Oestrogen vs. Estrogen — What's the Difference?

Oestrogen is the term used primarily in British English to describe female sex hormones that play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. These hormones are also involved in other body functions, including bone density and heart health. On the other hand, estrogen is the American English spelling of the same term and refers to the same group of hormones. The difference in spelling reflects the linguistic variations between British and American English.

While oestrogen is commonly used in countries that follow British English conventions, such as the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, estrogen is preferred in the United States and countries that follow American English conventions. This difference in spelling does not indicate any difference in the biological role or chemical composition of the hormones.

Oestrogen and estrogen are involved in various key functions beyond the reproductive system, including maintaining skin health, supporting mood regulation, and influencing body fat distribution. Despite the different spellings, the hormones referred to by both terms perform identical functions in the body.

The spelling variation can sometimes lead to confusion in international communication and scientific writing. However, the context usually makes it clear that both terms refer to the same hormones. In scientific literature, both spellings are accepted, though authors tend to use the spelling that aligns with their local variant of English.

Both oestrogen and estrogen are synthesized in the ovaries, adrenal glands, and fat tissues. They play a critical role not only in the female body but also have functions in the male body, albeit in much smaller amounts. The importance of these hormones transcends the minor differences in spelling, highlighting their universal significance in human health.