Types of Hormone Tests for Women

Female hormones are essential to regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, reproduction, mood, and overall health. Imbalances in female hormone levels can cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, fatigue, and mood disorders. Several hormonal tests for females help diagnose the different types of hormones in women, guiding appropriate treatment.

 

Below is a female hormone test list featuring some of the most common hormone tests for women.

 

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test

Purpose: Evaluates ovarian function and menstrual cycle regularity.

 

FSH is a key female hormone that promotes the development and maturation of ovarian follicles, which house eggs. It is measured to assess ovarian reserve, diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or detect menopause.

 

• High FSH levels may indicate diminished ovarian reserve, menopause, or primary ovarian insufficiency.
• Low FSH levels may suggest hypothalamic or pituitary disorders that interfere with hormone production.

 

FSH hormone tests are often performed for accurate results on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle.

 

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Test

 

Purpose: Helps assess ovulation and reproductive health.

 

LH works alongside FSH to regulate the menstrual cycle and trigger ovulation. A surge in LH levels typically indicates ovulation, which is essential for conception.

 

• High LH levels may indicate PCOS, premature ovarian failure, or menopause.
• Low LH levels could be a sign of pituitary disorders affecting ovulation.

 

LH and FSH hormone tests are often conducted together to evaluate fertility issues and menstrual irregularities.

 

Oestrogen Test

Purpose: Measures oestrogen levels in the body, which are crucial for reproductive and overall health.

 

Oestrogen is the primary female hormone known for regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, and supporting pregnancy. The test measures the overall oestrogen level in the body, including oestradiol, oestrone, and oestriol.

 

• High oestrogen levels may indicate ovarian tumours, liver disease, or hormone therapy effects.
• Low oestrogen levels can be a sign of menopause, ovarian insufficiency, or pituitary disorders.

 

This helps diagnose conditions like menopause, menstrual disorders, and oestrogen-related hormonal imbalances.

 

Learn more about Diabetes and Menopause

 

Oestradiol (E2) Test

 

Purpose: Evaluates ovarian function and fertility.

 

Oestradiol is the most potent and biologically active form of oestrogen in women. It is crucial for menstrual, egg development, and reproductive health.

 

• High oestradiol levels may suggest ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or hormone-producing tumours.
• Low oestradiol levels can indicate menopause, ovarian insufficiency, or pituitary gland dysfunction.

 

Doctors use this hormone imbalance test to monitor fertility treatments, assess menopause status, and evaluate menstrual irregularities.

 

Progesterone Test

 

Purpose: Assesses ovulation and pregnancy health.

 

Progesterone is a female hormone released after ovulation to prepare the uterus for pregnancy. It helps in maintaining pregnancy and regulating the menstrual cycle.

 

• High progesterone levels may indicate pregnancy or ovarian cysts.
• Low progesterone levels can suggest ovulation problems, ectopic pregnancy, or miscarriage risk.

 

Doctors recommend this hormone test in the luteal phase to confirm ovulation.

 

Prolactin Test

 

Purpose: Checks for conditions affecting fertility and milk production.

 

Prolactin is responsible for breast milk production during pregnancy and postpartum. However, excessive prolactin levels can lead to menstrual disturbances and infertility.

 

• High prolactin levels may indicate pituitary gland disorders, hypothyroidism, or medication side effects.
• Low prolactin levels are rare but may be linked to pituitary dysfunction.

 

This test helps diagnose causes of irregular periods, infertility, and unexplained nipple discharge.

 

Testosterone Test

 

Purpose: Evaluates hormonal imbalances, particularly in cases of PCOS.

 

Though mainly a male hormone, women produce small amounts for reproduction and muscle maintenance.

 

• High testosterone levels may suggest PCOS, adrenal gland disorders, or ovarian tumours.
• Low testosterone levels can contribute to fatigue, low libido, and mood disturbances.

 

Women with symptoms like excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, or irregular periods may be advised to take this hormonal test for females.

 

Thyroid Hormone Tests (TSH, T3, T4)

 

Purpose: Assesses thyroid function, which impacts metabolism and reproductive health.

 

The thyroid gland secretes hormones that regulate bodily functions, energy levels, and metabolism.

 

• TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) controls thyroid activity. Abnormal levels may signal hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
• T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine) help evaluate thyroid function and metabolism regulation.

 

Thyroid imbalances can cause irregular periods, fatigue, weight changes, and fertility issues.

 

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Test

 

Purpose: Assesses ovarian reserve and fertility potential.

 

AMH is a female hormone released by ovarian follicles. It helps assess a woman’s ovarian reserve and fertility potential.

 

• High AMH levels are often associated with PCOS but indicate a good ovarian reserve.
• Low AMH levels suggest diminished ovarian reserve and possible challenges in conception.

 

This hormone test for women is commonly used for fertility assessments and in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) planning.

 

If experiencing symptoms like fatigue, irregular cycles, or mood swings, consult a healthcare provider and consider hormone tests for early diagnosis and management of hormone problems in females. Book an oestrogen test with Dr Lal PathLabs for accurate insights.

 

FAQs

1. What are the different types of hormones in women?

 

The primary female hormones include Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), oestrogen, oestradiol, and Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH).

 

2. What are normal FSH and LH levels in females?

 

Normal FSH and LH levels in females fluctuate based on age and the phase of the menstrual cycle. In the early part of the cycle, both hormone levels are generally lower, while they surge as ovulation approaches.