Estrogen (total) – Serum
This test measures the total amount of estrogen hormones in your blood. Estrogens are important for women’s reproductive health and also play a role in men’s hormone balance.
["Estrogen levels help assess reproductive health, hormone therapy needs, and potential hormonal imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 102375-3
- Short code
- Horn beam IgE RAST
- Synonyms
- Horn beam IgE RAST
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rast
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test to evaluate symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, infertility, or signs of perimenopause/menopause. It could also be used to monitor hormone replacement therapy or check for conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
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 arm.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure total estrogen levels, which includes both active and bound forms of the hormone.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine whether your estrogen levels are within a typical range for your age and gender, or if they are elevated or low. Your provider will compare the results to your symptoms and medical history to guide next steps.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High estrogen levels may indicate conditions like ovarian tumors, hormonal imbalances, or certain medications. Low estrogen could signal early menopause, thyroid issues, or other hormonal disorders. Always discuss results with your provider to understand their full implications for your health.
Short name
Total Estrogen
Frequently asked questions
What causes estrogen levels to vary?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I adjust my diet or activity before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy