Phytoestrogens are plant-derived chemical compounds which may affect reproductive processes in humans and animals. In their target cells, phytoestrogens may mimic (estrogenic effects) or antagonize (antiestrogenic effects) action of endogenous estrogens. In the current paper, contemporary views are presented on intracellular mechanism of phytoestrogen action in ovarian, uterine, and mammary gland cells.

Phytoestrogens are biological active substances present in many plants. Phytoestrogens, mycoestrogens and xenoestrogens belong to so called environmental estrogens which may affect different biochemical processes in animals. In the review we attempt to present current knowledge on classification and occurrence of phytoestrogens as well as their metabolism and biological effects in females.