An estradiol test measures the amount of a hormone called
estradiol in the blood. Estradiol is the most important form of
estrogen found in the body. Most of it is made in and released
from the ovaries, adrenal cortex, and the placenta, which forms
during pregnancy to feed a developing baby. Estradiol is
responsible for the growth of the womb (uterus), Fallopian
tubes, and vagina. It promotes breast development and the growth
of the outer genitals. The hormone also plays a role in the
distribution of body fat in women. A blood sample is needed. For
information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture Certain
medicines may interfere with test results, including: When the
needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate
pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation.
Afterward, there may be some throbbing. This test may be done:
The test may also be used to monitor patients with
hypopituitarism and women undergoing certain fertility
treatments. The examples above are common measurements for