Use

Obtaining an estradiol blood is a valuable tool for assessing hormone balance, particularly in individuals undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), fertility treatments, or those with symptoms of hormonal imbalances. Estradiol, the primary and most potent form of estrogen, plays a crucial role in reproductive health, bone density, cardiovascular function, and overall well-being. Monitoring estradiol levels helps ensure that hormone therapy is effectively tailored to the patient’s needs, preventing potential side effects such as estrogen dominance or deficiency, which can lead to issues like mood disturbances, weight fluctuations, fatigue, or bone loss. In women, measuring estradiol is essential for evaluating menstrual irregularities, menopause management, and ovarian function, while in men, it can help identify imbalances affecting testosterone-to-estrogen ratios, which are critical for metabolic and cardiovascular health.

Beyond addressing overt hormone deficiencies or excesses, estradiol level monitoring is increasingly utilized for health optimization, particularly in the context of longevity and metabolic health. Proper estrogen balance is necessary for maintaining cognitive function, cardiovascular resilience, and musculoskeletal integrity. In bioidentical hormone therapy and functional medicine approaches, estradiol testing allows for precise dosing adjustments, minimizing risks such as thrombotic events or estrogen-driven conditions like gynecomastia in men. Additionally, optimizing estradiol levels can enhance physical performance, libido, and mental clarity, making it a key biomarker in personalized medicine strategies. Regular monitoring in outpatient settings ensures that individuals can proactively manage their hormone health, reducing the risk of chronic disease while enhancing vitality and quality of life.

E2 (Estradiol) levels in children, postmenopausal women, and men are much lower than in women of reproductive age. Estradiol levels tend to fluctuate dramatically during the perimenopausal transition. There is significant overlap of the expected range in menopausal women with values observed during normal menstrual cycles. Estradiol results obtained with different assay methods cannot be used interchangeably in serial testing. To monitor a patient’s serial results, it is best to ensure that the same methodology is used each time the test is performed.

Preparation 

Patients stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.

Due to the risk of cross-reactivity, this estradiol assay should not be used when monitoring estradiol levels in patients treated with fulvestrant (Faslodex®).