Estriol Unconjugated (E3)

Unconjugated estriol (E3) is the free, bioactive form of estriol—a relatively weak estrogen produced mainly during pregnancy by the placenta and fetal liver. It’s one of three primary estrogens and is measured in maternal blood or urine for prenatal screening and to assess fetal well‑being. "Unconjugated" means it isn’t bound to sulfate or glucuronide and is hormonally active.

High estriol (E3) usually reflects pregnancy-related estrogen production from the fetal-placental unit. Elevated E3 is commonly seen in multiple gestation, advanced gestational age, or increased fetal/placental activity; it can also result from exogenous estrogen or reduced maternal clearance. Rarely, estrogen‑producing tumors raise E3. Interpretation depends on pregnancy context; abnormal results warrant clinical review and further testing by your healthcare provider.

Unconjugated estriol is the free, active form of estriol — a weak estrogen produced mainly by the fetal‑placental unit during pregnancy. Unlike conjugated estriol, it isn’t bound to sulfate or glucuronide. Maternal serum or urine unconjugated estriol is measured in prenatal screening as a marker of fetal‑placental health; abnormal levels can indicate chromosomal, growth, or placental concerns.

Normal (serum) unconjugated estradiol varies by age, sex and menstrual phase: Premenopausal women ~15–350 pg/mL (lower in follicular phase, peaking around ovulation); Postmenopausal women <10–50 pg/mL; Adult men ~10–40 pg/mL; Children typically <10–30 pg/mL. Reference ranges differ by lab; interpret results with clinical context and discuss abnormal values with a clinician.

Estriol face cream is a weak topical estrogen that may improve menopausal skin changes and usually has lower systemic absorption than oral HRT. Some systemic uptake can occur and long‑term safety data are limited. Avoid if you have or had estrogen‑sensitive cancer, are pregnant or breastfeeding. Possible local irritation and systemic estrogen effects exist—discuss risks, benefits and monitoring with your healthcare provider before use.

E2 (estradiol) is the primary, most potent human estrogen produced mainly by the ovaries during reproductive years; it strongly activates estrogen receptors and regulates menstrual cycle, bone, cardiovascular and brain functions. E3 (estriol) is a much weaker estrogen produced chiefly during pregnancy by the placenta from fetal precursors; it has lower receptor activity and systemic effects, and is less stimulatory to breast and uterine tissues.