 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Estradiol - test
Definition:
An estradiol test measures the amount of estradiol in the blood. Alternative Names:
E2 Text Continues Below
How the test is performed:
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding. For infants or young children: The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. A bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding. How to prepare for the test:
Consult your health care provider about the need to stop taking drugs that can affect test results, including: - Estrogen therapy
- Birth control pills
How the test will feel:
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. Why the test is performed:
This test is used to evaluate function of the ovaries, placenta, or adrenal glands, particularly when certain types of ovarian tumor are suspected, or when there is delayed or abnormal development of male or female body characteristics. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), measuring serum estradiol and taking ultrasound images of ovarian follicles at regular intervals is used to monitor the response of the ovaries to stimulation.
| 
.gif)
