Estradiol is an important female sex hormone that is mainly produced in the ovaries. It plays a major role in the development of female sexual characteristics, such as breasts and the menstrual cycle. Estradiol also helps maintain healthy bones, regulates fat distribution in the body and supports fertility. Men also produce small amounts of estradiol, mainly in fat tissue and through the conversion of the male hormone testosterone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A high estradiol value means that there is more of this hormone in the blood than normal. This can occur, for example, due to certain ovarian conditions, pregnancy or the use of certain medications. A low estradiol value means that there is less of the hormone present. This often occurs during menopause, with problems affecting the ovaries or in cases of being underweight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a high estradiol value, symptoms may include irregular periods, sensitive or swollen breasts, weight gain or mood changes. Sometimes there are no clear symptoms. With a low value, symptoms may include hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, reduced libido or bone loss. In younger women, it can also lead to absent periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Estradiol is very important for a normal menstrual cycle. It helps build up the lining of the uterus, allowing a fertilised egg to implant. It also plays a role in the maturation of eggs in the ovaries. Without sufficient estradiol, periods may become irregular or stop completely, making it more difficult to become pregnant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Estradiol can be elevated due to pregnancy, certain ovarian tumours, being overweight, the use of hormone medications or some liver conditions. A reduced value can be caused by menopause, problems with the ovaries (such as the absence of ovulation), being underweight, excessive exercise or certain medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is advisable to measure estradiol if you have symptoms that may indicate a hormonal imbalance, such as irregular or absent periods, fertility problems, menopausal symptoms or unexplained mood changes. It can also be measured in men with symptoms that may indicate a disruption of hormone balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Estradiol is measured using a finger prick blood test. The result is compared with normal values for your age and situation (for example, before or after menopause, or during a specific phase of the menstrual cycle). Your doctor will discuss the result with you and explain what it means for your health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Treatment depends on the cause of the abnormal value. For a low value caused by menopause, hormone therapy or other medications may help. In younger women, it may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the low value, for example by adjusting nutrition or reducing excessive exercise. For a high value, medication may sometimes be needed or an underlying condition may need to be treated. Always discuss the best approach for your situation with your doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"biomarker_category":[595],"biomarker_material":[],"class_list":["post-11018234","biomarker","type-biomarker","status-publish","hentry","biomarker_category-female-hormones"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n