Hormones - When should I test? - Menopause Message Board

kittywitty · 03-31-2009, 12:58 PM

I'm currently in perimenopause. I've been using a progesterone cream for a few months to help bring my level up, which was very low the last time I was tested. I'm going to get my levels checked again in a month or so and I was wondering at what time during my cycle should I get the blood work done? Right after ovulation? During my period or right after?

I've tried researching this extensively and haven't found any answers. The only information that I've found is something that says not to take any hormones near the time when the blood is being drawn, which makes sense. For example, if you get the test done in the morning, take the hormones after the blood is drawn. Thanks for any and all replies.

Titchou · 03-31-2009, 02:14 PM

When I had mine done I was on bcp so I had it drawn the day before I started back on the active pills after the placebo ones. That's all I can offer.

herekittykitty · 04-01-2009, 06:50 AM

When I had mine checked with the saliva test, it was supposed to be done between the days of 18-21 of your cycle.

I also had this done by a blood draw. It did not matter on the blood draw which day you went because they have different lab ranges for where you are in your cycle. They had ranges for luteal, follicular, midcycle, pregnant, postmenopausal, contraceptives.

kittywitty · 04-01-2009, 11:42 AM

Thank you both for your replies, much appreciated. Herekittykitty, is the saliva testing more accurate? I heard it was.

herekittykitty · 04-01-2009, 02:38 PM

My doctor seems to think the saliva test is more accurate/reliable. I talked her into getting some levels done through blood work to help with the cost because my insurance will pay for blood work but not for saliva testing. She insisted on testing estrogen and progesterone through saliva though, as that is where she felt my issues were.