The Female Fertility Hormone Panel is a diagnostic blood test typically performed on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle to provide a snapshot of baseline reproductive function.
What hormones are tested for female fertility?
This panel includes Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Prolactin, and Estradiol. FSH serves as the primary signal to mature a follicle, with high levels often suggesting a diminished ovarian reserve. LH is the chemical trigger for ovulation, and an abnormal ratio between LH and FSH can be a clinical marker for conditions like PCOS. Prolactin ensures that hormonal "signal interference" from the brain isn't preventing regular cycles. Estradiol (E2) helps specialists interpret FSH results accurately by confirming the ovaries are in a resting state. Together, these tests provide a comprehensive view of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian axis.