Why is this test important?
This hormone profile enables targeted clarification in cases of cycle disorders, suspected PCOS, unfulfilled desire to have children, as well as complaints during menopause. It shows whether the ovaries are being stimulated regularly, whether ovulation occurs, and whether a hormone imbalance exists. This allows both ovarian function and androgen status to be assessed in detail.
Included Parameters
- FSH: Follicle-stimulating hormone, responsible for the maturation of eggs in the ovary. A value that is too high or too low can indicate impaired ovarian function.
- LH: Luteinizing hormone that triggers ovulation.
- Estradiol (E2): The most important estrogen during reproductive age. It reflects ovarian function and the respective cycle phase.
- Progesterone: Hormone of the second half of the cycle. An increase confirms ovulation and adequate corpus luteum function.
- DHEAS: An androgen produced mainly in the adrenal gland. Elevated values may indicate excessive androgen influence.
- SHBG: Protein that binds sex hormones in the blood. A low value increases the proportion of free testosterone.
- Prolactin: Hormone that when elevated can inhibit ovulation and cause cycle disorders.
- Testosterone (total): Androgen that occurs in low concentration in women.
- Free androgen index (FAI): Calculated value from testosterone and SHBG that reflects the proportion of biologically active, free testosterone.
Practical Notes on Blood Collection
Timing in the cycle:
- Baseline (FSH, LH, estradiol): Cycle day 2–5.
- Progesterone to confirm ovulation: Day 21 in a 28-day cycle or approximately 7 days after ovulation.
Medications: Hormonal contraception/HRT alter several values (e.g., LH/FSH, estradiol, SHBG); please specify.
Preparation: Morning collection, approximately 15 minutes rest; fasting is not mandatory, but avoid heavy stress or physical exertion before blood collection.
