Description
10 Most Important Blood Tests for Women
Know Your Numbers! Stay proactive and informed about your health.
1. C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (hs-CRP)
What It Measures: A protein made by the liver in response to inflammation.
Why It Matters: High-sensitivity CRP can detect low levels of inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, autoimmune conditions, and other chronic illnesses. It's particularly important for evaluating cardiovascular risk.
2. Testosterone, Total
What It Measures: The total amount of testosterone (bound and free) in the blood.
Why It Matters: While often thought of as a male hormone, women also produce testosterone in smaller amounts. Imbalances can lead to fatigue, weight gain, acne, hair thinning, mood changes, or symptoms of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
3. CA-125 (Cancer Antigen 125)
What It Measures: A protein that may be elevated in the blood when ovarian cancer is present.
Why It Matters: CA-125 is not a definitive diagnostic tool but may be used for monitoring ovarian cancer or investigating unexplained pelvic symptoms. Elevated levels can also be seen in benign conditions like endometriosis or menstruation.
4. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
What It Measures: A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that tells the thyroid how much thyroid hormone to make.
Why It Matters: TSH is the first-line screening test for thyroid function. Abnormal levels may indicate hypothyroidism (low thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (high thyroid), both of which can affect energy, weight, mood, and reproductive health.
5. Thyroid Antibodies (TPO and TgAb)
What It Measures:
TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies): Indicates autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.
TgAb (Thyroglobulin Antibodies): Often present in autoimmune thyroid disease.
Why It Matters: Detects autoimmune causes of thyroid dysfunction, which are common in women and may not always show up in basic thyroid tests.
6. Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy Vitamin D)
What It Measures: The major circulating form of vitamin D in the blood.
Why It Matters: Essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Low levels are associated with osteoporosis, depression, and a weakened immune response. Many women are deficient due to limited sun exposure or dietary intake.
7. Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C)
What It Measures: The average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months.
Why It Matters: Used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes. Elevated A1C levels indicate poor blood sugar control and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications.
8. Homocysteine
What It Measures: An amino acid in the blood that can indicate inflammation or B-vitamin deficiencies.
Why It Matters: High homocysteine levels are linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia. Elevated levels may also point to a need for folate, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12.
9. Estradiol (Estrogen)
What It Measures: The most potent form of estrogen in women.
Why It Matters: Estradiol plays a key role in the menstrual cycle, fertility, bone health, and mood. Imbalances can lead to irregular periods, menopausal symptoms, infertility, or bone loss.
10. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
What It Measures: A hormone produced by the adrenal glands and a precursor to both estrogen and testosterone.
Why It Matters: DHEA levels help evaluate adrenal function, energy levels, libido, and aging. Low levels may indicate adrenal fatigue or chronic stress, while high levels might suggest PCOS or other hormone disorders.
Fasting Not Required
