I asked my doctor if I could have my hormonal levels checked, she said no. I've heard of other women having this done recently. Of course, again, I didn't ask why because of the response I got back. Basically, she wouldn't bother with doing that kind of test, she said there would be no point in getting my hormones checked. I'm 38 for crying out loud and think my hormones are out of whack. I had a baby 8 months ago, maybe this is why she didn't see the point? I guess I really have to learn to ask more questions. Any feedback?

By Kay on Monday, May 31, 2004 - 09:59 pm:

My ob/gyn has been checking my estrogen level since I was your age. I'm not sure if this is what you were seeking. Since I had my uterus removed at age 32, my doc has been periodically checking me so that he can make sure my estrogen levels don't need adjusting.

I work for a physician association, and the biggest complaint we get is from patients who don't really get answers they're seeking from their doctors.

You have to be very aggressive in taking part in your own healthcare. Go in with a list of questions, and don't leave until you receive answers. If you have concerns about your health, call your doctor back and tell her that you did not get all the information you needed. Ask her, and if she does not give an answer that makes you feel confident in her ability to be a part of your healthcare, then find another physician.

By Amecmom on Monday, May 31, 2004 - 10:27 pm:

Are you on any birth control? I wanted to have mine checked, and because I was on the pill, the results would not have been reliable. Also, it takes more than 8 months for your hormones to go back in balance after having a baby, especially if you nursed.
I still would have asked the OB for her reasoning, however. Hope everything turns out ok.

By Ladypeacek on Tuesday, June 1, 2004 - 06:20 am:

I agree that the reason is probably because they really would be useless since you recently had a baby! Those tests take some time to cmoe back and then even if they were out of whack, if you are breastfeeding they couldn't do anything about it anyways. I was told it can take up to a year after having a baby before your hormones are right again. I think my ds was almost 16 months before i stopped feeling out of whack! I wouldn't worry about the dr not giving you the tests just ask more questions next time!

By Ginny~moderator on Tuesday, June 1, 2004 - 06:31 am:

Yes, you really have to learn to ask more questions. And your doctor should have explained why she did not think it useful to check your hormones. A doctor should always give a reason for a decision. Doctors who don't give reasons or explanations are doctors I don't go back to.

By Emily7 on Tuesday, June 1, 2004 - 08:58 am:

I think she should of explained why as well. I also feel it is time to find a new Doctor when they stop including me in their plan for me. You may want to see if there is a Health Fair in your area soon. Its cheaper to get you blood work done, they check what you ask, & they forward the results to your Doctor.

By Momaroze on Friday, June 4, 2004 - 10:46 am:

Thanks everyone. I will ask for the reason. It is likely because I just had a baby not long ago BUT I will certainly ask. I am not on birth control, no need to be. I also did not realise how long it will take for my body (hormones) to return to it's normal state. Precisely why I am probably feeling so up and down these days!