Hormone Testing
A blood test that measures the level of hormones including: testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, prolactin, and others to determine the overall balance of the hormonal system relating to reproduction.
What it diagnoses :
Hormones are vital for normal sperm production. They drive sexual desire, and affect a man’s ability to have sex. These hormones are produced by the pituitary gland, and hypothalamus in the brain. There are many underlying conditions that may cause hormone imbalances, including (but not limited to): Diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, hypogonadism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal insufficiency, hormone therapy, some tumors (benign or cancerous), eating disorders, medications, stress, injury or trauma and/or cancer treatment.
Signs of Hormonal Issues:
Some signs that may indicate a hormonal issue include decrease in beard and body hair growth, fatigue, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, depression, low sex drive, memory loss, loss of muscle mass and mood swings.
When to Schedule your Appointment:
Because hormone levels fluctuate during the day, timing of the hormone test is important. Testosterone naturally peaks in the morning, therefore an early blood test will be essential to accurately measure hormone levels.
For additional information you can visit the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
It is ok to share your distress with your wife. She really wants to know and understand what is going on. Vulnerability breeds connection.
