Final answer:
Estrogen and progesterone can influence insulin sensitivity and may contribute to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in women.
Step-by-step explanation:
Insulin resistance is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Estrogen and progesterone, the female sex hormones, can influence insulin sensitivity and may contribute to an increased risk of T2DM in women. Estrogen has been shown to enhance insulin action and improve glucose metabolism, while progesterone can reduce insulin sensitivity. Therefore, fluctuations in these hormones, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, can affect insulin resistance and potentially increase the incidence of T2DM.