Oestradiol

When we talk about oestrogen in the context of the menstrual cycle, we’re primarily talking about oestradiol. “Oestradiol helps to mature and maintain the reproductive system,” Fogarty-Draper explains. “The strongest of the three types of oestrogen, it’s the main one made by the female body, and produced in the ovaries.”

Fluctuations in oestradiol that occur during the luteal phase can contribute to PMS symptoms, such as mood shifts and breast tenderness.

Oestriol

Oestriol levels remain low for most of our lives, until we get pregnant. It’s at that point where it starts to be made in much higher amounts by the placenta, with levels increasing throughout pregnancy and reaching their highest just before birth.

“It helps the uterus to grow and stay healthy and, when needed, it prepares the body for childbirth and breastfeeding,” Fogarty-Draper says.

Oestrone

While oestradiol levels drop during menopause, the body still produces oestrogen – just in the form of oestrone instead.

“Oestrone is the major oestrogen for post-menopausal women, and it’s produced by the adrenal glands and fatty tissue,” Fogarty-Draper explains. “Low levels can worsen fatigue, osteoporosis and hot flushes and can lead to low mood and low libido.”

There are 3 different ‘types’ of oestrogen – here’s what they do