Many women’s hormone blood testing at birth have hormones that are always changing. These hormones affect everything from the menstrual cycle to fertility and mood. When levels are off, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including abnormal periods and sex drive problems. These changes can also be a sign of certain medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disease, or they can indicate perimenopause or menopause.

Hormone blood testing provides a quick way for a doctor to look at specific hormone levels. These tests can be done in your doctor’s office or at a lab or hospital. Some hormones can be tested with a urine or saliva sample, but most require a small sample of blood that is taken using a needle or similar device.

Understanding Female Hormone Blood Tests and How They Work

The female hormone panel test measures follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, total testosterone, unconjugated DHEA, and prolactin. This is a great way to get a comprehensive view of the hormonal system that controls the menstrual and fertility cycles as well as the thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism. It’s often ordered when someone has symptoms of hormonal imbalances or a condition that can affect hormone balance such as PCOS.

This test can also check your levels of androgens, which are male sex hormones. High androgens are a sign of hyperandrogenism, which can be a symptom of PCOS or other underlying conditions. It can also give a good indication of how the adrenal gland is functioning.