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Estradiol (E2)

Estradiol is a type of estrogen, which is a female hormone produced mainly by the ovaries. It plays an important role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system, as well as in the maintenance of bone and cardiovascular health. During the menstrual cycle, estradiol levels rise and fall in response to changes in other hormones, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Estradiol levels rise during the first half of the cycle as the follicles in the ovaries grow and produce estrogen. Estradiol helps thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for a possible pregnancy. Estradiol levels are also monitored during fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), where medications may be used to stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs. In these cases, estradiol levels are used to monitor the response to treatment and adjust medication doses if necessary. In postmenopausal women, estradiol levels may be used to monitor hormone replacement therapy.

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