Hormone Panel (Female)

This female hormone panel measures estrogens, progesterone, hemoglobin A1c, albumin, sex hormone binding globulin, , estradiol, total testosterone, free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, unconjugated DHEA, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and prolactin total levels in the blood. Your hormone levels are always fluctuating and can affect your menstrual cycle, mood, metabolism, fertility, and sleep and body processes. Imbalances in these hormones may be a reason for irregular periods, problems with ovulation, fertility issues, and other underlying conditions, like PCOS.

The following signs and symptoms may indicate reproductive hormone problems in women:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Weight gain or bloating
• Insomnia or sleep disturbance
• Fatigue
• Infertility
• Acne, dry skin, or other skin issues
• Hot flashes/flushes or night sweats
• Mood changes, like anxiousness or irritability
• Depression
• Headaches
• Muscle weakness and/or joint pain
• Hirsutism (growing face or body hair in unusually large amounts)
• Androgenic alopecia (thinning hair or hair loss)
• Enlarged polycystic ovaries
• Breast tenderness or pain

Preparation:

If you have a period during your cycle, it is best to have your sample collected on cycle days 2, 3 or 4 (cycle day 1 is the first day of your period). If you do not get your period, the test can be performed at any time. Overnight fasting is required for this panel (10-12 hours without food). Because testosterone levels are usually highest in the morning, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment to have your sample collected early in the day. If you are taking supplements or medications, check with your healthcare provider to see whether you should take them before the test.