HOW TO GET A HORMONE BLOOD TEST

Hormones are chemical messengers that control many essential functions in your body, including metabolism, mood, fertility, and energy levels. When these hormones become unbalanced, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms that may affect how you feel day to day.

A hormone blood test can help identify whether an imbalance is contributing to your symptoms. It’s a simple way to get a clearer picture of your health and guide next steps if further medical advice or treatment is needed.

A female hormone blood test with One Day Tests offers a quick and accurate way to check your hormone levels, either at home or in one of our nationwide clinics. Results are available within 24 to 48 hours and are laboratory-reviewed for clinical accuracy.

Hormones influence nearly every system in your body. They regulate mood, energy, reproductive health, and metabolism. When they become unbalanced, even slightly, symptoms can appear in different ways.

You may consider a hormone blood test if you experience:

• Fatigue or low energy
  
  

• Irregular or missed periods
  
  

• Hot flushes or night sweats
  
  

• Weight gain or unexplained changes in appetite
  
  

• Hair thinning or skin changes
  
  

• Low mood or anxiety
  
  

• Fertility difficulties or low libido
  
  

These symptoms can be linked to hormonal changes caused by factors such as stress, menopause, thyroid disorders, or conditions like PCOS. Testing helps identify whether hormone imbalance could be the underlying cause.

Hormone blood tests measure the levels of key hormones in your blood to assess how your endocrine system is functioning.

Typical biomarkers include:

• Oestrogen (Oestradiol) – regulates menstrual cycles, mood, and bone health.
  
  

• Progesterone – confirms ovulation and supports reproductive health.
  
  

• FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – stimulates egg development and helps assess ovarian reserve.
  
  

• LH (Luteinising Hormone) – triggers ovulation and works alongside FSH.
  
  

• Testosterone – supports muscle tone, mood, and libido in both men and women.
  
  

• Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4) – control metabolism and energy levels.
  
  

• Cortisol – the main stress hormone affecting recovery and sleep.
  
  

Testing these biomarkers provides a comprehensive overview of hormone balance and how it may be affecting your wellbeing.

In the UK, you can get a hormone blood test either through your GP on the NHS or with a private testing provider.

NHS testing:

Your GP can arrange hormone testing if you have symptoms that suggest a medical need. For example, your GP may order tests for fertility concerns, menopause, or thyroid issues. However, NHS tests are often limited to specific hormones and may require a referral, meaning results can take longer to receive.

Private testing:

Private providers like One Day Tests offer a faster and more comprehensive service. You can choose from a range of hormone panels and test at home or in a clinic without needing a referral. Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, giving you quick answers and peace of mind.

Private hormone testing offers several benefits:

• No waiting times or GP referral required

• Access to wider hormone panels

• Fast, accurate results from accredited laboratories

• Convenient home or in-clinic options
  

The process of getting a hormone blood test is straightforward.

1. Choose your test – Select the test that best suits your needs, whether you want to check reproductive, thyroid, or stress hormones.
   
   

2. Provide a sample – Collect a small blood sample at home using a finger-prick kit or visit a clinic for a venous blood draw.
   
   

3. Send your sample to the laboratory – Samples are processed in accredited UK laboratories to ensure accuracy.
   
   

4. Receive your results – Results are securely delivered online within 24 to 48 hours.
   
   

At One Day Tests, your results are displayed clearly through your personal health dashboard, allowing you to see how your levels compare to normal ranges and track any changes over time.

The timing of your test depends on what you are measuring and whether you have a regular menstrual cycle.

For women with regular cycles:

• Test between days 2 and 5 of your cycle for baseline hormone levels such as FSH, LH, and oestrogen.
  
  

• Test around day 21 for progesterone to confirm ovulation.
  
  

If your cycle is irregular or you are postmenopausal, you can take the test at any time. For men and individuals testing for thyroid or cortisol levels, the test can also be done at any time of day, though morning samples are often preferred for consistency.

Preparing properly for your hormone test helps ensure reliable results.

• Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking hormonal medication, contraception, or hormone replacement therapy.
  
  

• Avoid heavy exercise and alcohol for 24 hours before your test.
  
  

• Stay hydrated and relaxed before taking your sample.
  
  

• Fasting is not required for most hormone tests.
  
  

If you are taking a home test, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and post your sample as soon as possible after collection.

Your test results will show the levels of each hormone and how they compare to the normal reference ranges. Hormone levels naturally vary depending on age, gender, and cycle phase, so interpretation must be made in context.

• Low oestrogen or progesterone may be linked to fatigue, irregular periods, or menopause.
  
  

• High testosterone may indicate PCOS or other hormonal imbalance.
  
  

• Elevated cortisol can be associated with stress or adrenal overactivity.
  
  

• Abnormal thyroid hormones may point to thyroid dysfunction.
  
  

If your results are outside the expected range, you can share them with your GP or a specialist for further interpretation and support.

Regular hormone testing can also be useful for tracking changes over time, particularly if you are managing a condition or adjusting lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, or stress levels.