Description

This session will offer an overview of the testing of female reproductive hormones. Female reproductive health is a complex topic and related health issues can involve many different variables. We will discuss the physiology of reproductive hormones. We will also discuss the pros and cons of serum, saliva and urine testing for these hormones. Providers will learn the best scenarios to use different types of tests. Imbalances in reproductive hormones come in many different forms. Laboratory testing can help better define the nature of a hormone imbalance and improve treatment strategies. Case studies as well as published studies will be used heavily in helping providers apply best practices especially as it relates to fertility.

Learning Objectives

a. The physiology of female reproductive hormones

b. The testing of reproductive hormones (pros and cons of serum, saliva, urine) and when to use different laboratory tests

c. Treating female reproductive hormone imbalance in light of laboratory findings (i.e. PCOS, luteal phase defect, PMS, with special focus on infertility)