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Hormones

PTH levels: what parathyroid hormone says about your calcium

Parathyroid hormone regulates calcium, which is especially important for women's bone health across all life stages. Monitoring PTH can provide insight into bone density maintenance, particularly during and after menopause.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

Female
pmol/l
Low 1.6 Normal 6.9 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of intact parathyroid hormone in your blood. PTH is produced by the parathyroid glands and regulates calcium levels by influencing calcium absorption in the gut, reabsorption in the kidneys, and release from bones.

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): why this value matters

For women, calcium metabolism is closely linked to bone health, which can be affected by hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. PTH monitoring supports proactive bone health management.

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): how to prepare

  1. Pause biotin

    Required

    Do you take a supplement with biotin (vitamin B8, common in hair, skin and nail supplements)? Stop it 72 hours before the draw. Biotin interferes with the measurement of these values.

  • Water is always fine. Drink as usual beforehand, it makes the draw easier.
  • Take your usual medication, unless your own doctor told you otherwise.

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you have abnormal calcium levels, symptoms of bone loss, kidney stones, or suspected parathyroid dysfunction. Your healthcare provider may also suggest testing alongside calcium and vitamin D assessments.

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people with low PTH may experience muscle cramps, tingling in the fingers or around the mouth, fatigue, or dry skin. Low PTH can lead to elevated phosphorus and low calcium levels.

High Levels

Elevated PTH may be associated with bone pain, kidney stones, excessive urination, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, and weakness. High levels could suggest hyperparathyroidism or vitamin D deficiency.

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): lifestyle and this value

Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet and safe sun exposure may support healthy PTH regulation. Weight-bearing exercise can benefit bone health. Regular monitoring of calcium and vitamin D alongside PTH is often recommended.

Parathyroid Hormone (intact): frequently asked questions

What is the difference between PTH and calcium tests?

Calcium tests measure the mineral level in your blood, while PTH measures the hormone that regulates calcium. Testing both together helps determine whether calcium imbalances are caused by parathyroid issues.

Can vitamin D deficiency affect PTH levels?

Yes, low vitamin D can cause PTH to rise as the body tries to maintain calcium levels. This is called secondary hyperparathyroidism and may improve with vitamin D supplementation.

What are the parathyroid glands?

The parathyroid glands are four small glands located behind the thyroid in the neck. They produce PTH, which is essential for regulating calcium and bone metabolism.

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Medical policy
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