If you have unanswered questions about your health and wellbeing, a hormone blood test can unlock the secrets of your body. From mood swings to weight fluctuations, this article explores the benefits of diagnosing chemical imbalances.
The female body undergoes dramatic changes over time, with hormones affecting key functions. These can affect your energy levels, fertility, menstrual cycle, general health and menopause symptoms. However, many problems go undiagnosed meaning women are suffering health issues that could be treated.
Data published by the National Institute of Care and Excellence (NICE), estimates that women are 10 times more likely to suffer from an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) than men. Research by the European Thyroid Journal found that “a considerable proportion of the European population has hypothyroidism, particularly subclinical hypothyroidism, which is undiagnosed”.
If monitoring and understanding your body is key to maintaining optimal health, a hormone blood test can provide the answers.
What are the benefits of a hormone blood test?
Taking a simple blood test can provide the information medical professionals need to analyse the hormone levels in a woman’s body. This has the following benefits:
- Early diagnosis: identifying the warning signs of hormonal imbalances means treatment can begin sooner, preventing the symptoms developing.
- Fertility management: a hormone blood test can reveal crucial information about your ovulation and reproductive health. This insight can increase the chances of successful conception.
- Treatment plan: guided by your test results, doctors can tailor your treatment to your needs by advising on hormone replacement therapy or lifestyle changes.
What hormones can be tested?
A hormone blood test for women will typically target indicators relating to fertility, menopause and thyroid.
- Oestrogen: the main female hormone controls a woman’s reproductive organs and sexual characteristics. Important for the menstrual cycle and preparing the body for pregnancy. It also influences bone growth and emotional wellbeing.
- Progesterone: this hormone prepares the uterus before pregnancy and then supports placenta development during pregnancy, as well as influencing the menstrual cycle, mood swings and sleep patterns.
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): produced by the pituitary gland, this hormone is responsible for developing ovarian follicles containing eggs. It also stimulates oestrogen production and prepares the body for ovulation.
- Luteinising Hormone (LH): another hormone originating from the pituitary gland, LH works with FSH to regulate the menstrual cycle. LH triggers ovulation and promotes the release of eggs by the ovaries.
- Prolactin: this controls milk production and breast development. Levels should rise during pregnancy and then remain high while breastfeeding.
- Testosterone: often regarded as a male hormone, testosterone helps women maintain muscle and bone density, as well as boosting energy levels. It also influences sex drive, moods and brain function.
Book your hormone blood test
Hopefully you now understand why a hormone blood test is essential to monitor and maintain female health. Get an accurate picture of your hormone balance so you can take positive action to improve your health and wellbeing.
Here at Clearer Clinics, we have CQC-registered facilities across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire staffed by experienced healthcare professionals. Blood samples are sent to a certified UKAS laboratory and swift results include a doctor’s analysis. Book a hormone blood test appointment today.