Hormone tests

In our centres, we perform a range of basic and specialist tests, the results of which will help to determine the cause(s) of fertility problems. These include hormonal, immunological, genetic, and bacteriological tests, among others.

Hormone tests in women

Female infertility is often related to hormonal disorders. A properly functioning hormonal balance determines regular menstruation and the maintenance of pregnancy at an early stage. When looking for reasons in a couple that make it difficult to conceive a child, the doctor usually recommends checking selected hormones related to fertility.

The most frequently performed tests in the assessment of fertility include:

• Hormones that directly regulate ovarian function (folliculotropic hormone FSH and luteinizing hormone LH)

• Hormones secreted by the ovaries (oestradiol E2, testosterone, progesterone PRG)

• Hormones not directly related to ovarian function, but which may affect fertility (prolactin PRL, thyroid hormones TSH or fT4)

Determining the level of hormones sometimes allows to detect the cause of fertility problems and easily eliminate it (e.g. adjusting the level of prolactin) or determine whether there was ovulation during the cycle (e.g. determination of progesterone level in the second phase of the cycle). Specific hormonal tests should always be performed after medical consultation.

When and how they are performed?

All tests are done using blood samples, and for most of them, you don’t need to be on an empty stomach. However, the day of the cycle is usually important.

• Oestradiol, FSH: Day 1-3 of the cycle, any time of day

• Progesterone: Second half of the cycle, any time of day

• LH: Any day of the cycle for diagnostic purposes, periovulation to confirm ovulation, any time of day

• Prolactin: Any day of the cycle, preferably in the morning (fasting)

• Testosterone, TSH: Any day of the cycle, any time of day