Sex hormones

What are Sex hormones?

Sex hormones are steroid hormones that are mainly produced by the testes or the ovaries. Sex hormones are responsible for controlling reproductive function and sexual development. Estrogens and progestins are female sex hormones and androgens are male sex hormones.

The main reproductive hormones estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone are instrumental in sexuality and fertility. They are responsible for pregnancy, puberty, menstruation, menopause, sex drive, sperm production and more. These hormones are produced in the ovaries (in females) and testes (in males).

During sex, your body releases feel-good hormones such as endorphins, oxytocin, and dopamine. These hormones help reduce stress, boost your mood, and deepen emotional intimacy with your partner — all of which contribute to better mental health.

The main hormones responsible for sexual and reproductive health are estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. These hormones play critical roles in pregnancy, puberty, menstruation, sex drive, sperm production and more—and interestingly, all three are present in males and females.

Testosterone is the main sex hormone in men. Most testosterone is made in the testes (testicles). Small amounts are also made in your adrenal gland (in the kidney).

As oxytocin is associated with trust, sexual arousal and relationship building, it’s sometimes referred to as the “love hormone” or “cuddle chemical.” Oxytocin levels also increase when you’re hugging someone and when you’re experiencing an orgasm.

What is estrogen? Estrogens are a group of hormones that play an important role in the normal sexual and reproductive development in women. They are also sex hormones. The woman’s ovaries make most estrogen hormones, although the adrenal glands and fat cells also make small amounts of the hormones.

Some people experience heightened arousal during menstruation, whereas others prefer to abstain. Both choices are perfectly normal and valid. From a medical perspective, having sex while on period is generally safe for most people.