- The primary form of circulating estrogen in both men and women, estradiol, helps indicate functioning of the hypothalmus and pituitary systems. Men form less estradiol than women with a small portion formed directly by the testes and the rest converted from testosterone and adrenal steroid hormones.
- Estradiol levels in men are determined by a simple blood test. Each lab will list their own reference range on test results but a normal range is about 10-60 pg/ml. In women, average blood levels vary widely depending on the phase of their menstrual cycle or if they are postmenopausal. In men, however, reference ranges are constant whether a man is 25 or 60. That being said, it is also a recognized fact that as men age, they will tend to have scores towards the higher end of normal.
- Low levels of estradiol in men can play a role in health problems such as infertility and poor bone density. An article in the International Journal of Urology, 1995, indicated that estradiol levels were significantly lower in those with low sperm count as compared to the control group. According to research conducted by the University of California, low bone mineral density has a strong association with low estradiol levels in men.
- According to Dr. Rick Cohen, an expert in treating male hormonal imbalance, as stated in his article "Estrogen: The Unrecognized Male Hormone," increases in estrogen can cause "reduced levels of testosterone, fatigue, loss of muscle tone, increased body fat, loss of libido and sexual function and an enlarged prostate." Gynecomastia, or enlargement of the breast tissue in males, as well as other signs of feminization could also be related to high estradiol levels in males of any age.
- As with many lab tests, assessment of estradiol levels can help indicate potential health problems but is not a proof-positive diagnostic tool. Remember to discuss any concerns with your health care provider.
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