The effect of using estrogens in the light of scientific research.

Estrogens are female sex hormones, belonging to a group of steroid hormones, derivatives of cholesterol. These hormones can be divided in terms of origin: natural and synthetic. Biologically, the most active is estradiol (E2). Estrogens are responsible for the development of tertiary sexual characteristics and a number of metabolic processes. In our environment there are many substances, metals and toxins which can mimic the biological functions of estrogens. Due to its characteristics, it can induce cell proliferation and stimulate tumor development. Estrogens are subject to a complex metabolism that, inadequately controlled, can lead to toxic derivatives. Catecholestrogens quinones (CE-Q) interact with DNA and form depurinating adducts disturbing cellular processes. By affecting cell proliferation, it can stimulate the formation of mutation and carcinogenesis, by stimulating the production of free radicals exhibiting genotoxicity. Estrogens are mostly used in hormone replacement therapy and hormonal contraception. There are three main sources of administration of preparations containing estrogen: oral, vaginal and percutaneous. The latter two are characterized by a lack of a so-called "first pass effect". Numerous studies carried out on estrogens (both natural and synthetic) demonstrate the possibility of their detrimental function on the human body. Through its impact on clotting factors, it increases the risk of thrombosis and is considered to participate in the formation of cancer of the breast and uterus. That is why the introduction of estrogen therapy should always be preceded by a careful assessment of individual circumstances and the balance between potential benefits and risks.