When Should You Test Hormone Levels for HRT? Timing Matters More Than You Think! | PYHP 170

In this episode of the Progress Your Health Podcast, Dr. Valorie and Dr. Maki tackle a common yet surprisingly confusing question: When is the best time to test your blood levels if you're using hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? Lisa, a fellow Washingtonian, submitted a thoughtful Ask the Doctor question about testing estradiol and FSH levels when using a trochee or transdermal cream. Should it be 4 to 6 hours after application? Or 10 to 12? And what do the results actually mean? We’ll break down: The ideal timing for blood draws depending on delivery method (trochee, patch,cream) How estrogen and progesterone absorb differently Why testing too soon — or too late — can skew your results How to interpret estradiol and FSH together (and why context is everything) Why the number isn’t the whole story — and how you feel matters most Plus, Dr. Valorie shares insights from her own hormone journey, including rhythmic dosing tips and lab timing mishaps.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.