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WHAT IS A FEMALE HORMONE BLOOD TEST UK?

WHAT IS A FEMALE HORMONE BLOOD TEST UK?

THE AUTHOR: DR. ADAM STATEN

THE AUTHOR: DR. ADAM STATEN

Dr Adam Staten is a NHS GP and part of the Clinical Governance team here at One Day Tests. Dr. Staten trained at Cambridge University and King's College London. He has served as a Medical Officer in the British Army. Dr. Staten is a firm believer in educating people about common health problems to empower them to understand and manage their own health.

Hormones play a central role in women’s health. They regulate everything from energy levels and mood to fertility and metabolism. When hormone levels fluctuate too much or fall out of balance, it can affect your menstrual cycle, skin, and overall wellbeing.


A female hormone blood test measures key reproductive hormones to give a clearer picture of your body’s natural rhythm. It can help identify the cause of irregular periods, fertility problems, or symptoms of hormonal imbalance such as tiredness, mood changes, or weight gain.


At One Day Tests, you can easily check your hormone levels through a simple home testing kit or by visiting one of our UK clinics. Results are laboratory-reviewed and typically ready within 24 to 48 hours.

UNDERSTANDING FEMALE HORMONES AND THEIR ROLE IN HEALTH

Female hormones control reproductive health and influence how the body functions day to day. The main hormones tested in women include:


  • Oestrogen, which supports bone strength, menstrual cycle regulation, and mood balance.

  • Progesterone, which prepares the uterus for pregnancy and maintains menstrual regularity.

  • Luteinising Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), which trigger ovulation and help control the menstrual cycle.

  • Prolactin, which supports breast tissue development and milk production.


  • Testosterone, which helps maintain muscle strength, mood, and libido.


Hormones rise and fall naturally throughout a woman’s cycle. However, persistent imbalance can cause symptoms that impact fertility, skin health, and metabolism. A hormone blood test helps identify whether these fluctuations are within the expected range.

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WHY YOU MIGHT NEED A FEMALE HORMONE BLOOD TEST

There are many reasons why you might consider hormone testing. Some women test as part of fertility planning, while others want to understand changes related to menopause or irregular cycles.


You may benefit from a female hormone blood test if you experience:


  • Irregular or absent periods

  • Difficulty conceiving

  • Hot flushes or night sweats

  • Acne or changes in skin texture

  • Unexplained tiredness or mood swings

  • Weight changes or low libido

Testing your hormone levels provides a clearer understanding of what is happening inside your body and whether further medical support may be helpful.

WHAT A FEMALE HORMONE BLOOD TEST MEASURES

A female hormone blood test looks at the main hormones that control fertility, menstrual function, and overall reproductive health. The biomarkers usually include:


  • Oestradiol (Oestrogen) – the primary female hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle.

  • Progesterone – helps confirm ovulation and supports the uterus for pregnancy.

  • LH (Luteinising Hormone) – stimulates ovulation in women and hormone production in men.

  • FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) – controls egg development in the ovaries.

  • Prolactin – can affect ovulation and is often tested if periods are absent.

  • Testosterone and SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) – measure androgen balance and support the diagnosis of conditions such as PCOS.

  • Free Androgen Index (FAI) – calculates the amount of active testosterone in the blood.

Together, these markers provide a comprehensive view of hormonal health and fertility potential.

WHEN TO TAKE A FEMALE HORMONE BLOOD TEST

The timing of your test can make a difference to your results. For the most accurate readings, it is generally recommended to take the test on days 2 to 5 of your menstrual cycle, when hormone levels are at their baseline.


If your periods are irregular or absent, you can take the test at any time, but interpretation may depend on your personal cycle history. Postmenopausal women can also take the test at any time since hormone levels remain relatively stable.

INTERPRETING YOUR RESULTS AND WHAT THEY MEAN

Your results will show the levels of each hormone in your blood and how they compare with the typical reference ranges for your age and menstrual stage.


  • High FSH or LH levels may indicate reduced ovarian reserve or early menopause.

  • Low oestrogen or progesterone may explain irregular periods, low mood, or fatigue.

  • Elevated testosterone or FAI could point to conditions such as PCOS.

Each hormone tells a part of the story. Reviewing results with your GP or specialist can help determine if treatment, lifestyle adjustments, or further testing are needed.

HOW TO GET TESTED IN THE UK

Checking your hormone levels privately in the UK is simple with One Day Tests. You can choose a home testing kit or visit a local clinic.


  1. Order your test – Select the Female Hormone Blood Test from our website at One Day Tests.

  2. Take your sample – Use a home finger-prick kit or visit a clinic for a venous blood draw.

  3. Receive your results – Results are securely available online within 24 to 48 hours.

All tests are analysed by accredited UK laboratories, ensuring accurate and reliable readings.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a normal FSH and LH level in females?

Normal FSH and LH levels vary depending on your menstrual cycle stage. Early in the cycle (days 2–5), FSH typically ranges between 3 and 10 IU/L, while LH usually falls between 2 and 10 IU/L. High values may indicate menopause or reduced ovarian reserve.

Can hormonal birth control affect test results?

Yes, hormonal contraception can affect hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone. If you are using birth control, your results may differ from natural cycle ranges. It is best to discuss timing with a healthcare professional before testing.

Can I do a female hormone blood test at home?

Yes. One Day Tests offers a home testing kit that allows you to take a small finger-prick blood sample from the comfort of your home. Your results are reviewed by the laboratory and available online within 24 to 48 hours.

What does a female hormone blood test show for fertility?

A female hormone test shows whether your hormones are balanced for ovulation and conception. It can identify potential causes of fertility problems such as irregular ovulation, PCOS, or early menopause.

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