What Is the Effect of Estrogen on Men?

Introduction

Estrogen is an important part of a woman's body. It's a hormone that determines sexual characteristics, helps during pregnancy and fetal development, and is part of the overall reproductive health of a woman. However, estrogen is also present and an important part of men's health.

Bone Density

In a study conducted by Shreyasee Amin, M.D., it was discovered that estrogen plays an important part in bone mineral density, especially when men begin to reach an elderly age. Men with low estrogen levels were found to have many more problems with hip bone breaks and fractures than men with adequate levels of the hormone.

Sperm

Estrogen also has an important part in the creation of sperm in the testicles. Male reproductive tissue has special estrogen receptors built in. Before ejaculation occurs, much of the liquid in semen is absorbed back into the body in the epididymis. It's with the help of estrogen that this occurs. If this didn't occur, the sperm solution wouldn't be concentrated enough to attain fertility.

Libido

Estrogen is also believed to play a part in the strength of the libido in men. Your libido is what gives you the desire--and in some ways the ability--to have sex. The lack of a strong libido can cause problems, most commonly erectile dysfunction (the inability to get an erection). Estrogen supplements are sometimes used to combat a low libido for men and women.

Resources

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