Estradiol Test

Estradiol test measures the levels of estradiol in blood. Estradiol is a form of estrogen hormone which plays an important role in the function and development of reproductive organs and in the formation of secondary sex characteristics in females. It regulates the menstrual cycle in women along with progesterone. Other functions of estrogen along with progesterone include the growth of breasts and uterus. Estrogen hormone is also found in men. It regulates growth and metabolism in both males and females. In men, estradiol is produced in testicles while in pre-menopausal women it is produced in ovaries. In postmenopausal women, estradiol is converted into estrone. Estradiol is present in high levels in non-pregnant and pre-menopausal women. Depending upon the age of the women and her reproductive status the values of estradiol varies. It is considered to be one of the good markers as regards to ovarian function.

At birth, the levels of estradiol are high but the levels fall within a few days and become minimal during early childhood. As puberty approaches the levels of estradiol rise. During the menstrual cycle, its levels vary depending upon the ongoing menstrual cycle phase. During menopause, the levels of estradiol fall as the production by ovaries decreases.