Abstract

PIP: Estrogens, whether natural or synthetic, have a wide range of clinical uses in the human female. In prepubertal females, estrogens are used in treating gonadal dysgenesis, excessive height, and genital infections. During the reproductive years, estrogens are used in managing 1) menstrual disorders (amenorrhea, menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea); 2) infertility (poor cervical mucus and anovulation); 3) pregnancy (abortion, lactation suppression); 4) dermatological disorders (acne vulgaris, hirsutism); 5) combined estrogen/progestogen usage for contraception; and 6) postcoital contraception. During the climacteric/postmenopausal years, estrogens are used in treating menopausal syndrome and breast cancer as well as various genital problems (infection, atropic vaginitis, genital prolapse). In the human male, estrogens are used in treating prostatic carcinoma and sexual problems. Estrogen therapy should be used with caution, and benefits should be weighed against the hazards. Possible side effects and alternative forms of treatment should be considered.