Hormones Women

Female reproductive hormones fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, and their levels at specific cycle phases can be informative. Changes in hormonal balance may be associated with irregular cycles, mood shifts, or other symptoms. Measuring multiple hormones together provides context that a single marker cannot, as these hormones work in interplay.

This test may be relevant for:

• Women who want an overview of their hormonal balance
• Those experiencing irregular or absent periods
• Anyone with symptoms that could be related to hormonal changes, such as mood shifts, skin changes, or cycle irregularities
• Women who want to understand their cycle-related hormone levels in more detail

This panel includes five hormonal markers:

• FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): stimulates follicle growth in the ovaries; levels vary throughout the cycle
• LH (Luteinising Hormone): triggers ovulation; the LH-to-FSH ratio can provide additional context
• Estradiol (E2): the primary form of estrogen, involved in follicle development and uterine lining growth
• Progesterone: rises after ovulation; levels in the second half of the cycle can suggest whether ovulation has occurred
• Prolactin: produced by the pituitary gland; elevated levels may be associated with cycle irregularities

The results depend on when in the cycle the sample is taken. FSH, LH, and estradiol measured in the early follicular phase (cycle days 2 to 5) can reflect baseline hormonal activity. Progesterone measured around day 21 can suggest whether ovulation has likely occurred. Prolactin levels that are consistently elevated may warrant further investigation.

These hormones are interconnected, so the pattern across all five markers is often more informative than any single value. A healthcare provider can help interpret the results in the context of your cycle and symptoms.

This test uses a blood sample collected at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). With over 750 partner locations across the Netherlands, you can choose a location that suits you. A trained phlebotomist performs the blood draw, and results are typically available within a few working days.

This test may be useful when:

• You experience irregular, heavy, or absent periods
• You want to understand your hormonal profile in relation to your cycle
• You have symptoms such as acne, mood changes, or fatigue that could be related to hormonal balance
• You want baseline hormone levels for future reference

Each marker is displayed with your value and the reference range for the relevant cycle phase. Because hormone levels change significantly throughout the cycle, knowing which cycle day the sample was taken is important for accurate interpretation.

Your report provides phase-specific explanations. We recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider, who can relate them to your specific symptoms and cycle history.

Timing is the most relevant preparation for this test. For FSH, LH, and Estradiol, testing on cycle day 2 to 5 is recommended (day 1 is the first day of your period). For Progesterone, testing around cycle day 21 provides the most informative result. If your cycle is irregular, the sample can still be taken; note the cycle day for your healthcare provider.

Your results are typically available within a few working days. The report includes your values with cycle-phase reference ranges and plain-language explanations. If any value falls outside the expected range for the relevant phase, this is highlighted. We recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider for personalised interpretation.