Estradiol - Test

Why is the Test Performed?

This test is used to evaluate ovarian, placental, or adrenal function, particularly when certain types of ovarian tumor are suspected, or when there is delayed or abnormal development of male or female body characteristics. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements of serum estradiol and ultrasound imaging of ovarian follicles are used to monitor the ovarian response to stimulation.

Estradiol (the most important estrogen in the body) is a steroid hormone that has numerous important functions in females. Estradiol is mainly synthesized in and secreted from the placenta, ovarian follicle, and adrenal cortex.

Estradiol is responsible for growth of the uterus, Fallopian tubes and vagina; promotion of breast development; maturation of the external genitalia; deposition of body fat in a female distribution; and termination of linear growth. Estradiol stimulates the proliferation of the endometrium in the first half of the menstrual cycle.

Estradiol is metabolized to estrone and estriol by various target tissues. These compounds appear in the urine.

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