What is the test?
Fertility hormone tests are blood tests that measure reproductive hormones such as FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, prolactin and thyroid hormones — and testosterone, FSH and LH in men.
What does it assess?
Whether ovulation is occurring, how the ovaries and pituitary gland are communicating, and whether conditions such as thyroid disorders or raised prolactin may be affecting fertility.
Who might need it?
People with irregular or absent periods, suspected ovulation problems, an abnormal semen analysis, or as part of a fertility assessment.
When is it performed?
Timing matters: FSH, LH and estradiol are often checked early in the cycle (days 2–5); progesterone around 7 days before an expected period to confirm ovulation. Thyroid and prolactin can usually be checked any time.
How is the test carried out?
A standard blood sample from the arm.
How should I prepare?
Note the first day of your last period so the test can be timed correctly. Your clinic will tell you if fasting or a morning sample is needed.
What can the results mean?
Results are interpreted against cycle day and lab ranges. For example, a raised mid-luteal progesterone suggests ovulation has occurred; high prolactin may disrupt ovulation.
What are its limitations?
Hormones fluctuate, so one result is a snapshot. Basal FSH alone is a less reliable ovarian reserve marker than AMH or AFC.
Is it routinely recommended?
Selected hormone tests are established parts of fertility assessment; not everyone needs every hormone tested.
What happens next?
Abnormal results may be repeated or lead to further tests, medication to support ovulation, or specialist referral.
Frequently asked questions
What if my periods are irregular?
Progesterone timing is harder; your clinician may repeat the test or use other methods to confirm ovulation.