Andrology Panel
Understanding Andrology Panel
What is Andrology Panel?
An Andrology Panel is a group of blood tests that provides a comprehensive assessment of reproductive health primarily in males as well as females. These tests include key hormones, including luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and the testosterone free and total. They help evaluate potential reproductive health problems including hormonal imbalances and fertility issues in both males and females.
An Andrology Panel test measures the levels of essential hormones that play a vital role in fertility, sexual function and overall hormone balance in both males and females. LH and FSH testing is useful for predicting ovulation, evaluating infertility and diagnosing pituitary disorders. Also, it is done as an adjunct in the evaluation of menstrual irregularities and evaluating individuals with suspected hypogonadism.
An Andrology Panel is usually recommended in response to reproductive health concerns in both males and females. In males, it is specifically useful for those facing fertility challenges, sexual dysfunctions like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation, or those with symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as low libido, fatigue, mood swings or changes in muscle mass. Additionally, it helps monitor effectiveness of hormone therapy and assess testicular health. For females, it is recommended when there are menstrual irregularities, symptoms of PCOS or difficulty with fertility.
This test helps identify potential hormonal imbalances or reproductive health concerns in both males and females, aiding in the early diagnosis and management.
In males, no special preparation is required for this test.However, in females, the preferred sampling time is day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle for LH & FSH. Inform your doctor about all the medications or supplements that you may be taking as well as your medical history as all these factors could affect the test results.
Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Interpretation of the test results requires professional expertise. Therefore, do not self-medicate and always consult a doctor to understand your test results correctly.
What is Andrology Panel used for?
An Andrology Panel is done:
- To determine infertility causes in both men and women.
- To assess hormonal imbalances affecting sexual and reproductive health.
- To evaluate low testosterone levels impacting libido or physical health(muscle mass) in males.
- To investigate ovulatory and menstrual irregularities in females.
- To examine potential endocrine disorders affecting fertility and reproductive organs.
What does Andrology Panel measure?
Contains 4 testsAn Andrology Panel measures essential hormones that play a significant role in reproductive health for both males and females. The panel tests for Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). LH and FSH testing is useful in predicting ovulation, evaluating infertility, diagnosing pituitary disorders, and evaluating patients with suspected hypogonadism. Also, this test is done as an adjunct in the evaluation of menstrual irregularities in females. Additionally, the panel assesses Total and Free Testosterone levels, which are vital for reproductive and overall health. In males, testosterone influences sperm production, libido, and physical strength, while in females, it plays a role in regulating energy levels, sex drive, bone and muscle health. Collectively, these measurements provide valuable insights into hormonal balance and help in identifying potential reproductive and endocrine issues.
LH & FSH
The LH & FSH test measures the levels of two key hormones - follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the blood. These hormones are vital for hormonal function and overall reproductive health in both males and females.
In females, FSH stimulates the growth and recruitment of immature ovarian follicles in the ovary.When the follicle matures and reaches 8–10 mm in diameter it starts to secrete significant amounts of estradiol. The sharp increase in estradiol production by the dominant follicle causes an LH surge. LH levels rise just before ovulation to trigger the release of a mature egg. This way, FSH levels help assess ovarian function in females. In males, FSH levels help assess testicular function. It helps in tthe production and maturation of sperm, while LH stimulates testosterone production.
The levels of these hormones are typically low during younger ages. However, as adolescence approaches, the brain starts producing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH. These gonadotropin hormones play a crucial role in the production of sex hormones such as testosterone, which are responsible for initiating the changes of puberty and controlling reproductive function in both males and females.
Know more about LH & FSH
This further contains
- Luteinising Hormone
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone
Testosterone Total & Free
A Testosterone Total & Free test measures the total amount of testosterone in your body, including the testosterone that is bound to proteins: albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and the testosterone that is free and not bound to proteins.
Know more about Testosterone Total & Free
This further contains
- Testosterone Total
- Testosterone Free
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Andrology Panel
Frequently Asked Questions about Andrology Panel
Q. Who should get an Andrology Panel?
Q. Who should consider taking an Andrology Panel?
Q. Do I need to fast before the test?
Q. When is the best time to get tested?
Q. Can women take the Andrology panel?
Q. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Q. How often should I get an Andrology Panel done?
Q. What are common causes of male infertility?
Q. What are common causes of female infertility?
Q. What lifestyle changes can help improve fertility in men and women?
Q. Does age affect fertility in both genders?
Q. Can infertility be treated?
Q. Do sexually transmitted infections (STIs) impact fertility?
Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?
Book a Andrology Panel test at home near me
References
- Leslie SW, Soon-Sutton TL, Khan MAB. Male Infertility. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562258/
- Infertility [Internet]. WHO; 03 Apr. 2023 [Accessed 06 Nov. 2024]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility#:~:text=Key%20 facts,on%20their%20families%20and%20communities.
- Infertility FAQs [Internet]. CDC; 26 Apr. 2023 [Accessed 06 Nov. 2024]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/infertility/index.htm
- Infertility and fertility [Internet]. NIH; [Accessed 06 Nov. 2024]. Available from: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/infertility#:~:text=%22Infertility%22%20is%20a%20term%20that,but%20they%20are%20slightly%20different.
- Carson SA, Kallen AN. Diagnosis and Management of Infertility: A Review. JAMA. 2021 Jul 6;326(1):65-76. [Accessed 06 Nov. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9302705/
Other tests
