oestrogen

/ ˌɛstrəˈdʒɛnɪk; ˌiːstrəˈdʒɛnɪk; ˈɛstrə-; ˌiːstrə-; ˌɛstrə-; ˈiːstrədʒən /

noun

1. any of several steroid hormones, that are secreted chiefly by the ovaries and placenta, that induce oestrus, stimulate changes in the female reproductive organs during the oestrous cycle, and promote development of female secondary sexual characteristics

Derived Forms

• ˌoestroˈgenically, adverb
• oestrogenic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of oestrogen¹

C20: from oestrus + -gen

Example Sentences

“We don't have enough brands of oestrogen patches and progesterone creams that we need in India.”

From BBC

HRT replaces the hormones oestrogen or progestogen, or both, when women's periods stop - normally between the ages of 45 and 55.

From BBC

HRT tops up hormones like oestrogen, which start dipping around the time of the menopause, and can help to relieve symptoms.

From BBC

It contains oestrogen, which reduces symptoms - but as this can thicken the womb lining, another hormone, progesterone, is often prescribed to protect the womb.

From BBC

"I don't know if it's the oestrogen," she jokes, "but I do prefer wine now."

From BBC