Oestradiol (E2)
Hormones
Oestradiol, a form of estrogen, is pivotal for the development and function of female reproductive tissues, regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. It’s also vital for bone density, cardiovascular health, and mood in both sexes.
Primarily produced in the ovaries in premenopausal women, oestradiol is also synthesized in smaller amounts by other tissues in women and men.
Testing oestradiol levels is crucial for fertility assessment, diagnosing menstrual irregularities, determining menopausal status, or monitoring hormone therapy.
Low levels may cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and osteoporosis, while high levels could indicate conditions like ovarian tumors or estrogen dominance.
Oestradiol isn’t exclusive to women; men also rely on it for bone health, fertility, brain function, cardiovascular health, fat metabolism, and muscle health. In men, it’s synthesized mainly through testosterone conversion by aromatase.
Imbalances in men, such as high levels causing gynecomastia and low levels leading to osteoporosis, underscore the importance of maintaining oestradiol balance for overall health.
Note: This is only tested in the Well Woman blood test.
