Reproductive Hormone Tests (Pregnancy & Fertility)

Reproductive hormone tests show how well your ovulation, ovarian reserve, pituitary-thyroid axis, and (for men) testicular hormones are working. Because fertility is influenced by several systems—ovaries/testes, pituitary, thyroid, and metabolic health—a stepwise lab plan helps you and your clinician decide what to do next.

A practical path starts with ovulation and reserve (mid-luteal progesteroneAMH, and day-3 FSH/LH/estradiol), then adds prolactin and TSH. If cycles are irregular or PCOS is suspected, include androgens (total/free testosterone, DHEA-SSHBG, ± 17-hydroxyprogesterone). For the male partner, measure morning total testosteronefree T/SHBGLH/FSH, and prolactin (semen analysis is separate). In selected cases, add hCG (pregnancy status) and general health labs (A1c, lipids, CBC/CMP, vitamin D).

These tests support screeningdiagnostic triage, and monitoring, but they do not replace a clinician’s exam, pelvic or scrotal ultrasound, tubal imaging (HSG), semen analysis, or emergency care.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Cycle & ovulation: irregular or absent periods, short cycles, prolonged cycles, mid-cycle spotting, unclear ovulation timing

  • PCOS-type clues: acne, unwanted facial/body hair, scalp hair thinning, weight gain, insulin resistance or prediabetes

  • Thyroid & prolactin: fatigue, cold intolerance, hair loss, galactorrhea (milk discharge), headaches/visual changes

  • Male sexual health: low libido, fewer morning erections, erectile difficulties, fatigue

  • History & risks: prior pelvic surgery or infection, endometriosis, miscarriage, chemotherapy/radiation, high-intensity training with low body weight, tobacco/cannabis, heavy alcohol, anabolic steroids or opioids

  • Seek urgent care now: severe pelvic or testicular pain, heavy bleeding, fever with pelvic pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of ectopic pregnancy

All symptoms and risks should be reviewed by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Confirm ovulation and timing (mid-luteal progesterone)

  • Estimate ovarian reserve for planning (AMH; day-3 FSH/E2)

  • Identify endocrine drivers of anovulation or low libido (prolactin, thyroid, androgens, testosterone)

  • Provide whole-health context (A1c, lipids, CBC/CMP, vitamin D) that influences fertility and pregnancy outcomes

  • Track trends before, during, and after treatment or lifestyle changes

What testing cannot do

  • Guarantee pregnancy or replace imaging for uterine/tubal or testicular/vascular problems

  • Diagnose endometriosis, tubal blockage, or varicocele on blood tests alone

  • Use AMH to predict natural conception precisely; it is best for reserve context and treatment planning

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Ovulation

    • Progesterone (mid-luteal): draw about 7 days before your expected period (or 7 days after ovulation if tracked). Helps confirm ovulation and refine timing.

  • Ovarian reserve

    • AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): reflects the remaining follicle pool; relatively cycle-independent.

    • Day-3 FSH, LH, Estradiol: higher day-3 FSH and/or estradiol can suggest lower reserve; interpret together.

  • Pituitary & thyroid

    • Prolactin: elevated levels can suppress ovulation and libido; persistent elevations need clinical review.

    • TSH ± Free T4: thyroid imbalance can affect cycles, ovulation, semen parameters, and pregnancy outcomes.

  • PCOS & adrenal/androgen profile

    • Total/Free Testosterone, SHBG, DHEA-S, 17-Hydroxyprogesterone: evaluate androgen excess and rule out select adrenal conditions; LH:FSH ratio is supportive but not diagnostic.

  • Male hormones (infertility context)

    • Morning Total TestosteroneFree T/SHBGLH/FSHProlactin, ± Estradiol (sensitive) to localize primary vs central causes of low T or impaired spermatogenesis. (Semen analysis is ordered separately.)

  • Pregnancy status & early trends

    • Quantitative hCG: confirms pregnancy and trends viability when guided by a clinician; use with ultrasound.

  • General health (context)

    • A1c/fasting glucoselipid panel (± ApoB)CBC/CMPvitamin D—metabolic health influences reproductive outcomes.

