What Hormones Are Tested During Your Fertility Journey?
At PCRM, we know that hormone testing plays a crucial role in evaluating reproductive health and guiding personalized fertility care. Here are the key hormones we measure as part of your fertility evaluation:
1. Anti‑Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Produced by small ovarian follicles, AMH provides insight to your ovarian reserve—the quantity and responsiveness of remaining eggs. Because AMH is stable throughout the menstrual cycle, it’s routinely measured to assess reproductive potential and plan options like egg freezing or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
2. Follicle‑Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
This pituitary hormone is typically measured on cycle day 3. Elevated FSH suggests diminished ovarian reserve, helping your doctor understand how your ovaries will respond to stimulation for IVF or other fertility treatments.
3. Estradiol (E2)
Also measured early in your cycle—often alongside FSH—estradiol levels provide insight into baseline ovarian function. Higher-than-normal E2 on day 3 may indicate premature follicle development or hormone feedback issues.
4. Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH works in tandem with FSH to regulate ovulation. Although it’s especially helpful in ovulation monitoring or diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), it's also assessed in some fertility protocols to clarify your ovulatory dynamics.
5. Progesterone
Measured during the mid‑luteal phase (about 7 days after ovulation), this hormone indicates whether ovulation has occurred and if your uterine lining is ready to support embryo implantation.
6. Prolactin
Excess prolactin (a hormone from the pituitary gland) can interfere with ovulation and implantation. We test it early in the evaluation to identify any hormonal imbalance that might be addressed before moving forward with treatment.
8. Male Partner Hormones (if indicated)
If male factor fertility concerns are identified, additional blood tests may be recommended—including FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin, and estradiol—to assess hormone-related sperm production or dysfunction.
🩺 How Hormone Testing Works at PCRM
When you begin your fertility journey—whether at our Victoria, Burnaby or Edmonton location—your initial evaluation typically includes:
- A follicular ultrasound to monitor ovarian anatomy and early follicle development.
- A blood draw for key hormone measures: AMH, FSH, estradiol, and possibly others, depending on your history or concerns.
Your fertility specialist will review your results, along with your menstrual history, ultrasound findings, and overall health, to create a personalized roadmap, whether that involves natural-cycle efforts, IUI, IVF, or fertility preservation.
Why These Tests Matter
| Hormone | What It Tells You | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| AMH | Egg quantity and ovarian reserve | Predicts responsiveness to IVF and the timeframe for childbearing |
| FSH / Estradiol (day 3) | Early ovarian activity and feedback loops | Indicates ovarian reserve and stimulation potential |
| LH | Ovulatory signaling | Helps diagnose PCOS or ovulatory disorders |
| Progesterone (mid-luteal) | Confirmation of ovulation | Ensures adequate luteal support for implantation |
| Prolactin | Pituitary hormone balance | Critical for menstrual regularity and fertility |
| Male hormones | Sperm production and endocrine function | Supports a balanced approach when male factor fertility exists |
What to Expect Going Forward
- Based on your hormone panel, PCRM’s reproductive endocrinologists may recommend additional tests (e.g. glucose metabolism, androgen levels, or imaging) or suggest a tailored treatment plan such as ovulation induction, IUI, IVF, or egg freezing.
- If any hormonal imbalances are identified, they can often be medically corrected, increasing the chances of conception.
Final Thoughts
Hormone testing is the cornerstone of any fertility evaluation; it empowers both you and your provider with insights into what’s happening behind the scenes. At PCRM, we combine hormone labs, ultrasound assessments, and reproductive expertise to guide every client toward their goals.
If you're ready to take the next step, whether starting IVF, exploring egg freezing, or first seeking clarity on your fertility status, PCRM is here to help with compassion, precision, and cutting‑edge care. Ask your doctor for a referral and meet with one of our pacificfertility.ca/fertility specialists to begin your journey.
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About the PCRM Blog
Welcome to the Pacific Fertility Centre for Reproductive Medicine Blog! Nationally and internationally recognized for providing exceptional reproductive care, our team believes in empowering people with the knowledge they need to navigate their unique fertility journeys.
From information on the latest fertility treatments to valuable insights on egg donation, surrogacy, and everything in between, the Pacific Centre for Reproductive Medicine Blog is your ultimate resource for all things reproductive care and support. Read on to learn more, and contact us today if you have any questions or want to schedule a new patient appointment.