
The Role of Estrogen in Feminization
Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone and is crucial for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics. According to the provided reference, changes from estrogen therapy typically include:
- Softer skin and decreased oiliness: Estrogen promotes skin hydration, resulting in smoother and less oily skin.
- Increased body fat storage in your hips, buttocks, and face: Estrogen influences fat distribution, leading to a more feminine body shape.
Understanding Estrogen's Impact
Estrogen impacts various bodily functions, including:
- Reproductive system: It plays a vital role in the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and pregnancy.
- Bone health: Estrogen helps maintain bone density and strength.
- Cardiovascular health: It can positively affect cholesterol levels and blood vessel health.
- Brain function: Estrogen impacts cognitive function and mood regulation.
How Estrogen Affects Secondary Sex Characteristics
The effects of estrogen are observable in several secondary sexual characteristics:
Feature | Effect of Estrogen |
---|---|
Skin | Softer, less oily |
Body Fat | Increased in hips, buttocks, face |
Breast tissue | Development of breasts |
Voice | Higher pitch |
In Summary
Estrogen, and specifically estradiol, is the primary hormone that drives feminization by influencing various aspects of the body, leading to the development of female secondary sexual characteristics such as softer skin, increased fat in the hips and buttocks, and breast development.