Estradiol; total
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
- Estradiol; total
- Also known as E2; Estradiol, serum
Summary
Estradiol; total is a blood test that measures the levels of estradiol, a form of estrogen, in the blood. This hormone is essential for many bodily functions, especially reproductive and sexual health in women.
Purpose
The estradiol test helps diagnose reproductive conditions, manage hormone-related disorders, and monitor hormone levels in women undergoing fertility treatments or hormone replacement therapy. It can also help assess ovarian function.
Indications
- Irregular menstrual cycles or absence of menstruation (amenorrhea)
- Symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, night sweats)
- Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
- Delayed puberty in girls
- Monitoring of ovarian function
- Evaluation of hormonal treatments (e.g., for breast cancer or menopause)
Preparation
- Fasting is not required for this test.
- Certain medications, such as birth control pills or hormone replacements, may need to be paused; consult with your doctor for specific instructions.
- Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Procedure Description
- A healthcare professional will clean the area of your arm where blood will be drawn.
- A tourniquet will be applied to your upper arm to increase blood flow.
- A needle will be inserted into a vein, and blood will be collected into a vial or syringe.
- The needle will be removed, and a bandage will be applied to the puncture site.
- The sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Duration
The blood draw itself typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Setting
The procedure is usually performed in a doctor’s office, outpatient clinic, or laboratory.
Personnel
- Phlebotomist or a trained nurse for blood collection
- Laboratory technicians for sample analysis
- Healthcare provider to interpret the results
Risks and Complications
- Common: Minor discomfort, slight bruising at the puncture site
Rare: Infection, hematoma (a collection of blood outside the blood vessels)
Benefits
- Accurate measurement of estradiol levels
- Provides essential information for diagnosing hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues
- Helps tailor effective treatments
Recovery
- No special post-procedure care is needed.
- You may return to your normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
- Keep the puncture site clean and watch for signs of infection.
Alternatives
- Salvular hormone testing (such as saliva tests) is available but less commonly used.
- Other hormone blood tests (e.g., for luteinizing hormone or follicle-stimulating hormone) that provide additional reproductive health information.
Patient Experience
- During the blood draw, you might feel a slight prick or pinch.
- Mild bruising or tenderness at the puncture site is normal and should subside within a few days.
- If you have any significant discomfort or signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider.