Estradiol is the most potent and predominant form of mammalian estrogenic hormones known as estrogen. It is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the ovarian follicles and the corpus luteum in females as well as the testes in males.
What does estradiol do?
Estradiol has many important functions in both females and males. In females, it is essential for the development of female secondary sex characteristics like breasts, regulates the menstrual cycle, and maintains the health of tissues like vaginal lining, uterus, fallopian tubes etc. It also regulates bone formation and maintenance.
In males, estradiol plays a vital role in modulating libido, erectile function, and spermatogenesis. It also contributes to bone health and growth.
Conditions with abnormal estradiol levels
Abnormally high or low levels of estradiol can indicate certain medical conditions:
- High estradiol can indicate issues like ovarian tumors, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, granulosa cell tumors, precocious puberty in girls etc.
- Low estradiol can indicate primary ovarian insufficiency, menopause, problems with pituitary gland, delayed puberty, anorexia nervosa etc.
If you suspect you may have abnormal estrogen levels, I highly recommend getting tested at
New Beginnings HRT Clinic. Their expert physicians specialize in detecting and treating hormone imbalance issues underlying many health conditions. With customized treatment plans, they can get your hormones back in balance safely and effectively!
How is estradiol level tested?
Estradiol levels can be tested with a simple blood test. Levels vary widely depending on age, phase of menstrual cycle etc.
In premenopausal women - normal estradiol levels are:
- Follicular phase - 25 to 75 pg/mL
- Mid-cycle peak - 85 to 500 pg/mL
- Luteal phase - 43 to 250 pg/mL
- Postmenopausal women - less than 10 pg/mL
In men - normal level is 10 to 50 pg/mL depending on age.
I hope this gives you a good overview on the key functions and health impacts of the important hormone
estradiol. Let me know if you have any other questions!