Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test

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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.

Also known as: Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate, DHEA SO4, DHEA Sulfate Immunoassay, DHEAS, Transdehydroandrosterone

DHEA SULFATE

DHEA-sulfate test measures the amount of DHEA-sulfate in the blood. DHEA-sulfate is a weak male hormone (androgen) produced by the adrenal gland in both men and women.

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: Progesterone Immunoassay

Progesterone

Serum progesterone is a test to measure the amount of progesterone in the blood. Progesterone is a hormone produced mainly in the ovaries. In women, progesterone plays a vital role in pregnancy. After an egg is released by the ovaries (ovulation), progesterone helps make the uterus ready for implantation of a fertilized egg. It prepares the womb (uterus) for pregnancy and the breasts for milk production. Men produce some amount of progesterone, but it probably has no normal function except to help produce other steroid hormones.

Also known as: Testosterone Free Dialysis and Total LCMSMS

Free Testosterone

In many cases, measurement of total testosterone provides the doctor with adequate information. However, in certain cases, for example when the level of SHBG is abnormal, a test for free or bioavailable testosterone may be performed as it may more accurately reflect the presence of a medical condition.

TESTOSTERONE, TOTAL,

A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. In males, the testicles produce most of the testosterone in the body. Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of low testosterone: In boys -- early or late puberty and in men -- impotence, low level of sexual interest, infertility, thinning of the bones In females, the ovaries produce most of the testosterone and levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of higher testosterone levels, such as: decreased breast size, excess hair growth, increased size of the clitoris. irregular or absent menstrual periods and male-pattern baldness or hair thinning.
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The Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test panel contains 4 tests with 5 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test is a fundamental diagnostic tool designed to assess the levels of key hormones that play crucial roles in a woman's reproductive health, metabolism, and overall well-being. This panel typically includes tests for DHEA Sulfate, Estradiol, Progesterone, and both Free and Total Testosterone. By evaluating these hormone levels, healthcare providers can gain insights into a woman's hormonal balance, which is essential for diagnosing and managing various health conditions.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why the Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test May Be Ordered

This panel is often ordered for women experiencing symptoms suggestive of hormonal imbalances such as irregular menstrual cycles, fertility issues, symptoms of menopause, unexplained weight gain or loss, fatigue, or acne. It can also be used to monitor hormone levels in women undergoing hormone replacement therapy or those with conditions known to affect hormonal balance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or ovarian dysfunction.

What the Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test Checks For

  • DHEA Sulfate: This test measures the levels of DHEA sulfate, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor to both estrogens and androgens. It's an indicator of adrenal function and can provide insights into adrenal health and aging.
  • Estradiol: Estradiol, the primary form of estrogen in women of reproductive age, is crucial for regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive system. This test can help assess ovarian function and monitor fertility treatments or menopausal status.
  • Progesterone: Progesterone is a key hormone in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Its levels can indicate ovulation and overall ovarian health. Testing progesterone levels is particularly important for evaluating fertility and pregnancy health.
  • Testosterone Free and Total: Although testosterone is often considered a male hormone, it also plays a significant role in women's health, affecting libido, bone density, and muscle strength. This test measures both the free (biologically active) and total levels of testosterone.

Conditions and Diseases Detected by the Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test

This panel can help in the detection and management of several conditions:

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries, PCOS can be suggested by elevated testosterone levels and imbalances in estradiol and progesterone.
  • Menopause and Perimenopause: Changes in estradiol and progesterone levels can indicate the onset of menopause or the transition phase known as perimenopause, helping to manage associated symptoms.
  • Adrenal Disorders: Abnormal levels of DHEA sulfate can indicate adrenal gland disorders such as adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal insufficiency.
  • Ovarian Dysfunction: Abnormal estradiol or progesterone levels can signal issues with ovarian function, impacting fertility and menstrual health.

Using the Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test Results in Clinical Practice

Healthcare professionals use the results from this panel to:

  • Manage PCOS: By adjusting lifestyle interventions and possibly prescribing medications to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms.
  • Address Menopause and Perimenopause: Through hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments aimed at relieving symptoms and protecting long-term health.
  • Treat Adrenal Disorders: By prescribing medications to correct hormonal imbalances or recommending surgery in severe cases.
  • Improve Fertility: By offering treatments that can stimulate ovulation or address underlying hormonal imbalances.

The Female Basic Hormone Panel Blood Test is a valuable diagnostic resource for understanding a woman's hormonal health. By providing a snapshot of crucial hormones, this panel aids in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring conditions that affect women's reproductive health, metabolism, and overall well-being. With these insights, healthcare providers can offer targeted treatments to restore hormonal balance and improve quality of life.

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

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