Diagnostic Studies: Endocrine Studies

LUTIENIZING HORMONE (LH) - This hormone is a messenger from the pituitary gland in the brain to the ovary. The ovary is stimulated to make prehormones that will be used to produce estradiol. LH also is the messenger to the ovary to ripen and release eggs (ovulation). This hormone can be detected by a urine test to determine the occurrence of ovulation. (Ovuquick, Q-test, First Response)

PROGESTERONE - A hormone produced and released by the corpus luteum of the ovary beginning at ovulation and continuing during the second half of the ovulatory cycle. It is necessary for the preparation of the lining of the uterus for the implantation of the fertilized egg. It is also critical for maintaining the pregnancy. Late in the first trimester of pregnancy, the placenta takes over the production of progesterone from the ovary.

PROLACTIN - A hormone produced and released by the pituitary gland that stimulates the milk secretion glands in the breast. Elevated levels in the non-pregnant woman can interfere with ovulation, implantation and early pregnancy.

THYROID STIMULATING HORMONE (TSH) A hormone produced and released by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid to produce and release its hormones.

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