Quick Build Guide

Clinical goal Start with Add if needed
Trying to conceive—baseline AMH • Day-3 FSH/LH/E2 • Mid-luteal Progesterone • TSH • Prolactin A1c • Lipids • CBC/CMP • Vitamin D
Irregular/absent cycles TSH • Prolactin • AMH • hCG (if late period) Total/Free T • DHEA-S • SHBG • 17-OH-Progesterone • A1c/Insulin • Lipids
PCOS suspected Total/Free T • DHEA-S • SHBG • A1c/Insulin • Lipids TSH • Prolactin • Day-3 FSH/LH/E2
Confirm ovulation Progesterone (mid-luteal) Consider repeat next cycle for consistency
Male infertility hormone screen AM Total T • Free T/SHBG • LH/FSH • Prolactin Estradiol (sensitive) • A1c • Lipids
Before IVF/ART AMH • Day-3 FSH/E2 • TSH • Prolactin CBC/CMP • A1c • Infectious disease screens (per clinician)
Recurrent pregnancy loss (selected) TSH • Prolactin Antiphospholipid antibodies (clinician-directed)

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Plan your timing: AMH any day; day-3 FSH/LH/E2 on cycle day 3; progesterone ~7 days before your next period (or 7 days after ovulation). Male hormones are best in the morning.

  2. Prepare as directed: fasting only if your order includes fasting glucose/insulin or lipids. List medicines and supplements (biotin may interfere with some assays).

  3. Provide samples: standard blood draw; pregnancy testing may require repeat hCG draws.

  4. Combine with clinical tools: results are interpreted with history, exam, ultrasound, tubal imaging, and semen analysis as appropriate.

  5. Monitor trends: repeat key hormones to confirm abnormalities or track changes over time.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Progesterone pattern consistent with ovulation: confirms an ovulatory cycle; align timing for conception or treatment.

  • AMH & day-3 FSH/E2 together: inform ovarian reserve and expected response to stimulation; they do notpredict natural fertility by themselves.

  • Elevated prolactin or abnormal TSH: can disrupt ovulation/sexual function; needs clinician evaluation.

  • Androgen elevations with metabolic changes: support a PCOS pattern; diagnosis uses clinical criteria and sometimes ultrasound.

  • Low morning testosterone (men): repeat AM and interpret with LH/FSH to localize cause; consider semen analysis.

  • hCG trends: rising values support early pregnancy but should be paired with ultrasound per clinician.
    Always interpret patterns with a qualified healthcare professional; trends and context matter more than a single value.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Core reproductive hormone panel: AMH • Day-3 FSH/LH/E2 • Mid-luteal Progesterone • TSH • Prolactin

  • PCOS/irregular cycle add-ons: Total/Free Testosterone • SHBG • DHEA-S • 17-OH-Progesterone • A1c/Insulin • Lipids

  • Male infertility add-ons: AM Total T • Free T/SHBG • LH/FSH • Prolactin • Estradiol (sensitive) (semen analysis separate)

  • Early pregnancy context: Quantitative hCG (repeat trending)

  • Whole-health add-ons: CBC/CMP • Vitamin D • Lipids (± ApoB) • A1c
    Choose bundled panels for efficient screening; add individual markers to answer targeted questions.

FAQs

When should I start fertility hormone testing?
If you’re <35, after 12 months of trying; if ≥35, after 6 months; sooner for very irregular cycles, known risks, or by clinician advice.

Do I need to fast?
Only if your panel includes fasting glucose/insulin or lipids.

Does AMH tell me if I can get pregnant naturally?
No. AMH estimates ovarian reserve, not month-to-month chances. It’s most useful for planning and response to stimulation.

What day is “day-3” testing?
The third day of bleeding. If cycles are irregular, your clinician may guide timing.

Can birth control affect results?
Hormonal contraception can suppress some values. Ask your clinician about timing labs after stopping.

Can blood tests diagnose PCOS by themselves?
No. They support diagnosis alongside symptoms, ultrasound, and exclusion of other conditions.

Do male hormone tests replace a semen analysis?
No. Semen analysis is essential in a couple’s evaluation.

