Pregnancy and Contraception Hormonal Panel (Serum/Plasma)
This blood test measures key hormones to assess fertility, pregnancy readiness, and contraceptive effectiveness. It helps track hormonal balance before conception, during pregnancy, or while using hormonal birth control.
["This panel supports reproductive health decisions by monitoring critical hormone levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86642-6
- Short code
- PREGNANCYANDCONTRACEPTIONPANEL
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- fpar
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may recommend this test if you’re trying to conceive, planning pregnancy, or using hormonal birth control. It helps evaluate whether your hormone levels are optimal for fertility, pregnancy, or contraception. Some women also get it to check for hormonal imbalances that might affect menstrual cycles or fertility.
What Hormones Are Measured?
The panel typically includes tests for hormones like estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and possibly others depending on the specific version. These hormones play key roles in ovulation, menstrual cycles, and pregnancy.
When to Expect Results
Results usually arrive within 3–5 business days after your blood sample is drawn. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you, including any follow-up steps if needed.
What the Results Mean
Hormone levels can vary based on your cycle phase, age, and health. For example, high or low FSH/LH might indicate issues with ovulation, while elevated progesterone could signal pregnancy or hormonal birth control use. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal hormone levels can reveal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or hormonal contraceptive ineffectiveness. Early detection allows for timely adjustments, such as changing birth control methods or addressing fertility concerns.
Short name
Hormone Panel for Pregnancy & Birth Control
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What if my results are out of range?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy