Fertility Analysis

Estradiol (E2) is the most important estrogen in the body and plays a central role in fertility and the female cycle. It is predominantly produced in the ovaries, and in smaller amounts in the testes and adrenal glands in men. Estradiol also influences bone metabolism, the skin, and the cardiovascular system.

High estradiol levels can be found, for example, during ovulation, pregnancy, or hormone therapies. Low levels occur during menopause and can be associated with symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, or bone loss.

The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is produced in the testes in men and in the ovaries in women. In male embryos, it ensures that the Müllerian ducts regress, while female embryos have only very low AMH levels, allowing the uterus and fallopian tubes to develop.

In women of reproductive age, the AMH level serves as a measure of the so-called ovarian reserve – a high value means that many eggs are still present; with increasing age, the level decreases and falls to zero with menopause. AMH measurements are primarily used in fertility treatments to estimate the number of available eggs and to plan hormone dosing. The test is also used to detect a premature transition to menopause and to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome or certain ovarian tumors.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) is produced in the pituitary gland and plays a central role in fertility. In women, it stimulates the maturation of follicles in the ovaries, while in men, it supports the production of sperm in the testes.

Elevated FSH levels may indicate that the ovaries or testes are no longer functioning adequately, as is the case during menopause, for example. Low levels are more indicative of a disorder in the pituitary gland or the overarching hormonal system.

Prolactin is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in the development of mammary glands and milk production after birth. Even outside of pregnancy and breastfeeding, prolactin can be detected in the blood.

Elevated prolactin levels can lead to menstrual cycle disorders, infertility, or milk flow without pregnancy. In men, elevated levels often manifest as potency disorders or reduced sexual drive. Low levels are rare and usually of little significance.

Progesterone is a central hormone of the female cycle. It is produced after ovulation in the corpus luteum of the ovaries and ensures that the uterine lining is prepared for a possible pregnancy. If fertilization occurs, the progesterone level remains high and is later maintained by the placenta.

If progesterone is lacking or the level is too low, it can lead to cycle disorders, difficulties in the implantation of an egg, or early miscarriages. Elevated levels occur naturally during pregnancy but can also arise outside of it due to hormonal disorders, cysts, or rarely, tumors.