What is the Oestrone test?

The Oestrone (E1) test measures oestrone, one of the three main forms of oestrogen in the body (oestradiol, oestrone, and oestriol). Oestrone is produced mainly through the conversion of androgens in fat tissue and becomes the dominant oestrogen after menopause.

Unlike oestradiol (E2), which is the most potent oestrogen during reproductive years, oestrone has weaker oestrogenic activity but still plays an important role in overall hormonal balance. Measuring oestrone provides additional insight into oestrogen metabolism, particularly in postmenopausal women and in men.

Why do I need an Oestrone test?

Oestrone levels can help clarify oestrogen status when symptoms persist despite normal or low oestradiol levels.

You may benefit from this test if you:

• Are perimenopausal or postmenopausal

• Have menopausal symptoms with unclear hormone results

• Are monitoring hormone replacement therapy

• Have weight-related hormonal concerns

• Are assessing oestrogen balance alongside testosterone (in men)

• Have symptoms of oestrogen excess or deficiency

• Need deeper insight into oestrogen metabolism

Testing helps differentiate sources of oestrogen and supports more accurate hormonal assessment.

Benefits of the test

1. Assesses postmenopausal oestrogen status
   Oestrone is the main oestrogen after menopause.

2. Complements oestradiol testing
   Provides a fuller oestrogen profile.

3. Useful in hormone therapy monitoring
   Helps assess peripheral oestrogen conversion.

4. Relevant in weight-related hormone changes
   Fat tissue influences oestrone production.

5. Supports male hormone balance assessment
   Oestrone contributes to total oestrogen load.

6. Improves interpretation of menopausal symptoms
   Explains symptoms when E2 is low.

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

8. Widely used in endocrine assessment
   Standard component of advanced hormone evaluation.

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 oestrone

• May be seen in low body fat, ovarian insufficiency, or suppressed oestrogen production

• Can contribute to menopausal or hypo-oestrogen symptoms

Typical UK reference examples (vary by lab):

• Postmenopausal women: <70 pmol/L

Normal oestrone

• Indicates expected oestrogen conversion for age and menopausal status

• Supports balanced oestrogen metabolism

High oestrone

• May be associated with increased peripheral conversion in fat tissue

• Can contribute to symptoms of oestrogen dominance

• Relevant in hormone therapy monitoring

Results should be interpreted alongside oestradiol, testosterone, BMI, and clinical context.