Tests
HORMONE TESTING
HORMONE TESTING
Hormonal fluctuations during any phase of the menstrual cycle may indicate health conditions such as premature menopause, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and hyperprolactinemia, which can impair ovulation and even make pregnancy impossible. Hormonal evaluation will indicate whether or not a disorder is present and helps the specialist physician determine the best course of treatment.
Hormonal evaluation in men is not always performed routinely. However, it is important to know that hormonal dysfunctions involving hormones such as testosterone and prolactin may cause problems such as low sperm production and reduced sexual desire.
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Evaluation for Women and People with a Uterus
Due to the influence of hormones on the menstrual cycle, there are several tests that can help identify fertility problems and support appropriate treatment.
● FSH, Estradiol, LH, Progesterone: these are the main hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and ovarian reserve;
● Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): this hormone is used to estimate ovarian reserve; the higher the level, the greater the reserve, meaning a higher number of available eggs;
● Prolactin, TSH, and Free T4: if abnormal, these may interfere with ovulation and a potential pregnancy.
Measuring these hormones allows the evaluation of follicular reserve and, consequently, helps predict whether the ovaries will respond well to ovarian stimulation hormones during fertility treatment. If the follicular reserve is good, the chances of retrieving eggs are higher. If the reserve is low, the chances of obtaining eggs are lower, and a higher dose of hormones will be required for ovarian stimulation.
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Sperm or Semen Evaluation
A hormonal evaluation should be performed when there are abnormalities in sperm production or in patients with clinical signs of hormonal deficiency. The blood test will measure hormone levels directly related to sperm production, such as:
● FSH: high levels indicate changes that impair sperm production, while low levels suggest insufficient stimulation for sperm production;
● LH: the hormone responsible for testosterone production. Very high or very low levels may indicate the cause of testosterone deficiency;
● Testosterone: Testosterone is the main hormone that directly affects sperm production and sexual desire. However, direct testosterone replacement is not the recommended treatment in these cases and may even further impair fertility.
