Which estrogen is predominant after menopause?

Which estrogen is predominant after menopause?

• A. Estradiol
• B. Estrone sulfate
• C. Estriol
• D. Estrone

Answer: (D)

After menopause, ovarian production of estrogens drops dramatically, so the body relies on peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogens in tissues like adipose tissue. This shift makes estrone the main circulating estrogen in postmenopausal women. Estrone is produced from androstenedione via aromatase, and while it is less potent than estradiol, it remains the predominant estrogen because ovarian estradiol production has essentially ceased. Estradiol declines most, estriol is mainly associated with pregnancy and metabolism, and estrone sulfate is a storage form rather than the primary circulating estrogen. Therefore, estrone is the best answer.

After menopause, ovarian production of estrogens drops dramatically, so the body relies on peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogens in tissues like adipose tissue. This shift makes estrone the main circulating estrogen in postmenopausal women. Estrone is produced from androstenedione via aromatase, and while it is less potent than estradiol, it remains the predominant estrogen because ovarian estradiol production has essentially ceased. Estradiol declines most, estriol is mainly associated with pregnancy and metabolism, and estrone sulfate is a storage form rather than the primary circulating estrogen. Therefore, estrone is the best answer.