Sex steroids are produced by endocrine glands and are important for reproduction, sexual function, and development. Females produce primarily estrogen and progesterone, while males produce testosterone and other androgens. The production of these steroids is influenced by the release of hormones during puberty. Estrogens play a role in preparing the female body for ovulation and pregnancy, while androgens affect male characteristics. Sex steroids can be used in medical treatments, such as for cancer and menopausal symptoms.
Sex steroids are fat-soluble compounds important for reproduction, sexual function and sexual development. The endocrine glands are responsible for producing sex steroids in both men and women. In most humans, sex steroids are secreted over a lifetime, although levels of production and release often vary. For example, the level of output often increases as a person reaches puberty and then decreases as they get older.
Although both females and males produce sex steroids, females typically produce primarily estrogen and progesterone. Males, on the other hand, usually produce testosterone and other androgens, which are hormones that control characteristics that are primarily male. Interestingly, females also have androgens and males have estrogens in their bodies. Androgens produced in the female body usually convert to estrogen. Similarly, some of a male’s androgens also become estrogens.
The processes that influence the production of these steroids are both complicated and interesting. When a human reaches puberty, a gland in the brain produces more of a substance called gonadotropin-releasing hormone. In turn, the increased production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone causes the pituitary gland to release hormones that are critical for the production of sex steroids. These hormones are referred to as follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. The release of these hormones stimulates the production of these steroids in both males and females.
Estrogens produced by the female body play an important role in preparing the body for ovulation and pregnancy. They also influence the development of female sexual characteristics, including breast growth and the development of the female pelvis. Estrogen also plays a role in how fat and muscle are distributed in the female body. Progesterone is vital in sustaining a pregnancy and affects the conditions within the uterus.
The male production of testosterone and androsterone, both androgens, takes place in the testicles. Testosterone is essential for the formation of sperm. As with estrogens affecting the development of female characteristics, androgens affect male characteristics. For example, they affect muscle growth as well as body hair and deeper voices typical of males. They also influence the development of the male sexual organs.
Sex steroids occur naturally in the human body, but can also be used in medical treatments. For example, doctors may use them in the treatment of various types of cancer. They may also prove useful for treating menopausal symptoms. In fact, these hormones may even help in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.
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