Hormone tests carried out as part of the first examinations of women seeking reproductive treatment are known as endocrine assessments. An initial endocrine evaluation, also known as an endocrine profile, is a blood test to measure the levels of many hormones in the blood, including oestradiol, progesterone, prolactin, testosterone, thyroid function, and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH).
How do hormone imbalances affect fertility and what causes them?
Hormone levels can be impacted by various lifestyle choices, including stress, excessive exercise, lack of sun exposure, and abnormal body weight (BMI 19 or above). These problems may lead to irregular menstruation, which may affect egg maturation, ovulation, and pregnancy implantation. More crucially, any direct or indirect health issue affecting the reproductive system, particularly the ovaries and testes, can cause hormonal imbalances, which can suggest a person’s incapacity to release eggs or generate healthy sperm.
What part do different hormones play in the process of reproduction?
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): It promotes the development of follicles and egg from the immature stage to the mature stage.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH): This hormone is crucial for the development and release of eggs.
- Oestradiol (Oestrogen): It comes from the follicle that is growing. When the follicle is larger and of excellent quality, the oestradiol level is higher. Oestradiol also plays an important role in the development of the endometrium which is the uterine lining.
- Progesterone: It fosters an environment that is conducive to the establishment of a pregnancy or the implantation of an embryo.
- Prolactin: Women who breastfeed have been observed to have greater prolactin levels. Prolactin levels can frequently rise, which may prevent ovulation or the release of the eggs. These circumstances include persistent stress, thyroid function issues, and some small brain tumours known as prolactinomas.
- Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH): One of the finest tests to gauge ovarian reserve is this hormone. Before beginning fertility treatments, such as assisted conception or IVF, it is almost always checked.
Takeaway
Endocrine assessment is a crucial process that helps doctors identify hormonal imbalances that can lead to various health conditions. The endocrine system regulates the body’s hormonal balance, and any disruptions can cause a range of problems, including infertility, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and more.
Through various tests, including blood tests, imaging tests, and urine tests, doctors can assess the function of the endocrine system and identify any abnormalities. These tests can also help determine the underlying cause of hormonal imbalances, such as tumours or genetic disorders.
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment options can be pursued, including medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes. Regular monitoring of hormone levels can also be performed to ensure that treatment is effective and that hormone levels remain within a healthy range.
Overall, endocrine assessment plays a critical role in maintaining overall health and well-being. By identifying and treating hormonal imbalances, individuals can prevent and manage a range of health conditions and improve their quality of life.
Ferticity IVF & Fertility Clinics is one of the best fertility clinics in Delhi. If you are someone who wants to know more about endocrine assessment or still have questions about it, call us at +91 9910120674/+91-11-45890000. We’re here to help you.