Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required
- Turnaround: 5-6 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures estriol (E3), a form of estrogen produced by the placenta during pregnancy. E3 is measured directly as a circulating hormone, and its concentration typically increases as pregnancy progresses. This test does not measure estrone (E1) or estradiol (E2), the other main types of estrogen.
Estriol levels reflect the health of the pregnancy and fetal development, and this test is commonly used in the second trimester to help assess risk related to certain chromosomal abnormalities. Deficient E3 levels are expected in non-pregnant women and in men. This is a single hormone measurement, not a comprehensive hormonal or endocrine assessment.
Benefits
- Measures E3, the primary estrogen produced during pregnancy
- Helps assess fetal risk for certain chromosomal abnormalities
- Supports monitoring of high-risk pregnancies over time
- Reflects placental function and pregnancy progression
- Can be repeated to track changes in E3 levels
Who Is This Test For?
- Pregnant individuals whose provider wants to assess fetal risk
- Pregnant individuals identified as having a high-risk pregnancy
- Pregnant individuals over age 35
- Pregnant individuals taking insulin to manage diabetes
- Pregnant individuals with a family history of congenital disabilities
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this hormone test?
This test measures estriol (E3), a circulating hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It may help a healthcare provider evaluate fetal development and assess risk for certain chromosomal abnormalities, as well as monitor a high-risk pregnancy. This test measures E3 specifically, not estrone or estradiol, and it does not diagnose a condition on its own.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
Pregnant individuals whose healthcare provider wants to monitor E3 levels over the course of pregnancy may benefit from this test. It may also be considered for pregnancies identified as high-risk, including those involving maternal age over 35, insulin use for diabetes, or a family history of congenital disabilities.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider this test during pregnancy if your healthcare provider wants to track E3 levels over time, or as part of second-trimester screening to help assess fetal risk. It may also be used to help monitor a high-risk pregnancy. This test is often ordered as part of a broader evaluation by your provider.
4. How does this test differ from other hormone tests?
This test measures estriol (E3) specifically, one of three main estrogens along with estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2). Unlike E1, which is the primary estrogen after menopause, E3 is the primary estrogen produced during pregnancy. This test does not measure E1 or E2, and it should not be treated as interchangeable with tests for those hormones.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 5-6 days. This may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
Interpreting your E3 result depends on factors such as gestational age, pregnancy history, and other clinical information your provider has on file. Because E3 is often assessed alongside other pregnancy screening measurements, a single E3 result is usually considered as part of a broader evaluation. One abnormal result does not automatically confirm a problem, and one result within the expected range does not rule one out. Discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider for interpretation specific to your pregnancy.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your E3 results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help interpret your results alongside your pregnancy history and other clinical information. Additional evaluation or testing may be considered if recommended by your provider. This result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
9. How often should I get tested?
Your healthcare provider may request a series of E3 samples during pregnancy to assess changes over time. Testing frequency should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider based on your individual pregnancy.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required.
