How to Interpret the Results of the Six Sex Hormone Tests and Their Normal Values

Generally, the six-item sex hormone test mainly includes testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin. Their normal values vary according to different phases of the physiological cycle. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Testosterone: The normal value for males is 14–25.4 nmol/L. The normal value for females is 1.3–2.8 nmol/L. Females generally have lower testosterone levels than males. Elevated testosterone levels may indicate polycystic ovary syndrome or adrenal hyperfunction; decreased levels may indicate hypogonadism.

2. Estradiol: Estradiol is the primary estrogen in females and plays an important role in maintaining female reproductive function and secondary sexual characteristics. Its normal values vary with the physiological cycle: follicular phase 45.4–85.4 pmol/L, ovulatory phase 151–1461 pmol/L, luteal phase 81.9–1251 pmol/L. Estradiol levels decrease during menopause, typically less than 18.4–505 pmol/L. Estradiol levels also increase during pregnancy.

3. Progesterone: Progesterone is a hormone secreted by the corpus luteum and helps maintain pregnancy. Its normal values vary with the physiological cycle: follicular phase 0.181–2.84 nmol/L, ovulatory phase 0.385–38.1 nmol/L, luteal phase 5.82–75.9 nmol/L. Progesterone levels are typically very low in postmenopausal women, close to 0 nmol/L. Progesterone levels also increase during pregnancy.

4. Luteinizing Hormone (LH): The main function of LH is to promote ovulation and luteal formation. Its normal value range varies with the physiological cycle: follicular phase 2.41–2.6 mIU/ml, ovulatory phase 14–95.6 mIU/ml, luteal phase 1.01–1.4 mIU/ml. LH levels may increase in postmenopausal women.

5. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): The main function of FSH is to stimulate follicular development and maturation. Its normal value range varies with the physiological cycle: pre-ovulatory phase 3.5–12.5 mIU/ml, ovulatory phase 4.7–21.5 mIU/ml, luteal phase 1.7–7.7 mIU/ml. FSH levels typically increase in postmenopausal women.

6. Prolactin: The main function of prolactin is to promote breast development and lactation. The normal prolactin level in non-lactating women is usually 97.7–651.7 mIU/ml. Elevated prolactin levels may be associated with conditions such as hyperprolactinemia.

The above normal reference ranges are for reference only. Specific values may vary depending on the hospital, testing equipment, and methods used. When interpreting the results of the six-item sex hormone test, the normal reference ranges provided by the specific testing facility should be consulted, and comprehensive judgment should be made in combination with the patient's physiological cycle and clinical presentation.