Tissue effects

Oestrogens have a number of specific effects on tissues:

• uterus:
  • proliferation of uterine mucosa
  • strengthening of uterine smooth muscle contraction
• vagina:
  • thickening of mucosa
  • sloughing of epithelial cells
• cervix: modulation of consistency of mucus plug in order to regulate sperm transit
• gametes:
  • maturation of follicle
  • maturation of egg
  • hastens ovum transit along Fallopian tube
  • prepares sperm for junction with ovum
• hormonal:
  • feedback on release of FSH and LH
• central nervous system:
  • affects mood e.g. premenstrual tension
  • increases sexual desire
• skin:
  • increase hypodermal lipid deposits
  • reduces number of sebaceous glands
• bone:
  • decreased rate of growth
  • increased rate of epiphyseal closure
  • increased osteoblastic activity
• salt and fluid homeostasis: fluid retention
• liver metabolism: increased protein synthesis including transport globulins for various hormones
• glucose: impaired glucose tolerance