Skip to content

Estradiol (serum/plasma mass concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of estradiol, a primary female sex hormone, in your blood. Estradiol plays a key role in regulating menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and secondary sexual characteristics.

Quick summary

["Estradiol levels help assess reproductive health and potential hormonal imbalances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83096-8
Short code
Estradiol SerPl IA-mCnc
Synonyms
Estradiol SerPl IA-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
Method
ia
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?

Doctors may order estradiol testing to evaluate symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, menopause-related issues, or to monitor hormone replacement therapy. It can also help diagnose conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or evaluate hormone-related cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your lab uses a specific method. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your vein. If you’re taking hormonal medications, inform your provider beforehand.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes less than 5 minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Results Meaning?

Results are compared to a general reference range, but individual ranges can vary by lab and age. Low estradiol may indicate early menopause or hormonal deficiencies, while high levels could suggest conditions like ovarian tumors or excessive hormone exposure.

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 are critical for diagnosing hormonal disorders, guiding fertility treatments, and managing menopausal symptoms. Abnormal results may prompt further testing, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH) checks, to clarify underlying causes.

Short name

Estradiol Level

Frequently asked questions

How often should estradiol testing be done?
The frequency depends on your health needs. Routine checks may occur annually for perimenopausal women or during hormone therapy, while symptomatic patients might need testing every 3–6 months.
What does it mean if my estradiol level is low?
Low estradiol could signal early menopause, ovarian dysfunction, or thyroid disorders. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or additional tests to identify the cause and develop a treatment plan.
Can diet or supplements affect estradiol levels?
Yes, certain foods (e.g., soy, flaxseed), phytoestrogens, or supplements (like black cohosh) may influence hormone levels. Avoiding these 2–3 weeks before testing can help ensure more accurate results.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

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