What's Your Number? Why Estradiol Blood Levels Matter More Than Dose

Feeling good on your current dose doesn't guarantee your bones and heart are protected. Research shows up to a 10-fold difference in blood estradiol levels between women using the exact same patch or gel dose — meaning the number on your prescription may not reflect what's actually circulating in your bloodstream. Here's the serum estradiol level to ask your provider about, and why it matters more than the dose itself.