Estradiol

What is estradiol?

Estradiol is the most potent and predominant form of estrogen circulating in the female body. Estrogen is essential for the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.

Some key points about estradiol:

• Estradiol is produced primarily by the ovaries, but also by other tissues like fat and muscle. Its production is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis.


• It plays a vital role in the menstrual cycle, stimulating the growth of the uterine lining during the proliferative phase to prepare for potential pregnancy.


• Estradiol is involved in maintaining bone density, regulating cholesterol levels, and influencing brain function and mood.


• Levels of estradiol fluctuate throughout a woman's life during puberty, pregnancy and menopause. Measuring serum estradiol levels can help assess ovarian function and manage conditions like infertility or early menopause.

When are estradiol levels tested?

Some common reasons estradiol levels may be tested include:

• Assessing menstrual or ovarian dysfunction when menstruation is irregular, absent, or overly heavy


• Investigating infertility issues and monitoring fertility treatments


• Confirming menopause when periods have stopped


• Monitoring hormone therapy for transgender women


• Assessing conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)


• Looking for the cause of problems like decreased sex drive

If you have concerns about your reproductive health or are considering hormone testing or therapy, the physicians at HormoVital can help diagnose issues affecting your hormone levels. We provide personalized care plans to help patients achieve hormonal balance, wellness and quality of life.

How do estradiol levels change through life?

The typical pattern of estradiol levels through a woman's lifespan is:

• ⬆️ Peak at puberty to stimulate reproductive development


• Fluctuate through adulthood with the menstrual cycle


• ⬆️ Rise dramatically during pregnancy


• ⬇️ Decline in perimenopause and reach very low levels after menopause

However, in some cases like PCOS or ovarian insufficiency estradiol levels may be abnormally high or low at certain ages. Working with a knowledgeable hormone specialist can help diagnose these issues.

At HormoVital, we partner with patients throughout their hormone journey with evidence-based care to optimize reproductive health, reduce menopausal symptoms, assist fertility, and identify risks like cancers or osteoporosis.

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