A hormone Profile is a series of tests designed to assess the hormone levels in women. The tests offered by Star Wellness not only evaluate a patient for hormone levels but also check a patient’s general health in order to provide comprehensive results on other internal abnormalities that could be causing symptoms related to a condition outside of menopause.
Who Needs a Hormone Profile?
Women who have experienced symptoms related to menopause, as well as those looking to discover the source of a chronic condition possibly linked to abnormal hormone levels or general health will most benefit from having their hormone levels checked. If there is a problem with the hormonal cycle, then it can lead to problems such as irregular periods, heavy periods, absent periods, PMS, or infertility. A hormone profile will provide enough information to your health care provider to determine a method of treatment. Hormone Therapy may be an option. Measures circulating amounts of essential hormones naturally found in women. Includes the following:
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: 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.
Finally…
If there are abnormalities in the hormone levels or an abnormal pattern of cyclical hormone levels, then we can recommend the best treatment option. Hormone therapy easily tames menopause symptoms and can protect your bones, heart, teeth and lowers risk of colon cancer and diabetes. We are here to help find the best option for you.
Contact us if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment!
