The recognized functions of oestrogens are to:
• stimulate growth of the vagina,uterus and oviducts in childhood
• increase the thickness of the vaginal wall and distal one-third of the urethra by increased stratification of the epithelium
• reduce vaginal pH by the action of the Doderlein’s bacillus on the glycogen to form lactic acid
• decrease viscosity of cervical mucus to facilitate sperm penetration
• facilitate the development of primordial follicles
• inhibit follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion
• stimulate proliferation of the endometrium
• increase myometrial contractility
• stimulate growth of breasts with duct proliferation
• promote calcification of bone
• promote female fat distribution
• promote female hair distribution