Oestriol (E3) blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Oestriol is one of three main oestrogens, alongside oestradiol (E2) and oestrone (E1). It is far less potent than oestradiol. In pregnancy the placenta makes large amounts, which is why oestriol was historically used in antenatal screening. Outside pregnancy it is produced in small amounts, largely from the breakdown of other oestrogens in the liver.

Measuring oestriol on its own has a limited role in routine care. It may be requested to check levels in women using vaginal or other oestriol preparations, or as part of a detailed specialist hormone review. For most menopause or cycle questions, oestradiol, FSH and LH give more useful information, and NICE guidance does not require blood tests to diagnose menopause in women over 45 with typical symptoms.

The price includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You use an oestriol cream or pessary and your clinician would like to check your level.
• You are having a detailed hormone review and your practitioner has suggested adding oestriol.
• You are exploring symptoms around the menopause and want a broader hormone picture alongside standard tests.
• Your specialist has asked for oestriol as part of ongoing care.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your oestriol level with the laboratory reference range. In women who are not pregnant and not using oestriol treatment, the result is often very low or below the level the laboratory can detect, and this is expected. Higher values may be seen with oestriol treatment or pregnancy.

An unexpected value is something to talk through rather than a diagnosis. Oestriol does not reflect overall oestrogen status well on its own, so your practitioner reads it with your symptoms and, where useful, with oestradiol and other hormones.

Preparing for your test

Fasting is not necessary. If you have a menstrual cycle, we may suggest timing the test for a particular phase, and if you use an oestriol product, tell us when you last applied it. Stop biotin supplements for at least 48 hours before the test, as they can interfere with hormone assays. We confirm any timing when you book.

For a fuller picture of hormones around the menopause, our menopause blood tests include FSH and related markers, and Standard Screen Plus with Hormonal Health combines hormones with general health markers. See every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is an oestriol (E3) blood test in Chiswick?

The oestriol (E3) test costs £249 at Omnia Lifestyle. The price includes your blood sample in Chiswick, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review, and a GP feedback report on request.

How is oestriol different from oestradiol?

Oestradiol (E2) is the main, most active oestrogen during the reproductive years. Oestriol (E3) is much weaker and mainly important in pregnancy, so the two answer different questions.

Can this test confirm menopause?

No. Menopause is usually diagnosed from symptoms and age. Where tests are needed, FSH and oestradiol are more useful than oestriol.

Is a very low result a concern?

Not usually. Low or undetectable oestriol is common outside pregnancy and is read in the context of your symptoms and any treatment.