It is important to determine if the normal sequence of hormonal events leading to the growth of eggs and the release of eggs (ovulation) is working properly. In addition to specific hormones produced by your ovaries, other hormones in your body may affect your ovaries as well.

Anti-mullerian hormone level (AMH) is perhaps the most important hormonal test that a woman should undergo. AMH can be performed at any time in your menstrual cycle. It can be assessed even if you do not get periods at all. AMH indicates the quantity of eggs in your body and can be correlated to egg quality and the average percent of chromosomally normal eggs with certain levels.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) is performed early in your menstrual cycle (Day 1, 2 or 3 of bleeding). FSH together with an estradiol level provides important information about the quantity and quality of a woman’s eggs. An abnormal or high FSH level can mean that it will be more difficult for the woman to conceive, while a low or normal value is more reassuring.

Progesterone levels can provide useful information to confirm that you are ovulating as well as to assess the preparation of the body for pregnancy. This test is usually performed in the second half of your menstrual cycle, approximately 1 week after ovulation normally occurs.

Prolactin (milk hormone) and thyroid levels can also affect your menstrual cycles and be useful to guide treatment plans.