FSH LH Prolactin Testosterone Profile Test

FSH-LH-Prolactin Testosterone test is a blood test to measure hormonal levels of FSH (Follicle stimulating hormone), LH (Luteinizing hormone), Prolactin hormone and Testosterone hormone in blood. All these four hormones are produced by the pituitary gland and are responsible for reproduction and sexual functions in males and females. 
FSH and LH are present both in men and women. In women it controls the menstrual cycle and stimulates the production of eggs (ovulation). In men it stimulates the production of sperm. It is present in low levels in children until puberty, post which the FSH levels increase to stimulate the production of oestrogen and testosterone.
Prolactin acts primarily on the mammary glands and its principal action involve - proliferation of mammary glands ; initiation of milk secretion . The levels of this hormone rises in pregnancy and during lactation. 
Testosterone is synthesized by both males and females. Male sex hormones (androgens) include testosterone.

The FSH-LH-Prolactin-Testosterone test is an assessment of a group of hormones responsible for reproduction and sexual functions in males and females. The tests analyze any hormonal changes which may cause infertility. The test may also check for damage or disease of the testes, ovaries, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. It also evaluates fertility issues and menstrual problems.

4 hormones are tested in The FSH-LH-Prolactin-Testosterone test. They are;

Follicular Stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinising Hormone (LH), Prolactin, and Testosterone in the blood.

Why is the FSH-LH-Prolactin-Testosterone test done?

These tests are used in different ways. This depends on whether you are a woman, man, or child. These tests are most often used:

• To investigate the function of reproductive organs
• To detect PCOS
• To detect issues in conceiving for women.
• To investigate infertility issues in males and females
• To evaluate irregular menstrual cycle in women
• To detect early or delayed sexual maturation in teens
• To investigate low sperm count in men
• To confirm the start of menopause, or perimenopause. Menopause is the end of the menstrual cycle and one cannot become pregnant.

What other tests are ordered along with the FSH-LH-Prolactin-Testosterone test?

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is tested to know T3 and T4 hormone levels. Pregnancy also affects TSH levels. Thyroid disease can develop during pregnancy.

Written by: Dr.Shibani R, Medical Writer, Medical Affairs