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Estradiol (Serum) by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

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

This test measures the amount of estradiol, a key female sex hormone, in your blood. Estradiol helps regulate menstrual cycles, supports reproductive health, and influences bone and cardiovascular health.

Quick summary

["Estradiol levels can help diagnose hormonal imbalances or track treatment effectiveness for conditions like infertility, menopause, or hormone therapy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90891-3
Short code
Estradiol 2h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Estradiol 2h 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, or menopausal changes. It can also assess hormone-related conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone replacement therapy monitoring.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part without clotting factors), which is then sent to a lab for analysis using HPLC to detect estradiol levels precisely.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (like birth control or hormone therapies) for a few days beforehand, depending on your situation. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol before the test can also help ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a mass concentration of estradiol in the serum. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower or higher than expected levels may signal hormonal imbalances or underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Estradiol Level

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Abnormally low estradiol levels may indicate early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or certain medical conditions like ovarian cancer. High levels could suggest conditions like ovarian tumors, pregnancy, or certain medications. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
The frequency depends on your health goals. For example, women with PCOS may need testing every 6–12 months, while those on hormone therapy might require monitoring more closely. Your provider will determine the best schedule for you.
Can I Influence My Estradiol Levels Before the Test?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress can affect hormone levels. Avoiding extreme weight fluctuations, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet may help stabilize results. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions for optimal accuracy.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

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