A female hormone test, usually a blood test, measures levels of specific hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, fertility, and overall endocrine health. It is often used to investigate symptoms of hormonal imbalance, fertility issues, or conditions like PCOS or menopause.
Here are some of the most common hormones tested and what they help evaluate:
Key Reproductive Hormones
| Hormone | What it Measures | Clinical Relevance (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| Estrogen (primarily Estradiol - E2) | The most active form of estrogen, produced mainly by the ovaries. | Assesses ovarian function, infertility, symptoms of perimenopause/menopause, and helps monitor hormone replacement therapy. |
| Progesterone | Important for preparing the uterus lining for pregnancy after ovulation. | Confirms if and when ovulation has occurred (often tested mid-luteal phase, about 7 days after expected ovulation). |
| Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) | Produced by the pituitary gland; stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. | Evaluates ovarian function, ovarian reserve, and helps confirm the start of perimenopause or menopause. Often measured on Day 3 of the menstrual cycle. |
| Luteinizing Hormone (LH) | Produced by the pituitary gland; triggers ovulation. | Helps identify the cause of infertility, pinpoints ovulation, and can be used to diagnose conditions like PCOS (a high LH to FSH ratio may be seen). |
| Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) | Produced by the developing egg follicles in the ovaries. | Considered one of the most reliable indicators of ovarian reserve (the number of remaining eggs). Can be tested at any time of the cycle. High levels may be seen with PCOS. |
| Testosterone | Although often considered a male hormone, women also produce it in smaller amounts. | Evaluates symptoms like excess hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and irregular periods. High levels can suggest PCOS. |
| Prolactin | Produced by the pituitary gland; primarily associated with milk production (lactation). | High levels (hyperprolactinemia) can suppress ovulation and cause irregular or stopped periods and infertility. |
Other Related Hormones
* Thyroid Hormones (TSH, Free T3, Free T4): Thyroid problems are common in women and can significantly impact the menstrual cycle and fertility.
* DHEA-S and Cortisol: These are adrenal hormones that can also be related to hormonal symptoms and stress.
When to Get Tested
The timing of the test is often crucial, especially if you are still menstruating, as hormone levels fluctuate throughout the cycle:
* Day 3 of the cycle (Day 1 is the first day of bright red blood) is the standard time to check FSH, LH, and Estradiol to assess ovarian reserve and baseline function.
* Days 19-22 of a 28-day cycle (the mid-luteal phase) is the typical time to check Progesterone to confirm ovulation.
* AMH and Thyroid Hormones can often be tested at any time in the cycle.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, unexplained weight changes, infertility, hot flashes, or significant mood swings, you should consult with a healthcare professional. They can recommend the appropriate tests based on your symptoms and health history.