What is needed to make estrogen?

To produce estrogen, the body primarily requires cholesterol, which serves as the foundational building block for steroid hormones. The process involves several enzymes that convert cholesterol into pregnenolone, which is then transformed through various pathways into different forms of estrogen, primarily estradiol, estrone, and estriol. Additionally, the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat tissues play crucial roles in the synthesis and regulation of estrogen levels. Proper hormonal signals and health of the endocrine system are also essential for optimal estrogen production.