06/02/2026
Estradiol isn’t the whole estrogen story.
While estradiol (E2) is the primary estrogen used in conventional hormone replacement therapy, another estrogen—estriol (E3)—may offer unique physiologic benefits through its interaction with estrogen receptor beta (ERβ).
ERβ receptors are widely distributed throughout the body and may influence:
✔️ Mood and serotonin pathways
✔️ Immune system function
✔️ Gut barrier integrity
✔️ Cognitive health
✔️ Healthy aging
Contrary to popular belief, estriol is not produced only during pregnancy. Women make estriol throughout life, although levels increase significantly during pregnancy.
This is one reason I often utilize compounded Biest, which combines estradiol and estriol, allowing for a more individualized approach to hormone optimization.
Hormone replacement should never be a cookie-cutter protocol. The right therapy depends on symptoms, lab data, health history, and individual goals.
If you’re taking hormones but still don’t feel like yourself, it may be time for a deeper evaluation.
📍AZ Integrative & Functional Medicine
📞 480-744-7110
Comment “HORMONES” if you’d like more information about personalized bioidentical hormone therapy.
’sHealth