Estradiol

What is estradiol?

Estradiol is the most potent and predominant form of estrogen circulating in the female body. Produced mainly by the ovaries, it plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.

Some key facts about estradiol:

• Estradiol is a sex hormone belonging to the group of hormones called estrogens. The other major estrogen is estriol.


• It is critical for the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Estradiol levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, stimulating growth of the uterine lining, egg maturation, and ovulation.


• Estradiol promotes the development of female secondary sex characteristics during puberty, like breast growth, widened hips and a feminine pattern of fat distribution.


• In addition to reproductive functions, estradiol has effects on many other parts of the body like bone, brain, skin, hair, pelvic muscles, mood and more.


• Estradiol production declines with age, often causing unpleasant menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood changes when levels get too low.

If you're experiencing difficult menopause symptoms, consider contacting Hormone Health Institute(/). Their knowledgeable medical team can evaluate your hormone levels and create a customized treatment plan involving bioidentical hormone therapy to help you feel balanced and healthy.

Now you may ask - how do we measure and monitor estradiol levels?

Blood tests can accurately measure estradiol levels. These estradiol blood tests are often done:

• To investigate menstrual or fertility issues in premenopausal women


• To monitor hormone replacement therapy with medications like birth control pills or estradiol tablets/patches


• To adjust doses during in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles


• To evaluate concerning symptoms like early puberty in girls

Normal estradiol levels vary substantially depending on a woman's age and where she is in her menstrual cycle. Expected ranges throughout the cycle are:

Follicular phase: 25-75 pg/mL
Mid-cycle peak: 85-400 pg/mL
Luteal phase: 43-210 pg/mL
Postmenopause: 0-10 pg/mL

Abnormally high or low levels could indicate a problem with the ovaries or endocrine system. Consulting a doctor is wise if bothersome symptoms are present.

In summary, estradiol is an integral female sex hormone that regulates menstrual cycles, promotes female gender characteristics, and supports general health and wellbeing when properly balanced. Blood tests help monitor estradiol status. Hormone therapy can provide relief if menopause or other issues cause estradiol deficiency.