When hormones in a woman’s body begin to significantly impact her well-being and daily comfort, seeking help from a specialist becomes essential. A good decision is to visit an endocrinologist who will examine hormone levels on the path to a correct diagnosis and therapy. What exactly does an endocrinologist deal with? When is it advisable to conduct hormone tests and check the levels of prolactin, progesterone, or estradiol, which directly affect female fertility? Read our brief “patient’s guide” below.

What Does an Endocrinologist Deal With?

Endocrinology deals with the examination and treatment of various hormonal imbalances. Hormones are produced by the internal secretion gland and have a significant influence on the proper functioning of the body – both in women and men. In the case of women, a visit to a doctor and a series of tests are necessary upon observing hormonal imbalances and symptoms such as:

  • menstrual irregularities / irregular bleeding / reproductive system disorders – persisting in this state can lead to difficulties in conceiving or even infertility. A woman’s reproductive system is very delicate. Testing FSH levels allows for the diagnosis of pituitary diseases, among others.
  • painful menopause – women during menopause may experience various disturbing symptoms: chronic fatigue, excessive sweating, palpitations. Female hormones and hormonal balance are disturbed during this time. The functioning of the endocrine system is unnatural.
  • excessive body hair or hair loss,
  • decreased libido,
  • acne.

Hormonal testing conducted in a good laboratory allows for the diagnosis or exclusion of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, underactive or overactive thyroid, or other endocrinological disorders. Accurate diagnosis is the basis for healing.

Hormonal Imbalances and the First Endocrinologist Visit. How to Prepare?

First and foremost, there’s no need to be afraid of visits to an endocrinologist. The endocrinologist’s task is to thoroughly examine the patient, find the cause of the problem, and propose the most appropriate form of treatment, ideally suited to the patient’s overall health. Initially, the doctor conducts a detailed interview with the patient, inquiring about symptoms, diet, medications, supplements (the doses of individual medications are also important in both cases), and lifestyle. It’s advisable to bring medical documentation (results of previous urine/blood tests, hospital discharge summaries, etc.), which will facilitate diagnosis.

Hormone / Endocrinological Testing – What’s the Process Like?

The first step is the aforementioned interview with the patient. Then the doctor performs physical examinations, including observing the patient’s skin, assessing fat distribution, measuring blood pressure, evaluating pulse, and sometimes performing a thyroid ultrasound. Subsequently, the patient is directed to a sampling point to undergo necessary blood tests. Tests recommended by the doctor should be done on an empty stomach, and the results should be brought back to the attending doctor. Then, the doctor will propose therapy and adjust medications.

Hormonal Testing Package for Women – Which Ones to Perform?

Here is a list of tests that should be performed when experiencing specific symptoms or suspecting the onset of a particular disease.

Thyroid Issues / Hashimoto’s Disease

  • complete blood count
  • ferritin
  • TSH
  • FT4
  • ATG
  • ATPO
  • vitamin B12
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D

Obesity / Excessive Weight

  • TSH
  • FT4
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D

glucose-insulin curve

  • ALT
  • creatinine
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D

General Malaise / Concentration Problems / Chronic Fatigue

  • TSH
  • FT4
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D
  • glucose
  • insulin
  • HbA1C
  • cortisol
  • vitamin B12
  • magnesium
  • calcium
  • creatinine
  • complete blood count
  • iron
  • ferritin
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D

Acne / Hair Loss

  • complete blood count
  • TSH
  • FT4
  • iron
  • ferritin
  • prolactin – recommended on days 3-5 of the cycle
  • testosterone
  • SHBG
  • androstenedione
  • cortisol
  • 25-hydroxyvitamin D

Keep Your Hormones in Check – Don’t Delay Seeing a Specialist!

Experiencing worrying symptoms? Has your overall health deteriorated? Are you experiencing menstrual irregularities? Do not delay visiting a doctor. Quick action guarantees a proper diagnosis. Appropriately tailored treatment improves well-being, comfort in life, and restores female vitality and joy.