Hormone balance is essential to good health for women of all ages.
What can and should you do about it, to ensure good health and balanced hormones? The hormone/menopause Profile of lab tests will help analyze your blood and answer these questions. The following will be tested:
Testosterone
Usually thought of as a “male” hormone, testosterone has several functions and is present in women. Low or unstable levels of testosterone have been associated with a decreased sex drive (or libido), especially in menopausal or post-menopausal women. Low testosterone levels have also been linked to an increased incidence of coronary vascular disease and heart attacks in men.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Hormones produced by the pituitary gland which regulates the maturation and release of eggs from the ovaries, and to coordinate preparation of the uterine lining for fertilization and implantation. The normal blood concentrations of LH and FSH vary during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, and measurement of these hormones is useful in the diagnosis of infertility, menopause, and certain tumors.
Progesterone hormone that is also made by the adrenal glands in women, progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and the breasts for milk production. This test can be used to detect ovulation and to monitor patients on progesterone replacement therapy.
A hormone that is also made by the adrenal glands in women, progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and the breasts for milk production. This test can be used to detect ovulation and to monitor patients on progesterone replacement therapy.
DHEA Sulfate
A hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This test is used to evaluate the function of the adrenal glands. DHEA Sulfate is the major source of androgens (male hormones) in women. Excessive levels can cause virilism (male body characteristics) or hirsutism (excessive hair growth). Adrenal gland dysfunction can result in infertility, early menopause, and precocious puberty.
Estradiol
The most important of the estrogen hormones, estradiol performs many varied functions in females. It stimulates the proliferation of the uterine lining during the first half of the menstrual cycle. Measuring estradiol levels is useful in evaluating menstrual and fertility problems, as well as the menopausal state.
Don’t hesitate to seek treatment for symptoms that bother you, many effective treatments are available. Contact us to set up an appointment or have any questions.
