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Estradiol (serum/plasma mass concentration measurement)

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

This test measures the amount of estradiol, a key female sex hormone, in your blood. It helps assess hormone balance, reproductive health, and potential hormonal disorders.

Quick summary

["Estradiol levels can indicate fertility, menopause progression, or hormone-related conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85067-7
Short code
Estradiol p GnRH SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Estradiol p GnRH 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 an estradiol test to evaluate symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, or infertility. It can also be used during pregnancy monitoring, hormone therapy planning, or to diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or ovarian tumors.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm). Blood is drawn into a tube. The process takes a few minutes. Avoid strenuous activity or eating/drinking for 2–4 hours before the test if instructed.

What to Expect During the Test

You may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the needle site, but most people tolerate it well. The test itself is quick and painless. If you have a fear of needles, ask your provider about alternatives.

What the Results Mean

Estradiol levels can fluctuate naturally, especially in women. High levels may signal conditions like ovarian tumors or hormone therapy use, while low levels could indicate menopause, pituitary disorders, or other hormonal imbalances. Your provider will compare your results to your medical history and symptoms.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Estradiol Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my estradiol test results?
Results typically arrive within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you directly with the final interpretation.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Follow your provider’s instructions, but generally, you may have a light snack or drink water unless fasting is required (e.g., for certain hormone tests). Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before the draw.
Will this test affect my hormone therapy?
If you’re on hormone therapy (e.g., birth control, estrogen replacement), your estradiol levels may be influenced. Your provider will adjust your treatment plan based on the test results and your overall health.
  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