Estrogen Levels Test Test
An estrogen test measures the level of estrogens in your blood, urine, or saliva. Estrogens are hormones that play a key role in female reproductive health and also affect cholesterol, blood sugar, bone strength, and brain function in both males and females.
What this test measures
An estrogen test measures the level of estrogens in a sample of your blood, urine, or saliva. The three types commonly tested are estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3).
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
A high level in males is usually a sign of a health condition such as infertility or an estrogen-producing tumor. In females, high levels can occur during pregnancy or may be due to conditions like PCOS or estrogen-producing tumors.
Lower-than-normal results
A low level in females may be a sign of conditions like hypothyroidism, pituitary disorders, or menopause. In males, low levels are less common but may be associated with late puberty.
Frequently asked questions
What is an estrogen test?
An estrogen test measures the level of estrogens in your blood, urine, or saliva. Estrogens are hormones that play a key role in female reproductive health and other bodily functions.
What are the three types of estrogen tested?
The three types commonly tested are estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3).
Why might a female need an estrogen test?
In females, estrogen testing may help diagnose early or late puberty, PCOS, thyroid or pituitary disorders, infertility, or estrogen-producing tumors. It can also monitor infertility treatments or hormone replacement therapy.
Why might a male need an estrogen test?
In males, estrogen testing may be used to see if too much estrogen is causing late puberty, breast growth (gynecomastia), infertility, or erectile dysfunction.
What do my estrogen test results mean?
A healthy level depends on your age, sex, and the type of estrogen measured. Because levels change a lot in females, you may need more than one test. Talk with your provider to understand your results.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Estrogen Levels Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.