In clinical practice, if you want to understand gynecological endocrine and related reproductive diseases, it is essential to undergo six tests for sex hormones, as they can reflect the body's hormone levels and understand endocrine function. The six tests for sex hormones include many examination indicators, which can identify various diseases, but how to understand the test results? What does each inspection indicator represent? In this regard, the following text will discuss the key indicators of six sex hormone tests.
What are the six tests for sex hormones?
The hormone composition includes FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), PRL (prolactin), E2 (estradiol), P (progesterone), and T (testosterone). Each 'member' represents a different clinical significance.
Firstly, FSH is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, which plays an important role in the normal development and function of the gonads. It is beneficial for promoting normal ovulation and corpus luteum formation in women. Based on indicators, female ovarian function can be determined. If the examination results show FSH>10IU/L, it indicates that the body's ovarian reserve function is in a declining state. Once it>40IU/L, it indicates that ovarian function has failed.
Secondly, LH and FSH are both secreted by the pituitary gland and have similar functions, promoting follicular development and maturation as well as secreting estrogen. Changes in indicators can also be used to determine the ovarian health status of the body. If LH>2.5U/L, it may be related to polycystic ovary syndrome and can be used to assess female ovarian reserve function.
The function of PRL is to promote the normal development of female breasts and the secretion of breast milk. It is a polypeptide protein hormone. If the index value is found to be higher than the normal standard (≤ 25ng/ml), the normal ovulation of women is easily affected, which will indirectly inhibit ovarian function.
E2 is secreted by the ovaries and its function is to promote the development of female secondary sexual characteristics and the growth of the endometrium. If the value is low, it will indicate a decrease in ovarian reserve function in the body.
P is also secreted by the ovaries, with a small amount produced by adrenaline, which is beneficial for the transformation of the endometrium from the proliferative phase to the secretory phase. Used for the diagnosis of luteal insufficiency.
T is converted from androstenedione and secreted by the ovaries and adrenal cortex. Its function is to promote the development of female pubic hair, armpit hair, labia, and clitoris; Affects the normal metabolic function of the body and has a certain antagonistic effect on estrogen. If T growth is found to be within 2 times the normal level during examination, it is often considered to be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome.
2 Inspection precautions
Firstly, the inspection time, as the level of sex hormones may vary with time. Therefore, it is best to choose a suitable time for examination under the advice of a doctor. In clinical practice, it is recommended that women undergo fasting tests 3-5 days after their menstrual period for the best results. At the same time, as long as men do not engage in vigorous exercise, they can undergo examinations on an empty stomach at any time. It should be noted that it is not recommended to take sex hormone drugs within one month before the examination to avoid affecting hormone levels in the body. In addition, in order to keep hormone levels relatively stable, it is recommended to maintain sufficient sleep during the body examination, avoid staying up late, relax during the examination process, and be in a calm state.
In short, there are many diseases that can be diagnosed by the six tests of sex hormones, but it is not possible to diagnose diseases based on the increase of a single indicator. When we receive the report form, we should not panic due to abnormal data. We should consult a doctor, who will provide corresponding answers.