Estradiol Meaning: Definition and Examples
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estradiol
[ɛstrəˈdaɪɔl ]
Definition
hormone function
Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. It is produced mainly in the ovaries and is essential for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics and reproduction. Additionally, estradiol has significant effects on other tissues, such as the bones and the brain.
Synonyms
E2, estrogen, female hormone.
Examples of usage
- Estradiol levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle.
- Doctors may prescribe estradiol for hormone replacement therapy.
- Low levels of estradiol can lead to various health issues.
- Estradiol plays a role in bone density maintenance.
- Research on estradiol helps us understand its impact on mood.
Interesting Facts
Health & Medicine
- Estradiol plays a critical role in bone health, helping to prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
- Its levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, affecting mood, skin, and overall well-being.
Pop Culture
- Estradiol and other hormones have inspired numerous films and books highlighting women's health issues.
- The rise of hormone replacement therapy in the late 20th century sparked conversations about women's wellness in media.
Science
- Research shows that lower levels of estradiol can impact cognitive functions and memory in aging women.
- It interacts with many other hormones in the body, creating a complex network essential for reproductive health.
Psychology
- Studies suggest fluctuations in estradiol levels can influence emotional states and behaviors, particularly in relation to stress.
- Negative body image among women may be linked to societal pressures around estrogen and its effects on physical appearance.
Origin of 'estradiol'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'estradiol' comes from 'estrus', relating to the female reproductive cycle, and 'diol', indicating it's a type of alcohol.
- It was first synthesized in the 1930s, marking a significant advancement in hormonal research.
The term 'estradiol' is derived from the chemical nomenclature of estrogens, which are a group of steroid hormones. The prefix 'estr-' is derived from the word 'oestrus,' referring to the period of heightened sexual receptivity in female mammals, while 'diol' indicates the presence of two hydroxyl (–OH) groups in its molecular structure. Estradiol was first isolated from the urine of pregnant women in the 1920s and subsequently synthesized in laboratories. Over the years, its role in women's health, particularly in relation to menstruation, menopause, and hormone replacement therapies, has become a significant area of research. The understanding of estradiol's functions has evolved, highlighting its broader impacts on cardiovascular health, bone density, and mental well-being.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #18,074, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 18071 misrepresented
- 18072 confessional
- 18073 warped
- 18074 estradiol
- 18075 reaping
- 18076 pith
- 18077 signalled
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