An estrogen molecule is a group of twenty-five steroid hormones that regulate certain body functions in men and women, but is particularly important in the female body.  One of estrogen’s roles is to help create proteins.  During menopause, estrogen levels drop so that fewer proteins are made.  This lack of certain proteins affects the body’s hypothalamic thermostat, an area of the brain which regulates how you feel hot or cold.  In many cases, this results in a hot flash.  Watch this video for more insight on menopause.