Female Hormones Check 1

This check measures a broad set of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and women's hormonal health. Rather than focusing on fertility, it is designed to help make sense of hormonal symptoms such as irregular or absent periods, mood changes, low energy, changes in libido, acne or excess hair, and other signs of hormonal imbalance. By looking at several hormones together, it helps build a clearer picture of what may be behind how you are feeling.

Cycle and reproductive hormones

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH): work together to control the menstrual cycle and ovulation. The pattern between them can help identify conditions such as PCOS and assess where you are in your cycle or menopause transition
• Oestradiol (E2): the main form of oestrogen, central to the menstrual cycle and to many aspects of women's health
• Progesterone (P4): produced after ovulation, it helps assess ovulation and cycle phase when measured at the right time

Androgens and binding proteins

• Testosterone: although present in smaller amounts in women, raised levels can contribute to symptoms such as acne, excess hair, and irregular periods
• Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG): a protein that binds testosterone, used together with testosterone to work out how much is actually active in the body, which is particularly useful in investigating PCOS-type symptoms

Thyroid

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): checks thyroid function, as both an underactive and overactive thyroid commonly disrupt the menstrual cycle, mood, energy, and weight

An important note on timing

Several of these hormones, particularly FSH, LH, oestradiol, and progesterone, change considerably across the menstrual cycle, so the timing of your test matters. They are usually measured in the early part of the cycle, with progesterone measured later to assess ovulation. Testosterone is best measured in the morning, when levels are highest. If you are going through perimenopause, hormone levels can fluctuate a great deal, so results are best understood alongside your symptoms. Please follow any timing guidance provided so your results are as reliable as possible.

Why it matters

Hormonal imbalances are common and can affect your periods, mood, energy, skin, and overall wellbeing. This check helps identify hormonal factors that may be contributing to your symptoms, supporting a clearer understanding of your health. As results depend on timing and are best interpreted together, any findings are best discussed with your GP, who can consider them alongside your symptoms and advise on next steps.