Compare - Female Hormone Test (LGC)

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Estradiol

Estradiol (estradiol-17 beta, E2) is part of an estrogen that is a group of steroids that regulate the menstrual cycle and function as the main female sex hormones. Estrogens are responsible for the development of female sex organs and secondary sex characteristics and are tied to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. They are considered the main sex hormones in women and are present in small quantities in men. Estradiol (E2) is the predominant form of estrogen and is produced primarily in the ovaries with additional amounts produced by the adrenal glands in women and in the testes and adrenal glands in men. Estradiol levels are used in evaluating ovarian function. Estradiol levels are increased in cases of early (precocious) puberty in girls and gynecomastia in men. Its main use has been in the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea – for example, to determine whether the cause is menopause, pregnancy, or a medical problem. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements are used to monitor follicle development in the ovary in the days prior to in vitro fertilization. Estradiol is also sometimes used to monitor menopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Also known as: Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone

Fsh

Lh

Also known as: PRL

Prolactin

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the anterior portion of the pituitary gland, a grape-sized organ found at the base of the brain. Prolactin secretion is regulated and inhibited by the brain chemical dopamine. Normally present in low amounts in men and non-pregnant women, prolactin's primary role is to promote lactation (breast milk production). Prolactin levels are usually high throughout pregnancy and just after childbirth. During pregnancy, the hormones prolactin, estrogen, and progesterone stimulate breast milk development. Following childbirth, prolactin helps initiate and maintain the breast milk supply. If a woman does not breastfeed, her prolactin level soon drops back to pre-pregnancy levels. If she does nurse, suckling by the infant plays an important role in the release of prolactin. There is a feedback mechanism between how often the baby nurses and the amount of prolactin secreted by the pituitary as well as the amount of milk produced. Another common cause of elevated prolactin levels is a prolactinoma, a prolactin-producing tumor of the pituitary gland. Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary tumor and are usually benign. They develop more frequently in women but are also found in men. Problems resulting from them can arise both from the unintended effects of excess prolactin, such as milk production in the non-pregnant woman (and rarely, man) and from the size and location of the tumor. If the anterior pituitary gland and/or the tumor enlarge significantly, it can put pressure on the optic nerve, causing headaches and visual disturbances, and it can interfere with the other hormones that the pituitary gland produces. In women, prolactinomas can cause infertility and irregularities in menstruation; in men, these tumors can cause a gradual loss in sexual function and libido. If left untreated, prolactinomas may eventually damage the tissues around them.
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The Compare - Female Hormone Test (LGC) panel contains 3 tests with 4 biomarkers.

Why pay $139 for Lets Get Checked's Female Hormone finger prick test kit when you can experience the convenience and affordablity of a Female Hormone lab test with Ulta Lab Tests - compare now and save!

Female Hormone Lab Test

The Female Hormone lab test, also known as the Female Hormone Panel, is a comprehensive diagnostic assessment that measures several key hormone markers in females. This panel includes markers such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Prolactin, and Estradiol. These hormones play essential roles in the female reproductive system and overall endocrine health.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Note: For any patients for whom low estradiol levels are anticipated such as pre-pubertal children and hypogonadal/post-menopausal females, the Estradiol, Ultrasensitive, LC/MS/MS #30289 assay is recommended.

When and Why the Female Hormone Lab Test May Be Ordered

Timing of the Test: The Female Hormone lab test can be ordered at various times, depending on the clinical context, the patient's age, and specific health concerns. It may be performed on specific days of the menstrual cycle to assess hormonal fluctuations.

Reasons for Ordering the Test:

  1. Evaluation of Menstrual Irregularities: Healthcare providers may order the Female Hormone lab test when a patient presents with irregular menstrual cycles, including absent or infrequent periods, heavy bleeding, or spotting.

  2. Assessment of Fertility: For individuals experiencing difficulty conceiving, the test helps evaluate hormonal factors that may affect fertility. FSH and LH play crucial roles in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

  3. Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): The panel may be used to diagnose PCOS, a common hormonal disorder in women. Elevated LH levels and altered FSH-to-LH ratios are often seen in PCOS.

  4. Evaluation of Hormonal Imbalances: The Female Hormone lab test assesses the balance of key hormones in the female reproductive system, which can provide insights into hormonal imbalances and their effects on overall health.

  5. Monitoring Hormone Replacement Therapy: For women undergoing hormone replacement therapy, such as estrogen replacement therapy, regular testing helps healthcare providers monitor hormone levels and adjust treatment regimens as needed.

What the Female Hormone Lab Test Checks For

The Female Hormone lab test measures several hormone markers:

  1. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): FSH plays a central role in the menstrual cycle by stimulating the growth and development of ovarian follicles, which contain the developing eggs.

  2. Luteinizing Hormone (LH): LH is involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and triggers ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary.

  3. Prolactin: Prolactin is primarily associated with lactation, but elevated levels can affect the menstrual cycle and fertility.

  4. Estradiol: Estradiol is a form of estrogen and is essential for female reproductive health. It influences the menstrual cycle, bone health, and other physiological processes.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results

Healthcare providers use the results of the Female Hormone lab test to:

  1. Diagnose Hormonal Disorders: Abnormal levels of FSH, LH, prolactin, or estradiol can indicate hormonal disorders such as PCOS, hypothalamic amenorrhea, or hyperprolactinemia.

  2. Assess Fertility: The test helps evaluate ovulatory function and fertility. Elevated FSH and LH levels or altered ratios can provide insights into fertility issues.

  3. Guide Treatment Decisions: For individuals with hormonal imbalances affecting the menstrual cycle or fertility, the results help guide treatment decisions. Treatment may involve hormonal therapies, lifestyle modifications, or fertility interventions.

  4. Monitor Hormone Replacement Therapy: Women undergoing hormone replacement therapy, especially after menopause, may have their hormone levels monitored to ensure optimal hormone balance and treatment effectiveness.

  5. Evaluate Menopausal Transition: The Female Hormone lab test can assess hormonal changes associated with menopause, helping healthcare providers guide patients through this life stage and manage symptoms.

In summary, the Female Hormone lab test assesses several key hormone markers involved in the female reproductive system and overall endocrine health. It aids in diagnosing hormonal disorders, assessing fertility, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring hormone replacement therapy, ultimately contributing to improved reproductive and hormonal well-being in females.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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