What is the Oestradiol test?

The Oestradiol (E2) test measures levels of oestradiol, the most biologically active form of oestrogen. Oestradiol is produced mainly by the ovaries in women, the testes in men, and in smaller amounts by adrenal tissue and fat cells.

This hormone plays a key role in the menstrual cycle, ovulation, bone health, cardiovascular function, mood regulation, and sexual development. In men, oestradiol is important for bone density, libido, and overall hormonal balance.

The test is used in both women and men to assess endocrine and reproductive health.

Why do I need an Oestradiol test?

Oestradiol imbalance can cause a wide range of symptoms and may affect fertility, menstrual regularity, and overall wellbeing.

You may benefit from this test if you:

• Have irregular or absent periods

• Are investigating fertility or ovulation

• Experience menopausal or perimenopausal symptoms

• Have symptoms of hormonal imbalance

• Are monitoring hormone therapy

• Have reduced libido or mood changes

• Are assessing pubertal or endocrine disorders

• Are monitoring testosterone-related balance (in men)

Testing helps determine whether symptoms are linked to oestrogen levels.

Benefits of the test

1. Assesses oestrogen status accurately
   Measures the primary active oestrogen.

2. Supports fertility and cycle assessment
   Useful in ovulation and menstrual evaluation.

3. Helps assess menopausal status
   Low levels are typical after menopause.

4. Important in hormone therapy monitoring
   Used in HRT and endocrine follow-up.

5. Relevant for men’s hormone balance
   Helps assess oestrogen–testosterone balance.

6. Supports bone and cardiovascular health assessment
   Oestrogen plays a protective role.

7. Simple blood-based testing
   Requires only one blood sample.

8. Widely used in clinical endocrinology
   Standard hormone assessment.

Step-by-step: How we offer testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• Blood sample taken by a clinician

• Sample sent to the laboratory

• Results issued once analysis is complete

Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)

• Mobile phlebotomist attends your location

• Blood sample taken at home or hotel

• Sample securely transported to the laboratory

Your results explained

Low oestradiol

• May indicate ovarian insufficiency, menopause, or pituitary causes

• In men, may affect bone health and libido

Typical UK reference examples (vary by lab):

• Postmenopausal women: <110 pmol/L

• Men: <40 pmol/L

Normal oestradiol

• Indicates expected hormone production for age and cycle phase

• Supports normal reproductive and endocrine function

Reference ranges vary widely depending on menstrual cycle phase

High oestradiol

• May be seen in pregnancy, ovarian stimulation, or hormone therapy

• In men, may contribute to symptoms such as gynaecomastia

Interpretation must consider cycle timing, medications, and clinical context