From the Guidelines
An estradiol level of 72 pg/mL in a 36-year-old woman is generally within the normal range for the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, which typically ranges from 30-120 pg/mL, as no specific study directly correlates this level with morbidity, mortality, or quality of life outcomes in this context 1. This level suggests normal ovarian function for a premenopausal woman. When considering the implications of this estradiol level on the woman's health, it's essential to recognize that the provided evidence primarily discusses the relationship between estrogen levels and postpartum depression, which is not directly applicable to this scenario 1. However, the normal range of estradiol levels during the menstrual cycle is well-established, and a level of 72 pg/mL falls within the expected range for a woman of her age, indicating no immediate concern regarding her ovarian function or potential for hormonal imbalances that could impact morbidity, mortality, or quality of life. No specific treatment is needed if this value is consistent with her menstrual cycle timing and she isn't experiencing symptoms. However, interpretation depends on when during her cycle the blood was drawn, as estradiol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the month, peaking before ovulation and decreasing during the luteal phase. If she's experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, or fertility concerns despite this normal value, she should consult her healthcare provider for a complete hormonal evaluation, which would include other hormones like FSH, LH, and progesterone, to assess any potential impact on her quality of life or to identify any underlying conditions that could affect morbidity or mortality. Estradiol is produced primarily by the ovaries and plays crucial roles in reproductive function, bone health, cardiovascular protection, and cognitive function in women of reproductive age, all of which are important considerations for maintaining quality of life and preventing conditions that could lead to increased morbidity or mortality.
From the Research
Estradiol Levels in Women
- Estradiol is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and reproductive health of women 2, 3.
- The normal range of estradiol levels can vary widely between cycles and between different women 2.
- A study published in 2006 established detailed reference values for estradiol and other hormones during different phases of the menstrual cycle 2.
- According to this study, the reference values for estradiol were determined from a group of 20 volunteers aged 20-36 years with normal cycles and no use of oral contraceptives 2.
Interpretation of Estradiol Levels
- An estradiol level of 72 in a 36-year-old woman may be within the normal range, but it depends on the phase of her menstrual cycle and other individual factors 2, 3.
- Estradiol levels can fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, with higher levels typically seen during the late follicular phase and lower levels during the early follicular phase 2.
- A study published in 1997 found that estradiol levels were significantly higher in older women (40-45 years) compared to younger women (20-25 years) on days 1-4 of the menstrual cycle 3.
Comparison with Other Studies
- Other studies have investigated the relationship between estradiol levels and menopausal symptoms 4, as well as the effects of oral estrogen therapy on estradiol levels in postmenopausal women 5.
- A study published in 2021 found that serum estradiol levels were not directly proportional to estrogen dose in postmenopausal women using oral menopausal hormone therapy 5.
- Another study published in 2022 explored the dynamics of luteinizing hormone (LH) in menstruation, which is closely related to estradiol levels 6.