Hormonal Profile Test

A hormonal imbalance test measures the level of different hormones in your body. Hormones are chemical messengers released by your endocrine glands directly in your bloodstream. They are responsible for conducting various functions in your body ¹. 

An excess or low level of hormones in your body is termed a hormonal imbalance, which is tested through a hormonal imbalance test either by collecting samples of blood or urine. 

Learn everything about hormonal imbalance tests before you book lab test online. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.

What Does the Hormone Profile Test Measure? 

A hormonal imbalance test, also known as a hormonal profile test, measures the concentration of different hormones in your body. A hormone profile test is generally different for males and females owing to the different reproductive hormones in both. Typically, a hormonal profile test list includes checking your cortisol, thyroid, oestrogenic, testosterone, progesterone, insulin, and growth hormone levels in your body. 

Types of Hormone Tests

There are various kinds of hormone tests, typically different for males and females. Hormone blood tests for females can look at several key hormones ²: 

• Oestrogen - Oestrogen comprises three different hormones: estrone, which is released post-menopause; oestradiol, which is the main female hormone and released pre-menopause; and estriol, which increases during pregnancy. Testing for this hormone is critically important when checking for underlying issues regarding irregular periods or difficulty in conception. 
• Progesterone - This hormone helps in the regulation of menstruation and the development of the foetus. Hence, it should be a part of your hormone profile test list to check the risks of miscarriage, ovulation, and ectopic pregnancy. 
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) - FSH is crucial for the growth of eggs in the ovaries and is essential for reproductive health. If you experience difficulties in conception or stunted foetal growth, you must get a blood test for this hormonal imbalance to rule out chances of ovarian cysts, PCOS, or infertility. 
• Testosterone/DHEA - Though testosterone is predominantly tagged as a male sex hormone, it is also present in females and is produced in the ovary. Testosterone in females gets converted to oestradiol with the help of an enzyme called aromatase. DHEA, a hormone synthesised by the adrenal glands, serves as a building block for both oestrogenic and testosterone, contributing to sexual vitality and health.
• Thyroid hormones - The levels of a group of hormones determine thyroid function. This includes thyroxine, thyroid stimulating hormone, triiodothyronine, and thyroid peroxidase antibodies. A hormone panel test checking all these helps rule out various thyroid-related diseases and conditions. 
• Luteinizing hormone - Luteinizing hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, is essential for managing the menstrual cycle. A hormonal profile test should include testing this hormone to check for menstrual irregularity, infertility, or tracking your ovulation window. 

While some hormonal profile tests are common for both men and women, here are some of the most important blood tests for hormonal imbalance in men. 

• FSH: Just like females, FSH in males is important for reproductive health, particularly in stimulating sperm production. Hence, it should be included in the hormonal profile test list for males, as it helps in assessing their potency and libido. Since this hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland, it also helps in diagnosing any condition of the gland, apart from evaluating the man's fertility. 

• LH: Though this hormone is present in both males and females, its function is different in both sexes. The LH hormone stimulates the secretion of testosterone in males. Testing for this hormone helps in checking for the condition of the pituitary and gonads in males.

• Testosterone: Predominantly a male hormone, testosterone is essential for the development of male sexual characteristics, influencing libido, muscle mass, and sperm production. It plays a vital role in sperm production and overall sexual function.

Why Do Doctors Recommend Hormonal Imbalance Tests?

Doctors recommend hormonal imbalance tests to check the secretion of hormones by different glands in the body and evaluate the presence of any condition in your body. Hormonal imbalances can cause several diseases, and hence, it is crucial to check your body's hormonal balance through a hormone panel test. 

How To Prepare For Hormone Imbalance Test?

The steps below help you ensure that your hormone imbalance test provides the most accurate information about your health.

•  Medication guidelines: Tell your healthcare provider about all the drugs, supplements or herbal remedies you are taking, as some substances may affect test results. Follow any specific instructions regarding drug adjustment before testing.

•  Contact the doctor: Share your entire medical history with existing conditions or symptoms to help explain test results.

What Happens During Hormone Imbalance Testing?

A hormone imbalance test only takes a few minutes.

• As per the scheduled time of the blood test, a Lab Technician who usually takes blood samples will arrive.
• A thin needle will be used to draw blood from your arm’s vein.
• The needle might cause a mild pinch and some discomfort.
• The lab technician then fills a collection tube with blood and removes the needle from the skin.
• They place a small bandage on the arm

Please note: There might be slight pain or bruising at the spot of insertion, but most of the symptoms go away quickly.

Should you book blood test online to check your health condition or go to the nearest clinic and get it done by a medical professional?  Let's Find Out

Can I Take a Hormone Imbalance Test At Home?

Yes, the hormone imbalance Test can be taken at home. HealthcareOnTime's at-home lab testing service, in association with thyrocare, provides a convenient and efficient way to get blood testing done from the comfort of your own home without the need for a doctor's visit or a trip to a lab. It's important to note that it's always a good idea to consult with an expert healthcare provider about any queries you may have about your test results.

