How to read a sex hormone panel report

Under normal circumstances, the six-item sex hormone report primarily evaluates estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Estradiol

Estradiol levels range from 48 to 521 pmol/L in the pre-ovulatory phase, 70 to 1835 pmol/L during ovulation, and 272 to 793 pmol/L in the post-ovulatory phase. Low values may indicate reduced ovarian function, premature ovarian failure, or Sheehan's syndrome.

2. Progesterone

Progesterone levels are 0–4.8 nmol/L before ovulation and 7.6–97.6 nmol/L after ovulation. Low post-ovulatory progesterone levels may suggest luteal phase deficiency or anovulatory dysfunctional uterine bleeding.

3. Prolactin

In non-lactating women, the normal prolactin level ranges from 0.08 to 0.92 nmol/L. A value exceeding 1.0 nmol/L may indicate hyperprolactinemia.

4. Testosterone

The normal testosterone concentration in women is 0.7–3.1 nmol/L. Elevated testosterone levels, known as hyperandrogenism, can lead to infertility. Increased serum testosterone is also commonly seen in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

5. Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

In non-ovulatory phases, LH levels below 5 mIU/mL typically suggest inadequate gonadotropin function. If both LH and FSH levels are elevated, this may indicate ovarian failure.

6. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Normally, FSH levels range between 5 and 40 mIU/mL. Low FSH values may occur during estrogen-progesterone therapy or in conditions such as Sheehan's syndrome. High FSH levels are associated with premature ovarian failure, ovarian insensitivity syndrome, and primary amenorrhea.

The six-item sex hormone panel assesses whether bodily functions are abnormal based on these indicators. If abnormalities are detected, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a qualified hospital.