Sex Hormones Profile (estrogens, androgens, progesterones)

Catalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.

What this laboratory test evaluates

The Sex Hormones Profile reports not only important markers and metabolites, but it also calculates the relationship of catechol estrogens (2OHE1, 4OHE1, and 16OHE1) representative of phase 1 detox as well as phase 2 activity of the COMT enzyme via methoxy estrogen ratios. Understanding how catechol estrogens break down as well as the rate of methylation, which renders potentially harmful metabolites inactive, can help mitigate risk and determine individualized treatment. Determining the preference for 5-alpha vs. 5-beta is desirable for optimal health. 5α-reductase converts testosterone into the metabolite 5α-DHT which is three times more potent than testosterone. Symptoms associated with higher androgen levels (thinning hair, acne, etc.) are often seen when levels of 5α-reductase and its corresponding metabolites are elevated. Additionally, the activity of aromatase (CYP19) is an integral part of the health of both men and women. Aromatase is more active in peripheral tissues increasing estrogens in males as well as the main source of estrogens in the postmenopausal female.

Determining the activity of aromatase can assist with understanding the root cause of lower testosterone as well as estrogen dominance. Progesterone is found in the urine in very small quantities due to its molecular structure making it difficult to obtain without sensitive LCMS testing methodologies. The Sex Hormones Profile measures the metabolites of progesterone, (5α-pregnanediol and 5β-pregnanediol), and also progesterone itself. This level will be of particular interest to practitioners prescribing oral progesterone as they may now track the metabolism of progesterone into its metabolite allopregnanolone, known to have GABA like effects for sleep and relief of anxiety.

Additional test information

The Sex Hormones Profile provides a broad overview of sex steroid hormones, their metabolites, and the efficiency of the enzymes that metabolize these hormones. This non-invasive test requires only 4 or 5 separate urine collections. Because the breakdown of hormones relies so heavily on processes within the liver, this test can also elucidate areas of interest as it pertains to conjugation of each metabolite. Additionally, testing urinary hormone metabolites can contribute to further understanding of endogenous hormone secretion, supplemental hormone utilization, enzyme activity, oxidative stress, and insight into whether your body is safely metabolizing hormones.

This profile is a consideration for patients with concerns that are particular to sex hormones and/or monitoring for harmful metabolites due to the influence of HRT/BHRT.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Urine
• Fasting: No
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should arrive 5 to 7 days after the lab receives samples.

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.