A cortisol blood test measures a key adrenal hormone that follows a strong daily rhythm. Learn why timing matters, how to prepare, what high or low results can mean, and what follow-up tests may be needed.
A prolactin blood test measures a pituitary hormone involved in milk production and reproductive hormone signaling. Learn why it is ordered, how to prepare, what high or low results may mean, and what follow-up testing may be needed.
An FSH blood test measures follicle-stimulating hormone, a pituitary hormone involved in ovulation, ovarian function, sperm production, puberty, and menopause-related hormone changes. Learn how testing works and how to interpret results in context.
A high or low LH result can mean very different things depending on cycle timing, age, menopause status, fertility goals, and related hormones. Here’s how to interpret the pattern.
High or low SHBG can change how much testosterone is available to your tissues, even when total testosterone looks normal. Learn what SHBG results mean, common causes, follow-up tests, and when to talk with a clinician.
A DHEA-S blood test measures dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, an adrenal androgen used to evaluate adrenal function and androgen-related symptoms. Learn what it checks, how to prepare, and how to read results.
An estradiol blood test measures the main form of estrogen in the blood. Learn why it is ordered, how to prepare, what can affect results, and how to compare testing options responsibly.
High or low free testosterone can reflect hormone production, SHBG binding, medications, timing, or assay method. Learn how to interpret the result and what follow-up labs may help.
A fasting insulin blood test measures the amount of insulin in your blood after an overnight fast. Learn why it is ordered, how to prepare, what results may mean, and how to compare self-pay testing options without overpaying.
