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Estradiol is the main form of estrogen in people assigned female at birth (AFAB) and is produced by the ovaries. It is one of the main sex hormones responsible for ovulation, bone development, female secondary sex characteristics, and optimal brain and reproductive system function.

Cortisol, often referred to as your body’s “stress hormone,” is produced in the adrenal glands and is released in response to stressors like illness and exercise. It also helps to control blood sugar levels and regulates energy metabolism.

In people AFAB, it is primarily produced by the ovaries, with a small amount produced by the adrenal glands. A large portion is converted to estrogen by an enzyme called aromatase. While commonly regarded as a male sex hormone, testosterone is important for bone density, libido, body fat distribution, and supporting muscle mass across all sexes.

Progesterone helps to maintain the endometrium, or lining of the uterus, and helps to support pregnancy. When an individual enters menopause, progesterone production significantly decreases.

It is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that is responsible for controlling the production of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 by the thyroid gland. TSH is considered the most sensitive marker for screening for thyroid diseases and conditions.

DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is an androgen hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands, but in people assigned female at birth (AFAB), a small amount is also produced by the ovaries. It is a precursor to some other hormones in the body, such as testosterone and estrogen.