Estradiol

Estradiol is the most active form of estrogen, a female sex hormone. When testing for estrogen in the blood, S-estradiol is most often analyzed, as it is the form that has the greatest impact on the body.

Blood tests for estradiol are used to evaluate hormonal balance, in fertility investigations, suspected menopause, menstrual disorders, or in hormone therapy. In men, the test can be used to investigate hormonal imbalance.

The concentration of estradiol varies and is highly individual. Normal values ​​for estradiol also vary depending on gender, age and where in the menstrual cycle a woman is. Generally, levels in women of childbearing age are between 100–1000 pmol/l, but reference values ​​also differ between laboratories. After menopause, levels drop to below 200 pmol/l.

Estradiol affects the menstrual cycle, fertility, bone mass, skin, mucous membranes and mood. Low levels can cause symptoms such as dry mucous membranes, hot flashes and reduced sex drive. High levels can cause PMS, weight gain and irregular periods.

Yes, men can also analyze estradiol if there is a suspicion of hormonal imbalance, e.g. in case of gynecomastia (breast development), fertility problems or suspected testosterone deficiency. Normal levels in men are significantly lower than in women, usually below 200 pmol/l and elevated levels occur mainly during ongoing hormonal treatment or external administration of testosterone/androgens.

Estrogen deficiency, especially low levels of estradiol, can cause a range of physical and psychological symptoms that affect quality of life. Common signs include hot flashes, sweating, dry mucous membranes (especially in the genital area), decreased sex drive, fatigue, depression, difficulty concentrating and sleep problems. Other possible symptoms include palpitations, decreased bone density (risk of osteoporosis), joint and muscle pain, and changes in skin and hair.

These symptoms can occur naturally in connection with menopause, but some women can also suffer from estrogen deficiency at a younger age, e.g. in premature menopause, after pregnancy or due to certain diseases or treatments. To find out if your symptoms are due to estrogen deficiency, a blood test for S-estradiol is recommended. The test provides a clear picture of your current estrogen levels. Together with an assessment of your symptoms, this can form the basis for further investigation and possible hormone treatment.

It is important that the sample is taken taking into account your menstrual cycle, as estradiol levels vary greatly during the different phases of the cycle. In postmenopausal women, levels remain consistently low, and sampling can be done at any time.

Yes, the use of birth control pills and other hormonal contraceptives can of course affect the estradiol concentration in the blood. Combined birth control pills contain both synthetic estrogen and progestin, which can inhibit the body's own production of natural estrogen. This means that the levels of S-estradiol are often lower when using birth control pills compared to women who do not use hormonal contraceptives. Therefore, it can be difficult to interpret estradiol values ​​correctly during ongoing use. If you want to get a more accurate picture of your natural hormone levels, it may be a good idea to take the test after a break from birth control pills, in consultation with a doctor.

High levels of estradiol can occur naturally during certain phases of the menstrual cycle, especially before ovulation. If estradiol is abnormally elevated outside of these periods, it may be due to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), estrogen-producing tumors, obesity, or hormonal stimulation during fertility treatments. High estradiol levels can cause symptoms such as breast tenderness, swelling, weight gain, irregular periods, and increased PMS. In some cases, high levels can contribute to the risk of blood clots or increased cell growth in the uterine lining. Investigation is recommended if values ​​are persistently high.

Estrogen dominance means that the body has relatively high levels of estrogen in relation to progesterone. The condition can cause symptoms such as swelling, weight gain, breast tenderness, mood swings, severe PMS, and irregular periods. Estrogen dominance can occur naturally due to hormonal imbalances, stress (which reduces progesterone), the use of certain hormonal preparations, or poor liver function that makes it difficult to break down estrogen. A blood test that measures both estradiol and progesterone can help assess the balance between these hormones.

Yes, estrogen deficiency also occurs in women of childbearing age. This can be caused by conditions such as premature menopause (before age 40), hypothalamic amenorrhea (often related to low body weight, strenuous exercise, or stress), certain autoimmune diseases, or after surgical removal of the ovaries. Estrogen deficiency in childbearing age can cause symptoms similar to those of menopause, such as hot flashes, dry mucous membranes, fatigue, mood swings, and infertility. A blood test for S-estradiol in combination with FSH and LH can help identify hormone deficiency and lead to the right treatment.