
Fertility Hormone Testing: Understanding Blood Test Results
Fertility Hormone Testing: Questions & Answers
Do I need to fast before I have my blood test?
Food does not usually affect your blood tests for hormonal studies, so it’s okay to eat. However, you may be told to fast before having a prolactin blood test. Be sure to speak to your nurse if you are unsure about eating before these tests.
Do these blood tests have to be done on certain days of my menstrual cycle?
Yes. Your hormone levels change throughout your cycle and must be measured at specific times to diagnose an imbalance. Your doctor or nurse will tell you exactly when to complete each test.
What is the normal level for each hormone?
The “normal” levels vary by laboratory, so you must discuss these values and your results with your doctor or nurse.
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) levels
- Good levels = >1.2ng/mL
- Poor levels = <0.5 ng/mL
- Follical Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels
- Good levels = <10 mlU/mL
- Poor levels = > 20mlU/mL
- Antral Follicle Count levels
- Good levels = >10
- Poor levels = <8
When will I get the results of the blood test?
Some test results are available on the same day; others may take up to one week.
Hormonal Imbalance: Causes and Symptoms
Hormonal imbalances can significantly impact your ability to conceive, but the symptoms are not always obvious.
Common signs of a hormonal imbalance that may affect fertility include
- irregular menstrual cycles
- heavy or light periods
- unexplained weight changes
- acne
- mood swings
Conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and elevated prolactin levels are common causes of hormonal irregularities. Identifying these issues early through comprehensive hormonal testing can provide critical insights into the root causes of infertility and guide effective treatment plans.
Lifestyle factors can also influence your hormone levels. Stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, and certain medications may disrupt your body’s natural hormonal rhythms.
Working with your doctor to identify potential triggers or underlying health conditions is essential for restoring balance and improving your chances of conception.
Lifestyle Tips for Balancing Hormones and Boosting Fertility
While medical treatments are often necessary to address significant hormonal imbalances, simple lifestyle changes can support overall hormonal health.
A balanced diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and lean protein can help regulate hormones like insulin and estrogen. Regular exercise, such as yoga or light cardio, can also improve circulation and reduce stress, which are key factors in hormonal regulation.
Managing stress is especially important, as high cortisol levels can interfere with ovulation and reproductive health.
Consider mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to help maintain a calm and balanced state. If you’re preparing for fertility testing, speak with your doctor about the best steps to optimize your hormone levels naturally and understand how your unique biology might affect your treatment options.