Estrogen

Name:
Estrogen
Detailed information:
A general term for female sex hormones. They are responsible for the development of the female secondary sex characteristics, such as the deposition of fat and the development of the breasts. The naturally occurring estrogens, such as estradiol, estrone, and estriol, are steroids. Estrogens are produced by the ovary and, to a lesser degree, by the adrenal cortex and testis. Some synthetic nonsteroid compounds such as diethylstilbestrol and hexestrol have estrogenic activity.

Hazard:

Carcinogenic, damaging side effects (thromboembolism).

Use:

Medicine, biochemical research, oral contraceptives.

See Antifertility Agent.