Estrogen and progesterone are both steroid hormones crucial for female reproductive health, but they serve distinct and complementary roles. They both regulate the development and functioning of the uterus by regulating the transcription of certain genes.
Key Differences Between Estrogen and Progesterone
Here's a breakdown of the key differences between these two hormones:
| Feature | Estrogen | Progesterone |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Regulates the menstrual cycle. | Supports pregnancy. |
| Function | Development of female sexual characteristics, bone health, mood regulation. | Prepares the uterine lining for implantation, maintains pregnancy, prevents uterine contractions. |
| Timing | Levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, peaking before ovulation. | Levels rise after ovulation and remain elevated during pregnancy. |
In Detail
While both hormones are present throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, their levels and impact vary.
- Estrogen's Role: Estrogen is primarily responsible for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, such as breasts and wider hips. It also plays a significant role in maintaining bone density, regulating mood, and, according to the provided reference, regulating the menstrual cycle.
- Progesterone's Role: Progesterone's main job is to prepare the uterus for pregnancy and maintain it. It thickens the uterine lining to create a suitable environment for a fertilized egg to implant. As the provided reference mentions, it supports pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone levels remain high to prevent uterine contractions and support the developing fetus.
