Which is the female sex hormone?

• A. Estrogen
• B. Progesterone
• C. Testosterone
• D. Oxytocin

Answer: (A)

Estrogen is the primary hormone that drives female sexual development. It is produced mainly by the ovaries and regulates many aspects of female physiology, including the growth of secondary sexual characteristics and the menstrual cycle, by signaling the lining of the uterus to thicken and by coordinating ovulation with other hormones. Progesterone is also important in female reproduction, but its main role is preparing and maintaining the uterine lining after ovulation. Testosterone is primarily a male hormone, though females have smaller amounts. Oxytocin influences labor, breast milk release, and social bonding rather than acting as a primary sex hormone.