OVERVIEW
Amenorrhea is a medical condition that is defined as the absence of menstrual blood flow. Amenorrhea is of two types, primary and secondary. Primary amenorrhea is when the menstrual cycle does not begin by age 16 and secondary amenorrhea is when the menstrual cycle stops in a woman who has been menstruating.
Amenorrhea profile lab test includes:
- Follicle-stimulating hormone
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone
- Luteinizing hormone
- Prolactin
The treatment of amenorrhea should be started after pregnancy is excluded by HCG testing.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
This test measures the following hormones:
FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone): FSH is produced by the pituitary gland, released into the bloodstream and is responsible for various reproductive functions. This hormone is released by both men and women, for women, it is important for the release of their egg and in males, it is responsible for a normal sperm count.
TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone): Thyroid-stimulating hormone is a pituitary hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine, and then triiodothyronine which stimulates the tissue metabolism.
LH (Luteinizing hormone): LH is a hormone released by the pituitary gland, located on the underside of the brain. In women, an increase in the LH level at mid-cycle causes the release of eggs.
Prolactin hormone: Prolactin, also known as the luteotropic hormone, is a milk-producing protein.
Q1. How is this test performed?
This test is performed on a blood sample. A syringe with a fine needle is used to withdraw blood from a blood vessel in your arm. The healthcare provider will tie an elastic band around your arm to make the blood vessels swell with blood. This makes it easier to withdraw blood. You may be asked to tightly clench your fist. Once the veins are visible, the area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and then the needle is inserted into the blood vessel to collect the sample. You will feel a tiny pinprick during the procedure. Blood sample once collected will then be sent to the laboratory.
Q2. Is there any risk associated with this test?
There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.
Q3. How does thyroid-stimulating hormone causes amenorrhea?
A hormone thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) that stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone has a direct effect on the ovary.
Q4. What is the function of prolactin?
Prolactin hormone is made in the pituitary gland, located below the brain. When women are pregnant or have just given birth, the prolactin level increases to make breast milk.
WHY GET TESTED?
The test may be ordered by the physician for several reasons:
- Difficulty and problems getting pregnant
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Menopause
- Early or late puberty
- Hypothalamus or pituitary disorders
