VEI Check · Hormone

Looking for the cause of menopausal symptoms:
hormone testing

Hormone testing measures testosterone, female hormones, thyroid hormones and other hormones in the blood to look for the cause of symptoms such as fatigue, low motivation, hot flashes and menstrual changes. Thyroid disease, anemia, low mood and lack of sleep can cause symptoms similar to menopause or age-related testosterone decline, so we do not rely on one number alone. At VEI Clinic, an internal medicine specialist listens to your symptoms and selects the tests you need.

VEI Clinic, Gangnam — VEI Check · Hormone

Age-Related Testosterone Decline and Testing

Testosterone gradually begins to decline in the late 30s. We consider age-related low testosterone when reduced sex drive, fewer morning erections, fatigue, low motivation, loss of muscle and increased abdominal fat occur together.

Testosterone is highest in the morning and varies considerably throughout the day, so we draw blood in the morning. If the result is low, we confirm it on a different day.

Menopause and Female Hormone Testing

Around menopause, periods can become irregular, and hot flashes, sweating, difficulty falling asleep and mood changes may occur. Estradiol, a female hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels help us assess changes in ovarian function.

During the transition to menopause, levels can vary greatly from month to month. We do not determine menopause from one result alone, but consider age, menstrual changes and symptoms together.

Other Tests We May Include

Thyroid function (TSH and free T4): other possible causes of fatigue, weight changes and feeling hot
Anemia and iron levels
Blood glucose, cholesterol and liver function
Adrenal hormones such as cortisol, if needed

Before Your Test

For testosterone testing, we recommend a blood draw between 7 and 11 a.m.
If you still have periods, days 2 to 5 after your period starts are preferred for female hormone testing
Tell us in advance if you take hormone medication, birth control pills, thyroid medication or high-dose biotin
Fast for at least 8 hours if blood glucose and cholesterol are also being checked

Care Based on Your Results

Based on your results and symptoms, we start with guidance on sleep, exercise and weight management. Women with menopausal symptoms can discuss placenta injections approved for that purpose. If we determine that hormone therapy is needed, we recommend gynecology or urology care.

The VEI Clinic Approach

An internal medicine specialist first reviews your symptoms and medications and orders only the tests you need. If symptoms persist even when levels are within the reference range, we also look for other causes.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

When should I have a testosterone test?

Testosterone is highest in the morning, so we recommend drawing blood between 7 and 11 a.m. If one result is low, we confirm it on a different day.

Can female hormone testing tell whether I have reached menopause?

It can help, but levels vary widely during the transition, so one result is not conclusive. We consider age, menstrual changes and symptoms together.

Do menopausal symptoms always require hormone therapy?

This depends on the severity and cause of your symptoms. Some improve with lifestyle changes. If hormone therapy is needed, we recommend gynecology or urology care.

When will my results be ready?

Results usually take 1 to 5 business days, depending on the tests. We explain them at your consultation once they are available.