Why do I need an estrogen test?You may need an estradiol test or an estrone test if you:Are having trouble getting pregnantAre a woman of childbearing age who is not having periods or having abnormal periodsAre a girl with early or delayed pubertyHave symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and/or night sweatsHave vaginal bleeding after menopauseAre a boy with delayed pubertyAre a man showing female characteristics, such as the growth of breastsIf you are pregnant, your health care provider may order an estriol test between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy as part of a prenatal test called a triple screen test. It can find out if your baby is at risk for a genetic birth defect such as Down syndrome. Not all pregnant women need to get an estriol test, but it is recommended for women who have a higher risk of having a baby with a birth defect. You may be at a higher risk if you:Have a family history of birth defectsAre age 35 or olderHave diabetesHave a viral infection during pregnancy
