Wondering why and how to get a hormone test? Have you heard about it before but aren't sure what it is? You've come to the right place. This test can be very useful for detecting hormonal imbalances, especially if you're trying to get pregnant. Fertility issues, menstrual disorders, mood swings... Understanding your hormone levels helps you find appropriate solutions. In this article, we'll explain everything about hormone testing for women and men. Let's get started!
Hormonal assessment for women and men: definition
First of all, what are hormones? They are chemical substances produced by the endocrine glands, and which come from several organs:
- the base of the brain (where the pituitary gland and hypothalamus are located);
- both ovaries;
- the thyroid.
They travel through our body via the bloodstream, and help regulate certain vital processes such as:
- metabolism;
- homeostasis;
- growth;
- development;
- sexual function;
- reproduction;
- the sleep-wake cycle;
- and mood.
The hormonal assessment, or endocrine assessment, is therefore a biological examination which measures these hormone levels in your body.
Why carry out a hormonal assessment?
Hormone testing detects and diagnoses medical conditions that may affect your health. You may be eligible for this test if:
- You are having difficulty getting pregnant.
- You have menstrual cycle disorders.
- You are experiencing unexplained weight loss.
Hormonal assessment can thus identify certain diseases or conditions such as:
- thyroid disorders;
- infertility;
- menopause (early or not);
- andropause;
- polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) ;
- diabetes.
This clinical examination therefore allows future parents to confirm any absence of hormonal imbalance which could hinder the conception of their baby.
How is the hormonal balance examination carried out in women and men?
Rest assured: performing a hormonal assessment is quick and easy! For women, this test often involves a blood sample taken at the beginning of the follicular phase, between the 3rd and 4th day of menstruation. This is when certain female hormones or sex hormones can be accurately measured.
These samples are often taken in clinics, but can also be performed at home or in the hospital. You generally don't need to make an appointment to have your tests done. Simply go directly to the lab with your prescription. For some tests, however, you may need to fast or perform the test at specific times of the day.
Urine analysis, which is less common, is just as simple and painless. You will then receive the results within a few hours or days.
If you are interested in the topic of male fertility, check out our article: Until what age is a man fertile?
Interpretation of hormonal assessment results
Once your hormone test results are available, your general practitioner or specialist will interpret them. They will determine whether your hormone levels are normal or if there are any imbalances that need to be addressed.
An example of hormonal assessment in women
In women, a typical fertility assessment may include testing for:
- FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone);
- LH (luteinizing hormone);
- TSH (which stimulates the secretion of thyroid hormones);
- AMH (hormone that reflects ovarian reserve);
- estradiol;
- progesterone;
- prolactin.
These hormones are important for regulating the menstrual cycle and female fertility. The assessment therefore allows for the detection of possible ovulatory imbalance. An abnormality may indicate early menopause or low ovarian reserve.
In addition to these blood tests, the woman may also be prescribed an ultrasound examination, which allows the antral follicles to be counted and the ovarian reserve to be assessed.
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An example of hormonal balance in men
Men are first referred for a spermiological assessment, particularly in the context of assisted reproduction. Depending on the results, they may be prescribed hormonal dosages for:
- testosterone (the male sex hormone);
- FSH;
- LH;
- and sometimes prolactin.
Abnormal FSH levels may indicate a problem with the sexual organs. Excessive prolactin levels may also be linked to sexual dysfunction or decreased libido. These results help identify hormonal imbalances, and therefore possible male infertility.
As you can see, hormonal assessment is still very useful for diagnosing possible hormonal imbalances in both men and women. This is therefore an opportunity for both future parents to take stock of their situation before trying for a baby!
