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, assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, and monitor a high-risk pregnancy. It measures E3 specifically and does not diagnose any condition on its own.
2. Who may benefit from this test, and when should it be ordered?
This test may be appropriate during pregnancy when a healthcare provider wants to monitor E3 over time or include it in second-trimester screening to help assess fetal risk. It may also be considered for high-risk pregnancies, including those involving maternal age over 35, insulin use for diabetes, or a family history of congenital disabilities. The test is often ordered as part of a broader evaluation.
3. How does this test differ from other hormone tests?
This test measures estriol (E3), one of the three main estrogens alongside 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 should not be treated as interchangeable with tests for those hormones.
4. Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is required.
5. How quickly will I receive my results?
Results are typically available within 5–6 days. They may take longer because of weather, holidays, or laboratory delays.
6. How do I interpret the results?
Interpretation depends on factors such as gestational age, pregnancy history, and other available clinical information. Because E3 is often assessed alongside other pregnancy-screening measurements, a single 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 result 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.
7. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Review E3 results that fall outside the expected range with a qualified healthcare provider. They can interpret them alongside your pregnancy history and other clinical information and determine whether additional evaluation or testing is appropriate.
8. 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 based on your individual pregnancy and your provider’s guidance.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required.
