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What Is 17 Beta Estradiol?

17-beta estradiol (estradiol) is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone produced mainly in the ovaries. Males produce estradiol as well, but at much lower levels and non-cyclically.

  1. Biological Importance

    • In females, estradiol aids in the formation of secondary sex characteristics such as breast development and regulation of the menstrual cycle. In males, it helps govern sperm maturation and on a much smaller scale, reproductive function. While primarily viewed as a female hormone, estradiol has many nonreproductive influences on various physiological systems including brain development, blood coagulation and bone growth.

    The Menstrual Cycle

    • During childbearing years, estradiol is the primary circulating estrogen. In the first two weeks of the menstrual cycle, estradiol levels stay at low levels. Right before ovulation, levels spike; then after ovulation occurs, sharply drop. Though a bit higher than at the beginning of the cycle, estradiol then remains low until menstruation begins.

    Detection

    • Laboratory detection of estradiol can be performed from either blood or saliva specimens. Testing is based on an antigen-antibody reaction. Results help health care professionals assess, treat and monitor conditions such as infertility, menstrual disorders and menopause symptoms in women and hormone imbalances in men.

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