📅 Last Updated: June 2026 | 🩺 Medically Reviewed by: Edward Salko, D.O., Medical Director | 🧪 Lab Partner: Labcorp
The Estrogens Total blood test measures the combined level of all three major forms of estrogen in your body — estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3) — providing a more complete hormonal picture than testing estradiol alone.
Understanding the three estrogens:
- Estradiol (E2) — the primary and most active form of estrogen during reproductive years
- Estrone (E1) — the predominant form after menopause, also relevant in men
- Estriol (E3) — produced in significant amounts only during pregnancy
Why test total estrogens instead of just estradiol: While estradiol is the most commonly tested estrogen, looking at total estrogens provides a broader view — particularly useful for evaluating menopausal status, certain fertility workups, and situations where estrone or estriol levels carry additional clinical significance.
What this test is used for:
- Evaluating menopause and perimenopause symptoms
- Assessing cardiovascular and bone health risk related to estrogen decline
- Fertility evaluation, including establishing ovulation timing
- Investigating menstrual cycle irregularities
- Monitoring hormone replacement therapy
Important note on timing: Because estrogen levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, the timing of your blood draw matters for interpretation. Your physician or the lab order instructions will indicate the optimal day of your cycle to test, depending on what you’re evaluating.
Who should order this test:
- Women experiencing symptoms of menopause or perimenopause — hot flashes, mood changes, irregular periods
- Women undergoing fertility evaluation or trying to identify ovulation timing
- Women on or considering hormone replacement therapy
- Anyone investigating broader hormonal imbalances alongside other reproductive hormone tests
No special preparation is necessary prior to the blood draw. Physician order included. No insurance required. Results in days through Labcorp. HSA and FSA eligible.
Use:
Evaluate for ovarian estrogen producing tumor in the premenarcheal and postmenopausal female; evaluate estrogen excess in males.
Estrogen analysis may be helpful in establishing time of ovulation and optimal time for conception. Serial samples must be collected over several days to evaluate baseline and peak total estrogen levels.
Estrogens are a group of steroids that play an important role in regulating the menstrual cycle and function as the main sex hormones in females. Estrogens are responsible for the development and maturation of female sex organs and other sexual characteristics.
Recommended For:
For women evaluating symptoms of menopause, cardiovascular risk, and bone problems.
Special Notes:
No special preparation is necessary prior to blood sample collection.
Tests Included:
Estimated Turn Around For Results:
2-10 Business Days
For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at Personalabs and we will contact the lab on your behalf as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Estrogens Total and an Estradiol test? Estradiol measures only one type of estrogen — the dominant form during reproductive years. The Estrogens Total test measures all three forms (estrone, estradiol, and estriol) combined, providing a broader hormonal picture that can be more useful for evaluating menopause or certain fertility situations.
When during my cycle should I get this test? Timing depends on what you’re evaluating. For fertility and ovulation tracking, your physician will typically recommend specific cycle days. For general hormonal evaluation or menopause assessment, timing is less critical. Follow the specific guidance provided with your lab order.
Can this test help determine ovulation timing? Yes. Estrogen levels rise and peak just before ovulation, so tracking estrogen levels — sometimes alongside LH — can help establish ovulation timing for fertility planning.
What does low total estrogen indicate? Low total estrogen can indicate menopause or perimenopause, premature ovarian insufficiency, certain pituitary conditions, or excessive exercise/low body weight affecting hormone production. Symptoms often include hot flashes, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
Do I need a doctor’s order for this test? No. Personalabs provides a physician-approved lab order with every purchase. No referral or insurance required. Results in days through Labcorp. HSA and FSA eligible.
