What should you know about raised oestradiol?

Oestradiol is a form of oestrogen made mainly by the ovaries before menopause. Its level naturally changes during the cycle and may be higher around ovulation. Pregnancy also changes hormone levels. A result can be affected by medicines, including some fertility medicines and hormone therapy, and by the timing of the blood test.

A single result does not identify a diagnosis by itself. Your clinician may interpret it alongside your age, cycle day, symptoms, pregnancy status, other hormone tests and any imaging. Symptoms such as irregular bleeding, pelvic discomfort, breast tenderness or headaches can have many explanations.

Write down the test date, your cycle day, medicines and supplements, and any symptoms. Tell the clinician if pregnancy is possible or if you use fertility treatment, contraception or menopausal hormones. Do not stop prescribed treatment based on the number alone. Depending on the reason for testing, repeat blood testing or an ultrasound may be considered.

Read about [Oestradiol](/materials/oestradiol/) to understand what the test measures. If hormone treatment is involved, ask whether [Hormone Replacement Therapy](/treatments/menopause-and-hormone-therapy/hormone-replacement-therapy/) or [Vaginal Oestrogen Therapy](/treatments/menopause-and-hormone-therapy/vaginal-oestrogen-therapy/) is relevant to your situation.

Arrange a clinical review if the result is unexpected, remains raised, or occurs with persistent irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, a new abdominal swelling, or symptoms that are worsening. Seek urgent help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding with weakness, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding.

What range applies to my age and cycle day? Could my medicines or pregnancy affect this result? Do I need repeat testing, other hormone tests or an ultrasound? Which symptoms should prompt urgent care?