Follicular stimulating hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and helps control the menstrual cycle. It also stimulates the ovaries to produce eggs. This test is helpful in the evaluation of polycystic ovarian syndrome and fertility problems.

Lutenising hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and helps control the menstrual cycle and helps to trigger the release of an egg from the ovary. LH levels normally change during the menstrual cycle and rise quickly just before ovulation. LH also helps the ovary to produce progesterone.

Oestradiol is one of the main oestrogens produced by the body. In females, oestradiol is mainly released from the ovaries (as well as the placenta during pregnancy). Oestradiol is important in the development of the female reproductive system (including uterus, vagina and external genitalia). In the menstrual cycle, oestradiol helps to mature and release the egg as well as thicken the lining of the uterus so a fertilised egg can implant.

Progesterone is produced by the corpus luteum (which forms in the ovary every month after an egg is released from the ovary) during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone prepares the lining of the uterus for potential pregnancy. If the female does not become pregnant, the corpus lutuem will break down and lower the progesterol level, which then initiates menstruation. Progesterone is also produced by the placenta and plays an important role during pregnancy. Progesterone level is tested 7 days before the start of a period to help check if ovulation has occured.

Thyroid stimulating hormone is involved in the regulation of thyroid hormone. It helps to tell how well the thyroid gland is working. High or low thyroid hormone can lead to many medical issues as well as problems with ovulation. Mild abnormalities in the TSH level lead to fertility problems and higher risk of miscarriage.