Estrogen and Testosterone: Not "Female" and "Male" Hormones, But Human Hormones
When people hear the words "estrogen" and "testosterone," they often immediately associate them with women and men, respectively. But did you know that both of these hormones are found in everyone, regardless of gender? In fact, estrogen and testosterone play essential roles in the health and well-being of all humans. Calling them “female” and “male” hormones oversimplifies their function and importance in our bodies.
Let’s dive into what these hormones do and why it’s time to rethink how we talk about them.
The Truth About Hormones
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands in our endocrine system. They travel through our bloodstream and regulate a wide variety of processes, including metabolism, growth, reproduction, and mood. While estrogen and testosterone are often categorized by their primary roles in reproductive health, they perform many functions beyond that.
Estrogen: More Than Reproductive Health
Estrogen is typically labeled as a “female hormone” because it plays a central role in menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. However, men also produce estrogen, albeit in smaller amounts. In fact, estrogen is vital for:
Bone health: Estrogen helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Heart health: It supports cardiovascular function by improving cholesterol levels and blood vessel elasticity.
Brain function: Estrogen is neuroprotective, supporting cognitive function and emotional well-being.
In men, estrogen contributes to sperm production, libido, and bone health, showing that it is far from a “female-only” hormone.
Testosterone: Not Just About Muscles
Testosterone is often labeled as a “male hormone” due to its role in male puberty, sperm production, and the development of secondary sex characteristics like a deeper voice and facial hair. But women also produce testosterone in their ovaries and adrenal glands. It plays a crucial role in:
Muscle maintenance: Testosterone helps both men and women maintain muscle mass.
Energy and motivation: It supports stamina, energy levels, and drive.
Libido: Testosterone is important for a healthy sex drive in both sexes.
Low testosterone in women can lead to fatigue, low libido, and decreased muscle strength, highlighting its importance for everyone.
Why the Labels Matter
Referring to estrogen as a "female hormone" and testosterone as a "male hormone" reinforces outdated stereotypes and can obscure the reality of hormonal health. For example:
It creates stigma: Men with higher estrogen levels or women with higher testosterone levels might feel ashamed or abnormal, even though these variations can be entirely natural or treatable.
It hinders understanding: People may overlook symptoms of hormonal imbalance because they believe these hormones only matter for the opposite sex.
Rethinking Hormonal Health
Understanding that estrogen and testosterone are essential for everyone can help shift the focus to overall hormonal balance rather than gendered norms. Common signs of hormonal imbalances, such as mood swings, fatigue, weight changes, or decreased libido, are worth addressing regardless of which hormone is involved.
As a naturopathic doctor, I encourage my patients to think about their hormones as a team. They all work together to support your body’s health and balance. If you’re experiencing symptoms that might be related to hormonal imbalance, don’t hesitate to seek support—it’s not about “male” or “female” hormones but about your health as a whole.
Final Thoughts
It’s time to retire the outdated idea that estrogen and testosterone belong to one gender. These hormones are not "female" or "male"—they are human hormones, and they are vital for everyone’s health. By recognizing their broader roles, we can break down stigmas and take a more holistic approach to hormone health.
If you’d like to learn more about how your hormones might be affecting your health or want to explore strategies for achieving hormonal balance, feel free to reach out. Understanding your body is the first step toward optimizing your wellness!
Wondering if your hormones are in balance? Get expert guidance on estrogen and testosterone health. Book a consultation with Dr. Brittany Jeffries in Kelowna today!
