1. FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone):

• What it is: FSH is produced by the pituitary gland and is essential for the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which contain eggs.
• Relevance: High levels of FSH can indicate decreased ovarian reserve or premature ovarian failure, while low levels may suggest hypothalamic or pituitary dysfunction. FSH levels are measured on specific days of the menstrual cycle to evaluate ovarian function.

2. LH (Luteinizing Hormone):

• What it is: LH is also produced by the pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle. It triggers ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary).
• Relevance: The LH surge is a key signal for ovulation. Abnormal levels can indicate polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian dysfunction, or pituitary disorders. The FSH to LH ratio is also assessed for diagnosing ovulatory dysfunction.

3. Prolactin:

• What it is: Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that is responsible for milk production after childbirth.
• Relevance: Elevated prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) can interfere with ovulation and menstrual cycles, causing infertility. It may be related to pituitary tumors, stress, or medications.

4. FT3, FT4, TSH (Thyroid Hormones):

• What it is: These are thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and energy levels.
  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates thyroid function.
  • FT3 (Free Triiodothyronine) and FT4 (Free Thyroxine) are the active thyroid hormones that regulate various body functions.
• Relevance: Imbalances in thyroid hormones can disrupt menstrual cycles and cause infertility. Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) are both linked to ovulatory dysfunction.

5. Estradiol:Fertility Profile (FEMALE)

• What it is: Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a hormone primarily produced by the ovaries. It plays a critical role in regulating the menstrual cycle and promoting the growth of eggs in the ovaries.
• Relevance: Low estradiol levels can indicate poor ovarian reserve or ovarian dysfunction, while high levels can indicate PCOS or estrogen dominance. Estradiol levels vary during the menstrual cycle and are typically measured in the follicular phase (early cycle) to assess ovarian function.

6. Progesterone:

• What it is: Progesterone is a hormone produced by the corpus luteum (the follicle left behind after ovulation) that prepares the uterus for pregnancy.
• Relevance: Low progesterone levels can indicate anovulation (lack of ovulation) or luteal phase defects, which can lead to miscarriage or infertility. A progesterone test is often done during the second half of the menstrual cycle to confirm ovulation and assess the ability to sustain a pregnancy.

7. Testosterone (Total):

• What it is: Testosterone is an androgen (male hormone) that is produced in smaller amounts in females by the ovaries and adrenal glands.
• Relevance: Elevated testosterone levels in women can indicate PCOS, ovarian tumors, or adrenal dysfunction. High levels of testosterone may cause male-pattern hair growth, acne, and irregular periods.

8. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG):

• What it is: SHBG is a protein that binds to sex hormones like testosterone and estradiol, regulating their availability and activity in the body.
• Relevance: Low levels of SHBG can lead to increased levels of free testosterone, which may contribute to symptoms like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and acne. SHBG is often tested in conjunction with testosterone to better understand hormonal balance and conditions like PCOS.