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Estradiol (Total) by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with Serum/Plasma Measurement

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of estradiol, a key female sex hormone, in your blood. Estradiol plays a critical role in reproductive health, bone density, and overall well-being.

Quick summary

["Understanding your estradiol levels can help assess reproductive health and hormonal balance."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56750-3
Short code
Estradiol 1h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Estradiol 1h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82670
SNOMED
300919004
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a total estradiol test to evaluate symptoms related to hormonal changes, such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, or menopause. It can also be used to monitor hormone replacement therapy or diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using HPLC to measure estradiol levels precisely.

What the Results Mean

Estradiol levels vary depending on your age, menstrual cycle phase (for women), and overall health. Your results will be compared to standard reference ranges provided by your healthcare provider to determine if your levels are within a healthy range or if further evaluation is needed.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Estradiol levels help diagnose hormonal imbalances, guide treatment for conditions like low estrogen, and monitor reproductive health. High or low estradiol can indicate underlying issues such as thyroid disorders, tumors, or genetic conditions. Always discuss your results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.

Short name

Total Estradiol

Frequently asked questions

What causes estradiol levels to be tested?
Estradiol testing is often done to check for hormonal imbalances, evaluate fertility, monitor menopause symptoms, or assess conditions like PCOS. Your doctor may also recommend it if you’re experiencing irregular periods, bone density concerns, or other symptoms linked to hormonal changes.
How long does it take to get the results?
Test results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready, either through a phone call or secure message.
Can lifestyle changes affect estradiol levels?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress, and smoking can influence estradiol levels. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding smoking may support hormonal health, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy