Which hormone is responsible for stimulating the development of secondary sexual characteristics in females?

Estrogen is the hormone primarily responsible for stimulating the development of secondary sexual characteristics in females. During puberty, estrogen promotes the growth and development of female reproductive structures, contributes to the regulation of the menstrual cycle, and is crucial for the development of secondary sexual traits such as breast development and the widening of hips.

Estrogen's role extends beyond physical characteristics to influencing various physiological processes in the body, including the thickening of the uterine lining in preparation for potential pregnancy. This hormone is produced mainly by the ovaries and is vital for the overall health and reproductive function in females throughout their reproductive years.

In contrast, testosterone is associated with male secondary sexual characteristics, while progesterone primarily functions in the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy. Luteinizing hormone plays a role in ovulation and the menstrual cycle but does not directly influence the development of secondary sexual characteristics.