What hormone is primarily produced by the ovaries and is known to stimulate bone remodeling?

The hormone primarily produced by the ovaries that stimulates bone remodeling is estrogen. Estrogen plays a crucial role in bone health by promoting the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, while inhibiting osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue. This balance helps to maintain bone density and strength, especially during and after menopause when estrogen levels decrease significantly, leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis.

Estrogen's influence extends beyond bone health; it helps regulate various metabolic processes throughout the body. As a result, maintaining adequate estrogen levels is vital for preserving skeletal integrity and overall health in women.

In contrast, while progesterone does have a role in reproductive health, it is not primarily associated with bone remodeling. Testosterone, although produced in small amounts by the ovaries and significantly more by the testes in males, is more closely linked to muscle mass and strength than to direct stimulation of bone remodeling processes. Cortisol, a hormone released during stress, has the opposite effect on bones, as chronic high levels can lead to bone loss. Therefore, estrogen stands out as the key hormone among the options listed for its direct role in stimulating bone remodeling and maintaining bone health.