What is estradiol and what is the normal value?

Estradiol is an important sex hormone with crucial functions in both men and women. Normal levels vary by gender and phase of the menstrual cycle. Measuring estradiol is important for women with hormonal complaints, men using anabolic steroids, transgender individuals on hormone therapy and those with fertility problems.

Estradiol is a form of estrogen, an important sex hormone that plays a crucial role in the development and functioning of the reproductive organs. It is present in both men and women, but its levels and functions differ between the sexes.

Normal values of estradiol

Normal levels of estradiol vary depending on gender and age:

• Women:

  • Follicular phase (menstrual cycle): 46-607 pmol/L
  • Ovulation phase: 315-1828 pmol/L
  • Luteal phase: 161-774 pmol/L
  • Postmenopausal: < 103 pmol/L

• Men:

  • Overall: 40-162 pmol/L

Importance of Estradiol

For Women

1. Menstrual cycle:

   • Estradiol plays a key role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle. It promotes the growth of the endometrium in the first half of the cycle.

2. Pregnancy:

   • Estradiol supports the growth and maintenance of the uterus during pregnancy.

3. Bone Health:

   • It helps maintain bone density, which is important to prevent osteoporosis.

4. Skin and Hair:

   • Estradiol contributes to healthy skin and hair by regulating sebum production.

For Men

1. Testosterone balance:

   • Estradiol is produced by the aromatization of testosterone and helps balance testosterone levels.

2. Bone Health:

   • As in women, estradiol plays a role in maintaining bone density.

3. Fertility:

   • Estradiol is involved in sperm production and sperm quality.

Use with AAS (Anabolic Androgenic Steroids).

Men using anabolic steroids should monitor their estradiol levels because increased testosterone levels can lead to increased estradiol levels due to aromatase activity. Uncontrolled estradiol levels can lead to side effects such as gynecomastia (breast development in men) and fluid retention.

Importance of estradiol measurements for specific groups

1. Transgender Persons:

   • For those in transition from male to female, it is essential to monitor estradiol levels to ensure that hormone therapy is effective and to prevent side effects.

2. Unwanted Childlessness:

   • Estradiol measurements can help diagnose fertility problems by providing insight into the hormonal balance required for ovulation and sperm production.

3. Hormonal Disorders and Transition:

   • For women experiencing symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and osteoporosis, estradiol measurements can help assess the need for and effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy.

Blood tests for estradiol

At Bloedwaardentest.nl, you can have your estradiol levels measured with a variety of tests:

1. Estradiol Test:

   • Specific measurement of estradiol levels in the blood.

2. Hormone Balance Test:

   • Measure estradiol along with other hormones such as progesterone, testosterone and FSH to give a broad picture of hormonal health.

3. Comprehensive Fertility Test:

   • Includes estradiol and other hormones important for fertility.

4. Transition Monitoring Test:

   • For transgender individuals who want to monitor their hormone therapy.

Summary

Estradiol is an important hormone for both men and women, with various functions ranging from reproductive health to bone health. Measuring estradiol is crucial for diagnosing and treating hormonal imbalances, fertility problems and for monitoring hormone therapy in transgender individuals. At Bloedwaardentest.nl, you can choose from a variety of tests to check your estradiol levels and overall hormonal health.