How to Test Hormone Levels: FAQ Guide

Published March 19, 2025

Testing for hormone imbalances is essential for identifying potential underlying conditions and determining appropriate treatment options. This guide covers key information about how to get tested for hormone imbalance, including symptoms, risk factors, available tests, and how to interpret results.

Hormones play a vital role in regulating metabolism, growth, reproduction, and mood for both men and women. A hormone imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of a specific hormone in the bloodstream, which can disrupt normal body functions. According to research, nearly 80% of women experience a hormone imbalance at some point in their lives.¹,² While hormone fluctuations are normal, persistent imbalances can contribute to health issues such as fatigue, weight gain, infertility, and mood disorders.

What Are the Symptoms and Risks of Hormone Imbalance?

Hormonal imbalances can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the hormones affected. These symptoms may range from mild to severe.

Common Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight changes
• Mood swings or depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Irregular heart rate
• Digestive issues
• Changes in appetite or cravings³,⁴

Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms by Sex

In Women and Those Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB):

• Heavy or irregular periods
• Acne
• Excessive body hair growth (hirsutism)
• Low sex drive
• Hot flashes³,⁴

In Men and Those Assigned Male at Birth (AMAB):

• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Enlarged breast tissue (gynecomastia)
• Loss of muscle mass
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Low sex drive³,⁴

Who Is at Risk for Hormone Imbalance?

• Individuals with thyroid disorders
• Those with diabetes or metabolic conditions
• People taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control
• Those experiencing menopause, puberty, or pregnancy
• Individuals with chronic stress or high cortisol levels
• People with exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals⁵

What Types of Hormone Tests Are Available?

Quest offers hormone testing options to help detect imbalances and guide treatment.

Comprehensive Hormone Panels

• Women’s Hormone Panel Basic 
• Women’s Hormone Panel Expanded
• Men’s Hormone Panel Basic
• Men’s Hormone Panel Expanded

Specific Hormone Tests

• Testosterone Test – Measures total testosterone level
• Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test – Assesses thyroid function
• Progesterone Test – Evaluates reproductive hormone function
• Adiponectin Test – Evaluates glucose control and fat metabolism
• AMH Marker Test – Measures anti-mullerian hormone to estimate ovarian egg supply
• Ovarian Reserve Assessment Test Panel – Measures 5 hormones that impact ovulatory egg supply and function
• Early Menopause Panel – Determines if menopause is beginning
• Perimenopause Test – Checks hormone levels related to menopause transition
• Post Menopause Test – Test to help determine if you’re in or have completed menopause

How Should You Prepare for a Hormone Test?

• Fasting is required for some tests and not others: Please see the individual test to determine if you need to fast. Fasting involves avoiding food and drink (except water) for 10 to 12 hours before testing. 

• Best Time for Testing: Hormone levels fluctuate, so early morning testing is recommended
• For Women’s Panels: If you are having menstrual cycles, it is best to have your sample collected on cycle days 2, 3 or 4 (cycle day 1 is the first day of your period). If you are not having menstrual cycles, the test can be performed at your convenience
• Medication & Supplements: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications that may affect test results

How to Interpret Hormone Test Results

Your test results may not always be straightforward. You should work with your healthcare provider to interpret your individual results in combination with your health history.  

• Elevated or Low Hormone Levels: May indicate a hormone imbalance requiring further evaluation by a healthcare provider
• Normal Results: Suggest hormone levels are within expected ranges
• Follow-Up Testing: Your provider may recommend additional tests if symptoms persist

If hormone levels are abnormal, potential treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, or hormone replacement therapy. 

Why Choose Quest for Hormone Imbalance Testing?

Quest provides fast and convenient hormone testing with several key benefits:

• No doctor’s visit required—order online and visit a Quest location for sample collection
• Comprehensive testing options for detecting hormonal imbalances
• Independent physician consultations available at no extra cost for abnormal results

Buy Your Hormone Test Today

No doctor visit is required to buy your own lab test at questhealth.com. PWNHealth and its affiliates review your purchase to ensure it is medically appropriate before submitting the test order for processing. PWNHealth also reviews your test results and will contact you directly if they require prompt attention. Included in each purchase is the option to discuss your test results with an independent physician; however, you are also encouraged to speak with your primary healthcare provider.