Is one progesterone test enough to confirm ovulation?
It helps, but repeating in another cycle improves confidence, especially with irregular cycles.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Pregnancy & Fertility Tests Hub

  • Women’s Infertility Tests • Male Infertility Tests • Reproductive Health Tests • Prenatal Health Tests • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) • Thyroid Tests

  • Key Tests: AMH • Day-3 FSH • LH • Estradiol • Progesterone (mid-luteal) • Prolactin • TSH • Free T4 • Total Testosterone (AM) • Free Testosterone • SHBG • DHEA-S • 17-Hydroxyprogesterone • Estradiol (sensitive, men) • hCG (quantitative) • A1c • Lipid Panel • CBC • CMP • Vitamin D

References

  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine — Fertility evaluation of infertile women and men; AMH guidance.
  • Endocrine Society — Clinical practice guidelines on PCOS and testosterone deficiency.
  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Ovulatory disorders and thyroid disease in pregnancy.
  • European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology — Ovarian reserve testing and ART preparation.
  • World Health Organization — Semen examination manual (context for male factor).
  • Clinical reviews on mid-luteal progesterone timing, hCG trends in early pregnancy, and interpretation of day-3 FSH/E2.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Reproductive Hormone Tests (Pregnancy & Fertility) menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with a core hormone panel (AMH, day-3 FSH/LH/E2, mid-luteal progesterone, TSH, prolactin). Use filters to add PCOS/androgen markersmale hormone testshCG, and whole-health labs (A1c, lipids, CBC/CMP, vitamin D). Follow timing instructions and review results with your clinician to coordinate imaging, semen analysis, and next steps.

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The 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) Test measures levels of 17-OHP, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, to help diagnose congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and other adrenal disorders. Elevated levels may indicate enzyme deficiencies affecting cortisol production, while low levels can suggest adrenal insufficiency. Doctors order this test for infants with ambiguous genitalia or adults with irregular periods, infertility, or abnormal androgen symptoms.

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Also Known As: 17-OHP Test, 17-OH Progesterone Test

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The ACTH Test measures adrenocorticotropic hormone in blood to evaluate pituitary and adrenal gland function. Abnormal ACTH levels may indicate Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, adrenal tumors, or pituitary disorders. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, weakness, or high blood pressure. Results provide vital insight into endocrine health, cortisol regulation, and adrenal-pituitary balance.

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Also Known As: Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Test, Corticotropin Test

The Aldosterone 24 Hour Urine Test evaluates adrenal hormone output across 24 hours, offering information about blood pressure regulation, fluid balance, and electrolyte control. Elevated or low levels may suggest primary aldosteronism, adrenal tumors, or secondary hypertension. This test supports assessment of kidney function, cardiovascular health, and endocrine disorders linked to aldosterone imbalance.

Urine
Urine Collection

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The Aldosterone Test measures levels of aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate blood pressure, sodium, and potassium balance. Abnormal levels may indicate primary aldosteronism, adrenal tumors, kidney disease, or secondary hypertension. Doctors use this blood test to investigate high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, or suspected adrenal disorders, helping guide diagnosis, treatment, and long-term patient management.

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Also Known As: Aldosterone Plasma Test

The Aldosterone and Plasma Renin Activity Ratio Test measures levels of aldosterone and renin to assess adrenal and kidney function. An elevated ratio may indicate primary aldosteronism, a common cause of secondary hypertension. Doctors use this test to evaluate patients with high blood pressure, low potassium, or suspected adrenal disorders. Results help diagnose conditions like Conn’s syndrome, guide treatment, and reduce cardiovascular risks from uncontrolled hypertension.

Also Known As: Aldosterone/Plasma Renin Activity Ratio Test, Aldosterone and Renin Activity Test

The Androstenedione Test measures levels of this steroid hormone, produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries or testes, which converts into testosterone and estrogen. Abnormal results may indicate PCOS, adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or ovarian/testicular disorders. Doctors order this test for irregular periods, infertility, excess hair growth, or early puberty. Results provide key insight into hormone balance, adrenal function, and reproductive health.

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Also Known As: AD Test


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The Cortisol AM Test measures morning cortisol levels in blood to evaluate adrenal gland function and stress response. Cortisol peaks in the morning, making this test critical for detecting adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), Cushing’s syndrome, or other hormone imbalances. Doctors also use it to investigate fatigue, weight changes, or high blood pressure. This test provides important insight into endocrine health, metabolism, and long-term stress regulation.

