Female Fertility Hormone Testing
1. What Does Female Fertility Hormone Test Measure?
This test looks at five key reproductive hormones:
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): Stimulates egg growth in the ovaries. High FSH can suggest reduced ovarian reserve.
LH (Luteinising Hormone): Triggers ovulation (egg release). Imbalances may affect timing.
Estradiol (E2): A form of oestrogen that prepares the uterine lining. Too high or too low can disrupt cycles.
Prolactin: Supports milk production. High levels outside pregnancy can interfere with ovulation and menstrual cycles.
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Indicates ovarian reserve (how many eggs remain). Useful for planning but not a guarantee of fertility.
2. How to Prepare for the Test
Test FSH, LH, Estradiol and Prolactin on Day 3 of your cycle (Day 1 = first full day of bleeding).
AMH can be tested on any day of the cycle.
Usually, fasting is not required.
Let your GP know if you are taking the pill, HRT, or fertility medication as these can affect results.
3. What Do the Results Mean?
Normal results usually mean your hormone balance is healthy.
High FSH or low AMH may suggest fewer eggs remaining.
Irregular LH or Estradiol can disrupt ovulation.
High Prolactin can cause missed or irregular periods.
One test does not diagnose infertility. It’s one part of the bigger fertility picture.
4. Differences Between Testing Options
Home Test Kits:
These are finger-prick samples you post to a certified lab. They are convenient, private, and results are doctor-reviewed. The sample size is smaller, and you may not get in-person support.
GP Blood Tests:
Taken in your local GP surgery and sent to HSE or private labs. They can check a wider range of health markers and may be covered by medical card or insurance. Waiting times can be longer, and you may need referral for specialist care.
Fertility Clinics:
Full bloods taken in a clinic, usually linked to IVF or fertility treatment. These are the most comprehensive tests, interpreted by specialists, and tailored to your treatment. They are also the most expensive and usually only done if you are already in the fertility pathway.
5. Next Steps After Results
If results are normal: keep tracking your cycles, maintain healthy lifestyle habits, and consider retesting yearly if delaying pregnancy.
If results are borderline or abnormal: arrange a consultation with your GP, fertility specialist, or holistic practitioner.
If preparing for IVF or IUI: your clinic will use results to guide your treatment protocol.
6. Limitations of Hormone Testing
Results are a snapshot in time, not a complete diagnosis.
Fertility also depends on egg quality, sperm health, and uterine health, which these tests don’t measure.
Results should always be combined with your medical history and lifestyle factors.
Summary
Hormone testing can give you valuable insight into your fertility and cycle health. Home kits are a good starting point, GP bloods provide broader health information, and fertility clinics offer the most detailed testing if you are moving toward treatment.
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