Back to glossary

Fertility Glossary

Oestradiol

The main oestrogen hormone that reflects follicle growth and prepares the uterine lining.

Anatomy & hormones

Oestradiol (E2) is the principal oestrogen produced by growing ovarian follicles. Its level rises through the follicular phase and thickens the endometrium in preparation for a possible pregnancy. During IVF, serial oestradiol measurements alongside ultrasound help the clinical team track follicle growth, adjust stimulation medicine doses, and reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Oestradiol is also given as a medicine during frozen embryo transfer preparation to help build the uterine lining, under medical supervision.

Also known as: estradiol, E2, estrogen, oestrogen

Sources

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

Related terms

Ovarian stimulation

Using fertility medicines to encourage the ovaries to develop multiple mature eggs for IVF.

Endometrium

The uterine lining, where an embryo implants.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)

An exaggerated ovarian response to fertility medicines causing swelling, fluid shifts and, rarely, serious illness.

Frozen embryo transfer (FET)

Transferring an embryo that was previously vitrified and stored, after warming it in a later cycle.

Explore in-depth guides

Learn more with Antega's fertility guides and articles.

Browse guides