What Tests Are Used to Diagnose a Woman Having Hormone Problems?

Hormone imbalances are usually diagnosed with blood or saliva tests. Sometimes, additional tests are needed to fully diagnose the problem, because the doctors may need to see the condition of a woman's ovaries and uterus to find out if she has cysts or other abnormalities. They can check the condition of her reproductive organs with an ultrasound scan. A pelvic exam may also be needed.

Blood Tests

• Blood tests are used to test the ratio of hormone levels in the blood. One of the more common tests is done to measure the level of a woman's thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), or thyrotropin. These tests can determine if the woman's symptoms are being caused by high or low thyroid levels, or if there is another cause. Another common test, the estrogen fractions/fractionated test, is used to find out if a woman's body is producing ovary follicle stimulating estrogen. Hormones shift naturally throughout the month, so sometimes more than one test is needed. Your doctor may also do a physical exam to see if you display any physical signs of a hormonal imbalance such as facial hair, weight gain and acne.

Ultrasound Scan

• An ultrasound scan is another test that is sometimes used to confirm a possible diagnosis or investigate further. Sometimes women with hormonal problems may have cysts on and around their ovaries.

Pelvic Exam

• Some doctors also perform a pelvic exam to see if a woman's uterus is abnormally shaped or has any sign of strange growths. During the exam, the doctor feels the woman's lower abdomen to get an idea of the size and shape of her ovaries; he will also use a speculum to check for cervical abnormalities. A sample of cells is taken from the cervix and sent to a lab.

Saliva Test

• Saliva testing is used to check the levels of testosterone, estrogen and other hormones in the body. This test is fairly accurate, and is less invasive than other hormone tests. The saliva swab is placed in a container and sent back to the lab for evaluation.

Urinalysis

• A urinalysis is also used to check for hormonal imbalances by checking for rises and surges in hormone levels. This test measures levels of adrenal and sex hormones such as estrogen and adrosterone. Urine samples must be sent out within 24 hours to get an accurate reading.