What factors affect the results of sex hormone tests?
Generally, the results of sex hormone tests may be affected by factors such as medication interference, physiological status, disease status, stress response, and sample collection time. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Medication Interference
Certain medications, such as antidepressants, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy drugs, may interfere with the normal secretion or metabolism of sex hormones, thereby affecting test results. These medications may lead to abnormal sex hormone levels by influencing the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
2. Physiological Status
A woman's physiological status, such as different phases of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or lactation, can affect sex hormone levels. For example, progesterone levels significantly increase during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, while estrogen levels are relatively higher during the follicular phase.
3. Disease Status
Certain endocrine disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, and adrenal cortical hyperfunction, may lead to abnormal sex hormone levels. These diseases can affect the synthesis, secretion, or metabolism of sex hormones, thereby influencing test results.
4. Stress Response
Severe physical or psychological stress may cause temporary fluctuations in sex hormone levels. For example, surgery, trauma, intense pain, or significant mental stress may trigger a stress response, which in turn affects the results of sex hormone testing.
5. Sample Collection Time
Sex hormone levels may fluctuate throughout the day. Therefore, the timing of sample collection is crucial for obtaining accurate test results. Improper timing of sample collection may lead to underestimation or overestimation of sex hormone levels.
Prior to undergoing sex hormone testing, it is advisable to maintain a stable physiological condition and avoid factors that may influence sex hormone levels, such as strenuous exercise or emotional fluctuations.
