Are Online Hormone Tests Accurate?
First off, there is no such thing as an online hormone test. Checking for hormonal imbalances requires testing blood or saliva samples, which is impossible to do online. Also, while you can order hormone test kits online, they are not as accurate and reliable as a lab-based test.
If you want a comprehensive hormone panel, you will need to visit a laboratory in person. But before that, you may need to secure a hormone test referral from your GP or a qualified healthcare professional.
Too busy to visit your GP? No worries. While it’s not possible to get a hormone test entirely online, it’s very much possible to get a hormone test referral online. With Instant Consult, getting a hormone test referral takes no more than a few clicks.
Simply download our app to connect with our AHPRA-accredited doctors. During the video consultation, tell your doctor why you think you need a hormone test. If deemed necessary, they will send the referral straight to your device right after the call. You can then take it to your preferred collection centre to get the tests you need.
This means no more waiting rooms or travel time. You can receive personalised care and advice wherever and whenever it suits you, putting you on the fast track to understanding your hormonal health better. In case you missed, Instant consult also offers respiratory infection referral, ultrasound referral, gynaecologist referral, and more.
Are You Living With a Hormone Imbalance?
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. So, when hormone levels are off, it can lead to a range of symptoms. Here’s how you might tell if you’re experiencing a hormonal imbalance:
- Unexpected weight gain or difficulty shedding weight despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle could be a sign of thyroid issues or cortisol imbalances.
- Irregular periods or severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms might suggest imbalances in oestrogen (also known as estrogen) or progesterone.
- Low libido or a noticeable change in sex drive, potentially linked to low oestrogen or testosterone levels.
- Persistent fatigue can be a symptom of thyroid dysfunction or low cortisol levels.
- Mood swings, anxiety, or depression may be related to fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone.
- Physical changes such as hair loss, dry skin, or acne could indicate imbalances in hormones like testosterone or oestrogen.
- Symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, can occur due to declining levels of oestrogen and progesterone.
- Sleep disturbances or night sweats might be caused by low oestrogen levels.
- Changes in appetite or unusual food cravings can be linked to various hormonal imbalances.
Note that these signs can also be related to other health conditions. So, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.
Why Hormone Levels Change
Hormone levels change for various reasons, such as:
- Natural life stages like puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and perimenopause can cause your hormone levels to fluctuate, especially in women.
- Stress impacts cortisol and adrenaline, altering overall hormonal balance.
- Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, influence weight gain, sex drive, and menstrual cycle.
- Health conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, and adrenal gland issues can cause hormonal imbalances, affecting fertility and menstrual cycles.
- Ageing decreases certain hormones, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and low libido.
- Medications and supplements may alter hormone production or processing.
Common Types of Hormone Tests
Different types of hormone tests measure levels of specific hormones in your body to identify imbalances. These tests can be done through urine, blood, or saliva testing. Some of the most common types of hormone tests are:
- Thyroid Hormone Tests: Assess levels of T3, T4, and TSH to check thyroid function. They help identify conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
- Cortisol Test: Measures the cortisol level to evaluate adrenal function and stress responses. High levels of cortisol can lead to conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
- Oestrogen Tests: Measure levels of oestrogen hormones, including oestradiol (or estradiol). Important for assessing ovarian function, fertility issues, and menopausal symptoms.
- Progesterone Test: Checks levels of progesterone (a key female hormone) to help evaluate ovulation, pregnancy health, and menstrual cycle irregularities.
- Testosterone Test: Measures testosterone levels, which are vital for diagnosing low sex drive, infertility, and certain conditions like PCOS.
- DHEA-Sulfate (DHEA-S) Test: Assesses levels of DHEA-S, an androgen that can affect sex drive and menstrual cycle. It’s also used to check adrenal gland function.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: Evaluates FSH levels, which are crucial for understanding ovarian reserve and overall reproductive health.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Test: Measures LH levels to assess menstrual cycle health, ovulation, and, sometimes, the function of the testes.
- Prolactin Test: Checks prolactin levels, important for diagnosing infertility, irregular periods, and milk production not related to pregnancy.
- Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test: Measures SHBG levels, which affect the availability of sex hormones in the body. It’s used to evaluate hormonal imbalances related to conditions like PCOS and thyroid issues.
- Comprehensive Hormone Panel: A broader test that includes several hormones, such as oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones, to give a complete picture of hormonal health.
How to Organise a Hormone Test Online
Getting your hormones checked in Australia is pretty straightforward. Here’s how you can arrange a hormone test from the comfort of your own home.
Step 1: Get a Referral
Technically, you can get a hormone test without a referral. However, it can be necessary for Medicare or insurance coverage. It also ensures you get the right type of test for your needs. That’s why this should be your first step if you’re considering a hormone test.
To get an online hormone test referral:
- Start by logging in to your Instant Consult account. If you don’t have one yet, just download our app or visit our homepage to sign up.
- Once you’re in, request a consultation and follow the prompts. The first available doctor will connect with you within 15 minutes.
- During the video call, share your symptoms or concerns related to hormonal health.
- If the doctor agrees that hormone testing is appropriate, they will provide you with a referral. It will be sent directly to your device right after the call.
Step 2: Take the Test
Bring your referral to the pathology lab of your choice. Depending on the type of hormone you want to check, your test may involve urine, saliva, or blood tests. The lab will then analyse your samples, which can take a few days to a week, depending on the test.
Step 3: Get Your Results
If you got your referral from Instant Consult, your results will be sent directly to us. We will then inform you through SMS, email, or app notification when your results are ready.
Step 4: Follow Up Consultation
Once you get the notification, you need to book another online consultation. During this, our doctors will explain your results and advise you on the next course of action.
Managing Hormone Imbalance at Home
Managing hormonal imbalances can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Aside from referrals, our doctors can provide a range of healthcare services to help you manage your hormonal health from the comfort of your own home.
From online prescriptions to regulate your hormone levels to pathology referrals for monitoring, you can get the care you need without having to see a GP in person. For more complex cases, they can also provide radiology referrals, specialist referrals, and even medical certificates if needed.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, don’t wait to seek help. Book an online consultation with Instant Consult today. Let us guide you towards better hormonal health.
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