Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Blood Test
Monitor your levels of oestradiol, progesterone, and FSH during hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Blood Test
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause by replenishing the body with hormones that are at lower levels during this period.
Why have a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Blood Test?
- Optimising Treatment Dosage: Regular blood tests help determine if the dosage of hormones in the HRT regimen is appropriate for you. Adjustments may be needed based on hormone levels to ensure that the therapy effectively relieves menopausal symptoms while minimising potential risks.
- Assessing Hormone Balance: Monitoring hormone levels allows healthcare providers to evaluate the balance between oestradiol and progesterone, essential for mimicking the hormonal fluctuations of a natural menstrual cycle in women who have not undergone a hysterectomy. This balance is crucial for preventing endometrial hyperplasia and reducing the risk of endometrial cancer.
- Evaluating Treatment Response: Blood tests provide insight into how the body is responding to HRT. Changes in hormone levels can indicate whether the therapy is effectively managing menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.
What is tested? - 3 Biomarkers
- Hormones – FSH, Progesterone and Oestradiol
Appointment duration: Approx. 10 minutes
Please note:
- Results can take up to 2-3 working days from the sample being sent in the post.
- Your results will include a doctor’s overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
What is the process?
- Our experienced phlebotomist will uncover your right or left arm.
- A tourniquet will be placed around your upper arm. A tourniquet makes it easier for a needle to be placed in your veins by swelling the veins.
- Once the tourniquet is fitted, a small quantity of blood will be drawn into tubes, using a needle.
- After the blood draw is completed, a plaster will be placed onto the site; this can be removed after a couple of hours.
- We will then post your sample to our partner laboratory for analysis.
- You will receive your results 2-3 working days after the sample has been sent onto the laboratory.
What do I do with my results?
Your results will include a doctor's overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Preparing for your blood test?
- Hydrate – Try to reduce caffeine intake and drink plenty of water before the day of your blood draw, making it easier for our phlebotomist to locate a vein for blood to be drawn from
- Loose Clothing – Our phlebotomist will require access to your arm. Please wear loose clothing to make accessing your arm easier and more comfortable.
- Medication – Please let our phlebotomist know if you are on blood thinners on the day of your blood draw.
Frequently asked questions?
How much blood is taken?
Approximately 8 ml of blood is taken; this is placed into a special tube for transportation to the laboratory.
How long is the appointment?
The appointment is approximately 10 minutes long. Please ensure to arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork that may be outstanding.
What if I'm scared of needles?
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about needles, but please be assured that you are in good hands. Our phlebotomist is experienced and compassionate, and they are here to support you every step of the way. Upon arrival to the clinic, please communicate your concerns to our phlebotomist who will take extra care when carrying out the blood draw.
What if you can't get a blood sample on the day?
Occasionally, we may encounter difficulty in obtaining a blood sample from you. There can be various reasons for this, including insufficient hydration, feeling cold, or having undergone another blood test recently. We'll always offer you another appointment so that we can make another attempt at obtaining the sample.
Finding Hey Baby 4D Stalybridge
Our clinic is easily accessible for expectant parents from Tameside, Glossop, Oldham, Greater Manchester & Stockport. The clinic is 1.5 miles from Tameside General Hospital. Both the railway and bus stations are in close proximity to the clinic.