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Also Known As: Morning Cortisol Test

The Deoxycorticosterone Test evaluates adrenal gland function by measuring this mineralocorticoid precursor that influences salt retention and blood pressure. Abnormal levels may reflect congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or enzyme deficiencies impacting hormone synthesis. Results help providers investigate hypertension, electrolyte imbalance, and suspected adrenal endocrine disorders.

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The DHEA Unconjugated Test measures levels of dehydroepiandrosterone, an adrenal hormone that serves as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen. Abnormal levels may indicate adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or hormone imbalance. Doctors order this test to evaluate infertility, irregular cycles, excess hair growth, or early puberty. Results provide insight into adrenal gland function, reproductive health, and endocrine disorders.

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Also Known As: Dehydroepiandrosterone Test

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The DHEA Sulfate (DHEA-S) Test measures levels of DHEA-S, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, to evaluate adrenal function and hormone balance. It helps detect adrenal tumors, hyperplasia, or insufficiency and assess abnormal hair growth, infertility, or early/late puberty. Doctors also use it to investigate irregular menstrual cycles, monitor androgen disorders, and evaluate symptoms of hormone imbalance affecting reproductive and metabolic health.

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Also Known As: DHEA Sulfate Test, Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Test

The Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Test measures levels of DHT, a potent androgen derived from testosterone, to evaluate hormone balance. Abnormal results may indicate hair loss, prostate disorders, infertility, or hormonal imbalance. Doctors order this test for men and women with symptoms such as hair thinning, acne, irregular periods, or low libido. It is also used to monitor treatment for prostate disease or hormone therapy, providing insight into reproductive and endocrine health.

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Also Known As: DHT Test

The Dopamine Urine Test evaluates urinary dopamine levels to help identify abnormalities in catecholamine metabolism. Measuring dopamine excretion supports detection of adrenal gland disorders, neuroendocrine tumors such as pheochromocytomas, and conditions affecting nervous system regulation. This test offers key information about neurotransmitter activity, aiding in the assessment of dopamine-related disorders and underlying metabolic or endocrine imbalances.

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The Erythropoietin (EPO) Test measures levels of erythropoietin, a hormone made by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production. Abnormal levels may indicate anemia, chronic kidney disease, or bone marrow disorders. Elevated EPO can also occur with low oxygen levels or tumors. Doctors order this test for patients with unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath, or abnormal blood counts. Results help guide diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of anemia-related conditions.

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Also Known As: Erythropoietin Test

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The Estradiol (E2) Test measures levels of estradiol, the primary form of estrogen, to evaluate reproductive and hormonal health. It helps assess menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, menopause status, and estrogen-producing disorders. In men, it aids in diagnosing hormonal imbalances. Doctors use the estradiol test to monitor hormone therapy, ovarian function, and conditions affecting puberty, bone health, and overall endocrine balance.

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Also Known As: E2 Test, Estrogen 2 Test

 The Estradiol and Testosterone Total Test is a diagnostic blood test that measures the levels of two key hormones in the body: estradiol and total testosterone. These hormones play crucial roles in various physiological processes, particularly in reproductive and sexual health, making this test important for assessing hormone balance.
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The Estradiol Free Test measures unbound estradiol, the biologically active form of estrogen, to evaluate hormonal balance. Free estradiol plays a critical role in reproductive health, menstrual regulation, bone strength, and cardiovascular function. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions such as infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, menopausal transition, or estrogen-related endocrine disorders, aiding diagnostic and treatment decisions.

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Reproductive hormones do more than just affecting your fertility. These hormones are responsible for causing symptoms such as abnormal hair growth, balding, and mood swings. If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consider a reproductive hormone lab test to see your reproductive hormone levels. It helps determine if you need hormone replacement therapy. Whether you plan to conceive soon or not, you should have the right balance of reproductive hormones in your body. Keep reading this article to learn more about how reproductive hormones affect your body and whether it is time for you to get a reproductive hormone test.

Reproductive Hormone Imbalance

An imbalance of reproductive hormones in your body can cause various problems over time. Reproductive hormones include:

Reproductive hormone imbalance differs according to its symptoms and outcomes. Here are four major types of reproductive hormone imbalances and their effect on your bod

  • Menopause symptoms
  • Ovarian insufficiency
  • Low testosterone in men
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Hormonal imbalances affect both men and women. 

