Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Can FSH And Estradiol Tests Be Performed On 3rd Day Of Menstrual Cycle?
Question: Hello, my gynecologist ordered the FSH and Estradiol lab test for me to have done today, but I am not on Day 3 of my menstrual cycle. I am very concerned the test results will be inaccurate because I am on Day 22 of my cycle - considered the Luteal Phase. Can you please advise if I need to contact my GYN and have the test taken again on Day 3? I have normal periods monthly, but have been unsuccessful conceiving in the past year. Thank you for your assistance. XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
You are correct - wrong timing in the cycle
Detailed Answer:
You are correct in your interpretation that this was not the correct point in the cycle to check these labs. Early in your cycle, your brain produces FSH which stimulates the ovaries to recruit eggs (which produce estrogen). In a normal cycle, FSH is normal and estrogen levels are normal during the first half of the cycle. If you have poor recruitment of eggs (because of low number or quality), FSH levels go up and estradiol levels might be in the lower ends of normal. Getting these labs in the second half of the cycle are useless, unless there is simply confusion about your cycle (which it sounds like there is not).
A better test is called AMH which is a true test of ovarian egg reserve and can be drawn at ANY point in the cycle.
Please tell me what other questions you have.
Dr. Tim
You are correct - wrong timing in the cycle
Detailed Answer:
You are correct in your interpretation that this was not the correct point in the cycle to check these labs. Early in your cycle, your brain produces FSH which stimulates the ovaries to recruit eggs (which produce estrogen). In a normal cycle, FSH is normal and estrogen levels are normal during the first half of the cycle. If you have poor recruitment of eggs (because of low number or quality), FSH levels go up and estradiol levels might be in the lower ends of normal. Getting these labs in the second half of the cycle are useless, unless there is simply confusion about your cycle (which it sounds like there is not).
A better test is called AMH which is a true test of ovarian egg reserve and can be drawn at ANY point in the cycle.
Please tell me what other questions you have.
Dr. Tim
Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
