An Amenorrhoea profile blood test is used to determine the cause of amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstruation. It can be primary (when a woman has never had a period by age 15 or within 3 years of breast development) or secondary (when menstruation stops for three or more months in someone who previously had regular periods). There are various causes of amenorrhea, including hormonal imbalances, ovarian or pituitary disorders, and structural abnormalities of the reproductive system.

The blood tests in an amenorrhea profile are designed to assess hormone levels and identify potential dysfunctions in the reproductive, thyroid, or adrenal systems.

Blood Test Cost – £179

Common Amenorrhoea Profile Blood Tests include:

1. LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

  • Purpose: LH is involved in triggering ovulation and regulating the menstrual cycle.
  • Why It’s Tested: High LH levels, especially in combination with high FSH levels, can indicate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Low LH levels can point to hypothalamic amenorrhea or pituitary disorders.

2. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

  • Purpose: FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles and is essential for the normal function of the ovaries.
  • Why It’s Tested: Elevated FSH levels can indicate ovarian failure or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), while low FSH may suggest hypothalamic or pituitary issues. In combination with other hormones, it helps diagnose conditions like PCOS.

3. Oestradiol (E2)

  • Purpose: Measures the primary form of oestrogen in women.
  • Why It’s Tested: Low levels of oestradiol can indicate ovarian dysfunction or hypothalamic amenorrhea. It is also used to assess whether the ovaries are producing enough oestrogen to maintain normal menstrual function.

4. Prolactin

  • Purpose: Measures the hormone that stimulates milk production.
  • Why It’s Tested: High prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) can cause amenorrhea by suppressing ovulation. This is often due to a prolactinoma (a benign pituitary tumour) or other pituitary disorders.

5. Testosterone (Total and Free)

  • Purpose: Measures levels of testosterone, the primary androgen.
  • Why It’s Tested: Elevated testosterone levels are associated with PCOS, which is a common cause of amenorrhea. High testosterone can also indicate an adrenal or ovarian tumour, though this is less common.

6. SHBG

7. Free Androgen Index

Additional Diagnostic Tests:

In some cases, additional tests or imaging may be required to confirm the diagnosis:

  • Pelvic Ultrasound: To check for ovarian cysts (in PCOS) or structural abnormalities of the reproductive organs.
  • MRI of the Pituitary Gland: If a pituitary tumour (e.g., prolactinoma) is suspected.

Common Causes of Amenorrhoea:

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): The most common cause of secondary amenorrhea due to hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation.
  • Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): Early loss of ovarian function before the age of 40.
  • Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: Caused by stress, excessive exercise, or low body weight, leading to a disruption in the signals from the brain that regulate the menstrual cycle.
  • Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated prolactin levels, often due to a prolactinoma or medication side effects.
  • Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause menstrual irregularities.
  • Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): A genetic disorder leading to excessive androgen production and menstrual disruption.

Importance of an Amenorrhoea Profile Blood Test:

This profile of blood tests helps healthcare providers determine the cause of amenorrhea, whether it’s related to hormonal imbalances, ovarian function, or other systemic issues. Once the cause is identified, appropriate treatment can be initiated to restore normal menstrual function or manage the underlying condition (e.g., PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, or ovarian insufficiency).

Results – 1 day from Laboratory receiving sample