Total Women’s Hormone Panel

This comprehensive blood test panel is a powerful tool your doctor uses to uncover the root causes of hormonal issues, especially when investigating conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Testing hormone levels is incredibly beneficial because hormones act as your body’s vital messengers, controlling nearly every system from metabolism and mood to fertility. When these messengers are imbalanced, it can cause a wide range of confusing symptoms.

Getting tested provides clear answers, allowing your doctor to accurately diagnose the root cause of issues like irregular periods, fatigue, weight changes, or fertility problems. This precise diagnosis leads to targeted, effective treatment, helping you feel better faster and preventing potential long-term complications. It empowers you to understand your body and take proactive steps for your overall health.

Is Your Cycle on Track? (Ovulatory Dysfunction)

When your period schedule is unpredictable, or perhaps missing altogether, it’s called ovulatory dysfunction. While hormonal imbalances are often culprits, your doctor will also check to ensure other common causes, like menopause, aren’t at play. Here’s what the tests in this category reveal for individuals assigned female at birth:

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Imagine FSH as the “kick-starter” hormone, sent from your brain to your ovaries. Its job is to get those tiny egg-containing follicles growing each month.
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Once an egg is nearly ready, a sudden surge in LH acts like a “release signal,” telling your ovary to let that mature egg go—this is ovulation.
• Estradiol: This is your primary female reproductive hormone, a type of estrogen. As an egg develops, it produces estradiol, which is vital for preparing your body for a potential pregnancy and supporting overall female health.
• SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin): Protein that controls hormone availability in the body.
• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Monitors thyroid function, which affects metabolism, mood, and energy.

The “Male” Hormone Balance (Androgen Excess)

Androgens are a group of hormones typically associated with male characteristics, but they’re present in everyone. When women have too much of these (a condition called hyperandrogenism), it can lead to symptoms like unwanted facial or body hair growth. Measuring these helps pinpoint hormonal issues, especially if the usual signs aren’t obvious.

• Testosterone, Total: This test measures the total amount of this prominent androgen in your blood. Even though women produce less, elevated levels can signal underlying hormonal conditions.
• DHEA-S: This is another androgen produced mainly by your adrenal glands. High levels here can also indicate an excess of these “male” hormones.

Ruling Out Other Causes (Differential Diagnosis)

Many different health problems can present with symptoms similar to hormonal imbalances, especially when it comes to irregular periods. These additional hormone checks help your doctor distinguish between various conditions:

• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Your pituitary gland sends TSH to your thyroid gland, which is like your body’s metabolism control center. If your thyroid isn’t working correctly (either too fast or too slow), it can significantly disrupt your menstrual cycle and cause symptoms easily mistaken for other hormonal issues.
• Prolactin: This hormone, also from your pituitary gland, is best known for its role in milk production. However, elevated levels not related to pregnancy or breastfeeding can interfere with normal ovulation, leading to missed or irregular periods.
• Cortisol: Measures stress hormone; important for energy and immune health.

Physician Review included

What to expect after the test

After you provide your specimen, it generally takes few business days to process and release your test results. Your test results will be available in a clear and easy-to-read report. Independent physicians are available to discuss questions or concerns you may have regarding your results.