Fertility Hormones In IVF
In a fertility work-up, Cycle Day 3 is the day when a woman is asked to perform certain blood tests. These tests are to check the levels of three important hormones – follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and estradiol (E2).
The FSH blood test is used to help diagnose problems with development, menstruation, and fertility. It can be used to evaluate polycystic ovary disease, premature menopause, irregular bleeding and infertility. The LH blood test measures the amount of luteinizing hormone, which is secreted by the pituitary gland. In women, LH levels rise at mid-cycle; within 24 to 36 hours following which ovulation occurs. Higher-than-normal levels of LH indicate several disorders, including ovarian failure and polycystic ovary disease. Estradiol is the most important form of estrogen in women. The fertility specialist also commonly measure E2 levels in women as part of ovarian reserve testing. During IVF programme setting E2 levels in women are measured to monitor follicular development.
IVF hormones
The natural levels of prolactin in the body change throughout the day. Levels gradually rise overnight and are at their highest in the morning. High levels of prolactin in the blood can stop the ovaries from making the hormone estrogen and may cause infertility. Thyroid hormones are important in preventing miscarriage and aiding foetal brain development. Low levels of thyroid hormone can interfere with the release of an egg from your ovary (ovulation), which impairs fertility.