Estrogens, Total

Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone as well as a medication. It is responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. There are three major endogenous estrogens in women and men: estrone, estradiol, and estriol.

Note

This test does not include a breakdown of each individual estrogen level.

ECLIA, or Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay, is a laboratory method used for measuring various substances, including hormones like estrogen. This method combines principles of immunoassays (a test that uses antibodies to bind the substance of interest) with electrochemiluminescence (the emission of light resulting from an electrochemical reaction).

The total estrogen test measures the combined levels of the three main types of estrogen: estradiol (E2), estrone (E1), and estriol (E3). However, it's important to note that the "total estrogen" tests are less common and less specific than tests for individual types of estrogen. The exact method used to test estrogen levels can vary and might include methods like ECLIA, radioimmunoassay, or LC/MS/MS depending on the specific clinical context.

Throughout a woman's life, estrogen levels change significantly, largely driven by the menstrual cycle and life stages like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Here's a brief overview:

• Puberty: The production of estrogen increases during puberty, leading to the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and the start of menstruation.

• Reproductive years: During the reproductive years, estrogen levels follow a cyclical pattern in sync with the menstrual cycle. Estradiol, the dominant estrogen during these years, peaks around ovulation to prepare the body for potential pregnancy and falls if no pregnancy occurs.

• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, estrogen levels, particularly estriol, significantly increase. They help to maintain the pregnancy and stimulate the growth of the milk ducts in the breasts in preparation for breastfeeding.

• Menopause: As women approach menopause, estrogen production by the ovaries decreases, leading to the cessation of menstrual periods. Post-menopause, estrone becomes the dominant form of estrogen, produced mainly in fat tissue. Lower levels of estrogen during and after menopause can lead to various symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and an increased risk of osteoporosis.

Estrogen has widespread effects throughout the body, and changes in estrogen levels can influence mood, bone health, heart health, skin health, and more. For this reason, maintaining a healthy balance of estrogen is important for overall health and wellbeing.

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