Hormones are chemical messengers that help regulate bodily functions and maintain general health. In women, hormones – primarily estrogen and progesterone – also influence body weight, hair growth, and bone and muscle growth. Although these hormones fluctuate through different stages of life, long-term imbalances can cause a range of symptoms and health effects.
Hormone blood tests can identify hormone levels that reveal important health information, such as fertility problems or the start of menopause. These tests can also help diagnose certain medical conditions.
Blood tests are often used to identify several female hormones, including:
- Estrogen
- Progesterone
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Testosterone/DHEA