What is included in the Female Hormones Screen?

The following hormones are tested:

• Luteinizing hormone (LH)
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
• Prolactin (luteotropic hormone)
• Oestradiol (17 Beta) (A hormone affecting the activity of the ovaries)

This kit requires a blood sample collected by a medical professional (a phlebotomist).

Why have a Female Hormones Screen?

The female hormones screen will test you for the levels of four separate important hormones. Hormones are chemicals produced by certain cells in our bodies. These chemicals are responsible for regulating a wide variety of processes including metabolism, digestion, lactation and reproduction.

The hormones tested for in this profile are all involved in regulating a woman’s reproductive cycle. If they are not in balance, this can indicate problems with certain glands such as the Pituitary and Thyroid glands. High or low levels of these hormones can also affect a woman’s ability to conceive and carry a foetus to term. So these hormones are important indicators of reproductive health.

How does this test work?

Order your test from the panel on the right and we will post your kit to you first class. The kit will contain everything your phlebotomist needs to collect your blood sample. Step-by-step instructions are also provided, please follow them very carefully. When you have collected your sample, post it back to us in the pre-paid envelope provided. We will then email you with your results.

When will my test kit arrive?

Place your order before 4pm Monday to Friday, then we will post your kit to you on the same day. If you order after 4pm Monday to Friday, on a weekend, or on a bank holiday, your kit will be sent out the next working day. Kits are normally delivered in 2-4 working days, depending on where you live.

When will my results be ready?

Your results will be ready within 2 days of your sample being received in the laboratory.

What do the results mean?

This panel of tests can give an early indication of potential fertility problems in women. The Luteinizing hormone levels can indicate ovulation. They can also point to premature menopause and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

High levels of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) are often seen in a woman who is undergoing or has recently undergone, menopause. High FSH levels during the reproductive years are abnormal and may require further medical investigation. Conditions with high FSH levels include Premature Menopause also known as Premature Ovarian Failure and Poor Ovarian Reserve.

Prolactin is mainly responsible for stimulating the onset of lactation, or milk production. It also plays an important role in regulating levels of sex hormones, and the menstrual cycle.

Oestradiol (17 Beta) regulates the growth of reproductive tissues such as the cervical glands, the endometrium, the lining of the vagina, and the lining of the fallopian tubes. It also regulates the expression of other related hormones involved in reproduction.