Reproductive Hormonal Imbalance - Risk Factor

The actual cause of reproductive hormone imbalance is still not known. Hence, it's difficult to state what kinds of activities put people at a greater risk for developing such a condition. But current research reveals a few trends in people suffering from reproductive hormone imbalances, such as:

  • Being overweight
  • Older age
  • Little to no exercise
  • Poor diet
  • Living in toxic environments
  • High levels of stress

These risks are simply trends in the patient population that suffers from reproductive hormonal imbalances, but they do not determine if someone has a hormonal imbalance. If you think you have a hormonal imbalance, you should talk to your healthcare provider even if any one of these qualities doesn't describe your condition. 

The Causes of Reproductive Hormone Imbalance

There are different types of reproductive hormone imbalances out there. Each imbalance starts with the endocrine system, but the actual causes of the imbalance are mostly unknown. Some researchers believe that reproductive hormone imbalances are autoimmune in nature. But some others think that the individuals' diet and environment have much to do with the condition. It's hard to pinpoint a specific cause for the condition since research is still ongoing. 

Symptoms Of Reproductive Hormone Imbalance

There are multiple symptoms of reproductive hormonal imbalance. The imbalance can result in too much or too little of a reproductive hormone, and the patient's symptoms will reflect the lack or excess of the reproductive hormone that is out of balance. Some patients may have hot flashes, while some may have chills when they suffer from the condition. On the other hand, some patients can be hungry all the time, while others may not be hungry at all. The symptoms depend on which hormone is out of balance.

When the ovaries don't properly develop, it will result in ovarian insufficiency syndrome. This can occur due to the lack of proper endocrine signaling or an autoimmune problem. Due to the fertility problems that result from this syndrome, the condition is also known as premature menopause. The ovaries get damaged due to radiation or chemotherapy. That is why women who go through radiation or chemotherapy treatments cannot conceive after the treatments.

Damaged ovaries cause an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone in the system of the patient. It may lead to a myriad of symptoms, including:

  • Hot flashes
  • Dry eyes
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Night sweats
  • Irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating

Menopause is considered another type of hormonal imbalance, but it's completely normal to go through menopause. Estrogen and progesterone levels in the patient's body will be quite low during menopause. However, hormone replacement therapy will help some patients avoid the symptoms that come with this condition.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that produces high testosterone levels in the female body. Testosterone is the primary male reproductive hormone. Symptoms of excess amounts of male hormones in a woman's body can include:

  • Infertility
  • Acne
  • Oily Skin
  • Excess body hair
  • Missed or irregular periods
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Large ovaries
  • Male-pattern baldness

The condition can also result in diabetes, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular diseases. Although some experts believe that PCOS is an autoimmune condition of the endocrine system, it still hasn't been proven. 

Symptoms of low testosterone levels in men include:

  • Weakness
  • Infertility
  • Low energy
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Slower metabolism
  • Low bone density

Similar to hormonal imbalances in women, male imbalances should be identified and treated as soon as possible. 

Lab Tests to Diagnose Reproductive Hormone Imbalances

Lab work is important to determine whether you have a hormonal imbalance or not. Luckily, Ulta Lab Tests offers a wide range of lab tests to check if you have a reproductive hormone imbalance. Our lab tests will look at the testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and other hormone levels in your body. By measuring the levels of hormones in your body, you can see whether or not you have a hormone imbalance. 

If your test results determine that you have a reproductive hormone imbalance, you should talk to your healthcare provider immediately. Your physician will perform an evaluation to determine what could be causing your hormone imbalance and develop an appropriate treatment plan for your condition.

Order your hormone lab tests with Ulta Lab Tests

If you notice signs of reproductive hormone imbalances, you should act fast. Hormone imbalances will become worse when left untreated. Ulta Lab Tests provides highly accurate and reliable lab tests to make informed decisions about your health. Here are some of the reasons why people loving using Ulta Lab Tests:

  • No health insurance required
  • Secure and confidential results
  • Affordable pricing on all tests
  • No need for a physician's referral
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee 
  • Results are available in 24-48 hours for most tests

Take control of your health and well-being by ordering your hormone lab tests from Ulta Lab Tests.