Mastering Lab Values: A Vital Handbook for Women in Menopause & Perimenopause | Dr. Susan

Sometimes we have to be our own advocate and ask for the tests that we need since many doctors don't offer very high-level labs that can be critical to maximizing your healthspan and helping you to feel great. Today I'm going to go through a real patient's lab panel and show you what we look for in our office during a hormone consultation.

I'll be discussing the difference between "reference ranges" and "optimal ranges" so that you can interpret your own lab values with a critical eye and make sure that you're not missing any opportunities for wellness.

My list of labs will be available for you to order or keep as a reference. In this way, you'll be able to request the same tests from your doctor and get all the vital information you need to get started!

If you do get these labs done, we can also discuss them with you virtually -or in person if you find your way to Houston!

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[litapaparoni]

Very informative, would it be possible to have the summary of all the recommended lab tests you flagged? thank you!!!!'

[chrisbarnes]

This was extremely informative. I’ll listen again and take notes.

[ScrappinwithSabrina]

This was so informative, thank you Dr. Susan! This is the most comprehensive overview I’ve heard.

[sheilakihlthau]

This was so informative and you explain things so well. Thank you!

[natashyas]

This is so helpful. Can you do one for pre-menopausal women as well?

[lb]

Amazing video. It is very informative and helpful. Thank you for producing and sharing this content.

[litapaparoni]

Can you please let us know which supplements you take?

[pamosRN]

Thank you soooo much. I get pellets and my doctor won’t even discuss hormone labs. He said just go by how you feel. This time I’m struggling with agitation, anger, and anxiety. I do my own labs. Total testosterone was 167! I had a really difficult time finding anything online with recommended levels for HTR. It has been running about 110-127.

[robinq]

My understanding is that as BG & Insulin resistance improves the life of the RBC's may also live longer which may result in a slight rise of the HBA1C %.
I really appreciate the great info on lab work - Thanks, I will show my notes to my Dr.

[drsusan]

Units of measurement make it very confusing, especially in different countries to compare apples to apples so you have to compare to the ranges that your doctor and your lab uses

[cookiemooshi]

Wonderful info.
Will share with some women in my life.

[christinemack]

Extremely beneficial and empowering, thank you!

[ShannonTeaches]

Thank you so much for this information.

[queen-b]

I’ve mentioned this before but it never seems to get an answer.
You speak to total testosterone but what about free testosterone? Your total can be high but free T be in optimal range. Free T is what is available for your body to use. Can you please educate us on this topic?

[ericaclark]

I follow you and think you’re amazing. I’m looking for a doctor similar to you. I have been two years past my period looking for a doctor in or near in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota.

[angm]

My FSH was 236 LH was 136 started estrogen patch .025 and levels went to FSH 126 and LH is 103. should I up my estrogen patch since it is still high? Do I need other testing since my FSH And LH are high like maybe a pituitary test?

[pennynichols]

Do you recommend testing for dihydrotestosterone to be sure your testosterone therapy is not converting to this?

[carolwong]

There are many telemedicine providers for treatment of menopause. They are willing to order labs and hormones. Do I not need an examine by the provider before taking hormones?

[Juliet]

Excellent Information, Thank You!!!! So Helpful!!!

[suzannehosticka]

This was so informative. Thank you. I have been trying HRT for about two years off and on. Finally felt good on the lowest patch, 0.025 with 100 progesterone, however if I try to increase it, I gain weight, my boobs get bigger, don’t sleep as well, and I get irritable. I’ve heard that the benefits of estrogen on osteoporosis, brain and cardiovascular health don’t help at such a low dose, also I suspected the progesterone was making my LDL less responsive to my statin, which I need for hereditary high LDL. Was considering an IUD for that if it is an issue. Is it possible I would have benefits from the estrogen at such a low dose if it’s where I feel best? My GP said there are just some people who just can’t tolerate it. Is that true? I’m healthy otherwise, exercise regularly, eat well, sleep as well as I can etc. I really want to take HRT, my GP is also helpful with the on, off on, up, lowering trials over the last 2 years but I can’t seem to get it sorted out. Thanks for any feedback.