Sex hormones

 

Oestradiol

This test can be used to measure or monitor oestrogen levels if you are a woman who has unexplained abnormal menstrual cycles, abnormal or heavy bleeding, infertility, symptoms of menopause, or any other hormonal alterations; also used to test for the presence of female-like characteristics in males.
Oestradiol is also sometimes used to monitor menopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Taking oestrogen and progesterone supplements can affect results.

Progesterone

This test can be used to help determine the cause of infertility, track ovulation, help diagnose an ectopic or failing pregnancy, monitor the health of a pregnancy, and help diagnose the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Interpretation of progesterone test results requires knowledge of where a woman is in her menstrual cycle.

Taking oestrogen and progesterone supplements can affect results.

DHEA-s

DHEAS, testosterone, and several other androgens are used to evaluate adrenal function and to distinguish between androgen secreting adrenal conditions from those that originate in the ovary or testes.

Concentrations of DHEAS are often measured, along with other hormones such as FSH, LH, prolactin, estrogen, and testosterone, to help diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and to help rule out other causes of infertility, amenorrhea, and hirsutism.

DHEAS concentrations peak after puberty, and then, like other male and female hormones, the levels tend to decline with age.