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Estrogen is the hormone primarily responsible for the development of female sex characteristics. It plays a critical role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle, the development of breast tissue, and the maturation of reproductive organs such as the uterus and ovaries. During puberty, increased levels of estrogen promote the development of secondary sexual characteristics in females, including the widening of hips, the development of breast tissue, and the distribution of body fat in a typically female pattern.

Estrogen functions by binding to estrogen receptors found in various tissues throughout the body, triggering a wide range of biological effects that are essential for female reproductive health and overall well-being. The influence of estrogen extends beyond sexual characteristics; it also plays important roles in bone density, cardiovascular health, and even mood regulation.

Other hormones mentioned, such as progesterone, testosterone, and androgen, do not have the same primary role in the establishment of female sex characteristics. Progesterone is mainly involved in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy. Testosterone, while present in both males and females, is primarily associated with male secondary sexual characteristics. Androgen refers to a group of hormones that includes testosterone, and while they are present in females, their influence on biological traits is largely overshadowed by estrogen in the context of sexual differentiation