was sind östrogen — which blood markers matter?

Estrogens are a group of steroid hormones primarily associated with female reproductive health, but they also play roles in males and various tissues. The three main forms are estradiol (E2, most potent), estrone (E1, dominant after menopause), and estriol (E3, during pregnancy). Which blood markers matter depends on the individual context: In premenopausal women, E2 is key, often measured alongside FSH and LH to assess cycle phase. In menopause or hormone replacement therapy, E1 and E2 and the ratio to progesterone are relevant. In men, estradiol is usually measured only if imbalance is suspected (e.g., gynecomastia). Direct-to-consumer tests like MyBody-X typically measure only total estradiol, not free estradiol or metabolites. Interpretation is complex and should be done by a physician, as reference ranges vary by age, sex, cycle phase, and lab. A single value without clinical context has limited utility. Evidence: mechanistic, but blood markers are well-established. Caveat: No diagnosis from a home test alone.