How Much Does Hormone Imbalance Test Cost?

The hormone imbalance test price varies significantly depending on many factors:

• Location: The hormone imbalance test prices in India may vary depending on the city or the region in which the test is conducted. For example, in Bangalore or Mumbai, it might be expensive as compared to small towns.  
• Type of facility centres: The hormone imbalance test charge also varies between private hospitals, government hospitals, and diagnostic centres. The cost is lower in government hospitals than in private ones.
• Healthcare centres: Diagnostic centres, laboratories and hospitals may have different hormone imbalance test prices. It depends upon the benefits and reputation of the healthcare centre. 
• Insurance Coverage: Individuals with health insurance can cover partial or all costs depending on their policy coverage and network providers.
• Additional services: Additional services such as home sample collection, express test results, or additional charges for special management may be paid, which contributes to the overall hormone imbalance test price.

Generally, the hormone imbalance test cost in India ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 1000. 

By opting for HealthcareOnTime lab test at-home facilities. You can access a male hormone test at the cost of INR 390 and a female hormone test at the cost of INR 700.

You received your hormonal imbalance test results but still need help determining if they fall under the normal range. Read this section to know if your results range between the hormonal imbalance test and the normal range.

What Does Hormonal Imbalance Test Results Mean?

A hormone imbalance test can indicate various abnormalities in the secretion of various hormones in your body. Here's what blood test for hormonal imbalance indicates: 

• For women, low oestrogen levels can mean PCOS, low body fat, or reduced function of the pituitary gland. However, higher levels of oestrogen detected in a hormone profile test can indicate obesity, heavy menstrual bleeding, and lack of sexual activity. 
• If your progesterone levels are lower than the normal range during pregnancy, it can indicate a chance of miscarriage or premature labour. While higher levels of progesterone are not a medical issue, prolonged elevation may pose a risk of breast cancer.
• High FSH levels detected in a test for hormonal imbalance can indicate lower fertility and reduced pituitary function in both males and females. 
• Testosterone levels have different indications in males and females. While high testosterone in females can indicate cancer in the adrenal glands, it also indicates higher libido in males. On the other hand, lower testosterone levels in females can indicate perimenopause, while in males, it can signify infertility.

What is the Normal Range for the Hormone Imbalance Test? 

The normal ranges for various hormones are as follows: 

Oestrogen test normal range ³

Progesterone test normal range

FSH normal range

TSH normal range

Luteinizing hormone normal range

Testosterone normal range in males and females ⁶

DHEA Levels

What Medical Conditions Lead to Hormonal Imbalance?

There are several factors that lead to hormonal imbalance. Here are some of them ⁷: 

• Thyroid Disorders: Conditions like hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can disrupt the balance of thyroid hormones in the body.

• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Conditions such as Cushing's syndrome (excess cortisol production) or Addison's disease (insufficient cortisol production) can lead to hormonal imbalances due to dysfunction in the adrenal glands.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A lot of women around the world face the issue of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in their reproductive year.  It is a hormonal disorder characterised by enlarged ovaries with small cysts along their outer edges.

• Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes impact hormone levels, specifically insulin, causing imbalances in blood sugar and other hormones. Type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease, results in minimal or no insulin production by the pancreas, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Insulin, crucial for controlling blood sugar, when deficient, triggers symptoms like frequent urination, intense thirst, fatigue, and weight loss.

• Tumours: Certain tumours, such as those in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands, can produce excess hormones, leading to hormonal imbalances.

• Obesity: Increased body fat can disrupt hormone balance, notably impacting insulin and leptin levels. This disruption can, in turn, lead to additional weight gain and metabolic issues.

• Menopause: The transition to menopause in women is characterised by hormonal changes, particularly a decline in oestrogen levels. When that happens, it can lead to imbalances and associated symptoms.

• Chronic stress: Prolonged stress can disrupt the production of cortisol and other hormones, leading to imbalances and various health issues.

• Malnutrition: Severe malnutrition can lead to hormonal imbalances due to inadequate intake of nutrients necessary for hormone production. For example, inadequate protein intake can affect the production of thyroid hormones and sex hormones.

Hormonal imbalances can present many unique challenges and often require tailored treatment strategies based on the specific hormones involved and their root causes. Typically, treatment combines medical interventions with lifestyle modifications to restore balance and relieve symptoms.

Lifestyle adjustments are key to addressing hormonal imbalances. These include following a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. On top of that, reducing the intake of processed foods and sugars also proves beneficial. Regular exercise is also vital for maintaining hormonal equilibrium and overall health. Additionally, managing stress through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises is beneficial, as prolonged stress can lead to hormonal disruptions.

Furthermore, adequate sleep is essential for hormone regulation, so it's important to follow a consistent sleep schedule and prioritise quality sleep.