Hormones Women

Reproductive hormones work together in a coordinated cycle. When one or more hormones are out of balance, it can affect menstrual regularity, ovulation, mood, and overall wellbeing. This panel measures five hormones that are commonly assessed when evaluating female reproductive health.

This test may be relevant for women who:

• Experience irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Want to understand their hormonal profile
• Are experiencing symptoms such as mood changes, changes in libido, or cycle-related issues
• Want data to discuss reproductive health with their healthcare provider

This panel measures five hormones:

• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): stimulates follicle development in the ovaries
• LH (Luteinizing Hormone): triggers ovulation and supports the luteal phase
• Estradiol (E2): the primary estrogen, involved in cycle regulation and uterine lining growth
• Progesterone: rises after ovulation; supports the luteal phase and early pregnancy
• Prolactin: involved in breast tissue development; elevated levels may affect menstrual regularity and ovulation

The balance between these hormones can provide insight into how the menstrual cycle is functioning. FSH and LH reflect the communication between the brain and the ovaries. Estradiol and progesterone reflect the ovarian response. Elevated prolactin may be associated with cycle disruption. The timing of the test within the cycle is relevant to interpretation, as hormone levels change throughout the month.

The test requires a blood draw at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). There are over 750 locations across the Netherlands. Timing within the menstrual cycle is relevant for this test, so scheduling around the correct cycle day is advised.

This test may be considered when:

• You experience irregular, heavy, or absent periods
• You want to assess hormonal balance across multiple reproductive hormones
• You are trying to understand your cycle better
• A healthcare provider has suggested checking reproductive hormones

Each hormone is shown with your value and the reference range for the relevant cycle phase. The reference ranges differ depending on cycle day, so timing is relevant. Results that fall outside the expected range for the cycle phase may warrant further discussion. These results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider who can consider them in the context of your symptoms and cycle history.

For FSH, LH, and Estradiol, blood should be drawn on cycle day 2 to 5. For Progesterone, the test is most informative on cycle day 21 (or 7 days after expected ovulation). Prolactin can be measured on any cycle day. If measuring all five in one draw, cycle day 2 to 5 is typically chosen, with the understanding that progesterone will be at its baseline. No fasting is required.

Your results are typically available within a few working days. Each hormone is shown with your value, the reference range for the relevant cycle phase, and an explanation. These results can be discussed with your healthcare provider to determine whether further evaluation may be appropriate.