Why might I need blood tests?

Blood tests can often tell us a lot about your health, including hormone levels and other markers of health. While blood tests are not necessary to diagnose the perimenopause and menopause for most women, Newson Health may measure hormone levels to guide treatment.

Other blood tests may be recommended as part of a general ‘well woman’ check or to target specific systems. They can be a useful way to check for other conditions that can mimic or worsen the symptoms of menopause, and can help us advise you on optimising your future health.

Click here to find out more about blood test packages offered at Newson Health

Which blood tests are right for me?

Your clinician will discuss with you which blood testing profile is suitable for you depending on your symptoms and medical history, as well as your preferences.

You can find out more about the different blood tests offered by Newson Health here

Where do I have a blood test?

We currently offer blood tests at a number of locations across the UK. Our team can advise on the nearest location for you to go for you. Please note that there will be a fee payable direct to the centre where your blood sample is taken.

How your blood is taken

You may have seen some companies offering finger prick blood testing which can seem attractive due to cost and convenience.  However, finger prick tests have not been shown to be reliable, especially for measuring levels of oestradiol (the main type of oestrogen) in the blood. That’s why at Newson Health we take blood from a vein.

Tips on preparing for your blood tests

• Being well-hydrated makes it easier for the clinician to find a vein, so make sure you drink plenty of water in the hours before your test.
• There is no requirement to fast before your blood tests.
• Apply/take your HRT as normal on the day of your blood test unless advised otherwise by your clinician. The blood sample is usually taken from the crease of your elbow, so if you use HRT gels or creams, avoid touching this area after applying your HRT on the day of the test. This reduces the risk of a contaminated sample which would then not reflect the actual levels of hormones in your blood. If you normally apply your oestrogen or testosterone on your arm, apply it instead to your leg that day and wash your hands carefully afterwards.

I’m still having periods. Is there an optimum time of the month to have my blood tests?

The timing of your blood test is not usually important. However, if as part of your blood test you are having an oestradiol level and you are still having regular periods, you should avoid having your blood test done mid-cycle if possible. This is because this may give an unrepresentative level of oestradiol, the main type of oestrogen your body produces. Instead, try to book to a test to coincide with your period, or just after.

On the day

Your appointment should take about 15 minutes.

I don’t like needles. What should I do?

It’s common to feel nervous about needles and having blood taken.

Tell your clinician beforehand, and they can answer any questions you have and make you as comfortable as possible.

When will I receive my results?

After processing, the results of your tests will be sent by the laboratory to your clinician at Newson Health and your clinician will share the results of your blood tests and any relevant comments with you by email.

This usually takes up to 10 days, but if you haven’t heard anything two weeks after your blood test, please contact us to ensure the results have been received. However, if you have a follow up appointment with your clinician soon after your blood tests, your clinician will discuss the results with you during your consultation then rather than by email.