Compounds that modulate the estrogen receptor (ER) are disclosed, as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing the same. In a specific embodiment, the compounds are selective modulators for ER-.beta. over ER-.alpha.. Methods are disclosed for modulating ER-.beta. in cell and/or tissues expressing the same, including cells and/or tissue that preferentially express ER-.beta.. More generally, methods for treating estrogen-related conditions are also disclosed, including conditions such as is breast cancer, testicular cancer, osteoporosis, endometriosis, cardiovascular disease, hypercholesterolemia, prostatic hypertrophy, prostatic carcinomas, obesity, hot flashes, skin effects, mood swings, memory loss, urinary incontinence, hairloss, cataracts, natural hormonal imbalances, and adverse reproductive effects associated with exposure to environmental chemicals.