HOW TO TEST OESTROGEN LEVELS

Oestrogen is one of the most important hormones in the body. It regulates the menstrual cycle, supports bone health, maintains skin elasticity, and influences mood and fertility. When oestrogen levels become unbalanced, symptoms can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing.

Testing your oestrogen levels can provide valuable insight into your reproductive and hormonal health. Whether you are trying to understand symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flushes, or low energy, an oestrogen blood test can help identify what is happening inside your body.

A female hormone blood test is the most accurate way to check oestrogen levels. At One Day Tests, you can choose a home testing kit or book an appointment at one of our nationwide clinics. Results are laboratory-reviewed and typically ready within 24 to 48 hours.

Oestrogen plays a key role in almost every stage of a woman’s life. Produced mainly by the ovaries, it helps control menstrual cycles, prepares the body for pregnancy, and protects bone and heart health.

When oestrogen levels fall out of balance, even slightly, you may notice changes in how you feel. Common signs of imbalance include:

• Irregular or missed periods
  
  

• Hot flushes or night sweats
  
  

• Low mood or anxiety
  
  

• Vaginal dryness or low libido
  
  

• Weight gain or bloating
  
  

• Dry skin or thinning hair
  
  

Oestrogen levels naturally rise and fall through the menstrual cycle and across different life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Testing helps determine whether your levels are within the expected range for your age and cycle.

There are three main forms of oestrogen measured in the body:

• Oestrone (E1) – produced after menopause and from body fat.
  
  

• Oestradiol (E2) – the main form in premenopausal women, essential for fertility and reproductive health.
  
  

• Oestriol (E3) – primarily produced during pregnancy.
  
  

Several types of tests can measure oestrogen levels, but blood tests are the most accurate and widely used.

Blood test: The standard method for measuring oestrogen. A small sample is taken from a vein or fingertip and analysed in a laboratory.

Urine test: Sometimes used to check oestrogen metabolites but less common for standard hormone testing.

Saliva test: Occasionally used for home testing but not as reliable for clinical assessment.

A blood test remains the gold standard for identifying both low and high oestrogen levels.

For accurate results, the timing of your test is important.

If you have regular periods, oestrogen levels are usually tested early in your menstrual cycle, typically between days 2 and 5. This provides a baseline reading before ovulation.

If you are testing for fertility or ovulation, your doctor may recommend additional tests later in the cycle. For women who no longer have periods or are postmenopausal, testing can be done at any time.

Oestrogen testing is often combined with other hormones such as FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinising Hormone), and progesterone to provide a full picture of reproductive health.

Most oestrogen blood tests do not require fasting, but preparation can help ensure accuracy.

• Tell your healthcare provider about any medication, contraception, or hormone replacement therapy you are taking, as these can affect results.
  
  

• Avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol the day before testing.
  
  

• If testing in a clinic, stay hydrated and relaxed before your appointment.
  
  

• For home tests, carefully follow the instructions for collecting your blood sample.
  
  

Following these steps ensures your results accurately reflect your natural hormone levels.

You can check your oestrogen levels either through your GP or a private provider.

Through the NHS:

 Your GP can order an oestrogen test if symptoms suggest a hormone-related issue such as irregular periods, menopause, or fertility concerns. However, access can vary depending on local guidelines, and results may take longer.

Through private testing:

 Private providers like One Day Tests make hormone testing simple and accessible. You can choose between:

• Home testing kits: Collect a small finger-prick blood sample at home and post it to the laboratory.
  
  

• In-clinic tests: Book an appointment at a local clinic for a venous blood draw.
  
  

Your results are available securely online within 24 to 48 hours and reviewed by the laboratory for accuracy.

Private testing is ideal if you want quick results or a comprehensive hormone panel without waiting for a GP referral.

Your test results will show the level of oestrogen in your blood, usually measured as oestradiol (E2). Normal levels vary depending on your age, menstrual phase, and whether you are premenopausal or postmenopausal.

• Low oestrogen levels can occur during menopause, after pregnancy, or as a result of certain medical conditions such as ovarian insufficiency or PCOS. Symptoms often include hot flushes, irregular periods, low mood, and fatigue.
  
  

• High oestrogen levels can occur due to hormonal medication, pregnancy, or health conditions such as liver disease. Symptoms may include bloating, weight gain, and breast tenderness.
  
  

Interpreting your results depends on several factors, including your cycle, age, and symptoms. You can share your results with your GP or specialist to discuss next steps.

If your results are outside the expected range, further testing may be recommended to identify the cause. In some cases, treatment may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or monitoring over time.