Understanding Male and Female Hormone Testing
Hormones play pivotal roles in regulating various body functions. When imbalances occur, it affects everything from mood to metabolism. Male and female hormone testing is instrumental in diagnosing these imbalances and tailoring treatment plans.
Why Hormone Testing?
Hormonal fluctuations can wreak havoc. With testing, you can pinpoint imbalances, ensuring more effective treatment. Think of it as the body’s personal tuning, fine-tuning the ebb and flow of vital hormones.
Male Hormone Testing
Testosterone Levels
Crucial for muscle mass, bone density, and more, testing helps determine if levels are optimal. Too low? Fatigue and reduced libido might be knocking.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
These regulate testosterone production. Imbalances here could signify issues with the testicles or the pituitary gland.
Female Hormone Testing
Estrogen Levels
Vital for reproductive health, estrogen levels are often tested during fertility evaluations or to diagnose menopausal status.
Progesterone Levels
This hormone prepares the uterus for pregnancy. Too little? Pregnancy becomes difficult.
LH and FSH
Crucial for ovulation, high or low levels can indicate various conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Methods of Testing
Hormones can be gauged through blood tests, saliva tests, or even urine tests. However, which method to pick? Each has its merits. Blood tests, for instance, are standard and widely accessible.
Interpreting Results
Getting results is one thing, understanding them, another. Remember, reference ranges can differ based on the lab. Always consult with a medical professional for interpretation.
Conclusion: The Bigger Picture
Hormonal imbalances might seem small on the surface, but their effects ripple outward. Whether you’re feeling unexplainably fatigued, facing fertility issues, or just keen on understanding your body better, hormone tests can be the beacon. After all, knowledge is the first step to wellness, right?
Remember, always consult a healthcare professional before drawing any conclusions from tests. They’ll provide the best guidance tailored to individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Hormone testing provides essential insights into an individual’s hormonal balance. For men, it can reveal testosterone levels, which impact muscle mass, mood, and libido. For women, testing can determine estrogen and progesterone levels, affecting menstrual cycles, fertility, and overall well-being. Monitoring these levels can help diagnose various health conditions and guide treatments.
While there’s no specific age set for hormone testing, it’s commonly sought during significant hormonal shift periods. For women, it might be during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, or menopause. For men, middle age is a common time, given the gradual decrease in testosterone. However, anyone experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalances, regardless of age, should consider testing.
Hormone levels are most frequently tested using blood samples, but saliva and urine tests are also available. The choice of test often depends on which hormones are being evaluated. For instance, a blood test is standard for testing testosterone in men, while saliva tests might be used to measure cortisol levels in stress assessments.
Absolutely. Once imbalances are identified through testing, various treatments, including hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication, can be prescribed to restore hormonal balance. It’s crucial to consult with an endocrinologist or a medical professional specializing in hormonal health for tailored treatments.
- Mayo Clinic:
Topic: Overview and importance of hormone tests.
URL: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hormone-therapy/about/pac-20384757 - WebMD:
Topic: Information on various hormone tests.
URL: https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/hormone-tests - Endocrine Society:
Topic: Scientific updates on hormone research and testing.
URL: https://www.endocrine.org/topics - PubMed:
Topic: Research study on the effects of hormonal imbalances in men and women.
URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23815268/ - Harvard Health:
Topic: Hormone imbalances and their implications on overall health.
URL: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-lowdown-on-hormone-replacement-therapy
Our Experienced Practitioners:
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only as a caregiver but also as a teacher—empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their health. By educating and guiding them, I can help transform their lives far beyond the treatment room, creating lasting wellness that they can carry with them. – Dr. Tammy Lalonde”
Caring for people is my true passion and one of life’s greatest callings. With years of experience as both a Paramedic and Acupuncturist, I’ve supported patients through obvious and invisible injuries alike. I’ve been there during moments of deep crisis—whether delivering babies in cars parked roadside, providing care at 30,000 feet aboard a domestic flight, or flying emergency medevacs over the Arabian desert. Through these experiences, I’ve learned not only how to care for those in urgent need but also how to recognize the long-term impact that lifestyle, diet, and fitness can have on overall health.
As my career has evolved, so has my focus. I now concentrate on helping more people earlier, preventing minor concerns from escalating into more complex and costly illnesses. A key part of this shift is my role in leading our Hormone Health program, which empowers patients to address hormonal imbalances that affect energy, mood, and overall well-being. This program has far-reaching impacts, not only improving individual lives but also strengthening the health of entire communities. By helping people regain balance, we’re preventing chronic diseases and fostering long-term wellness. Through a combination of my background in emergency medicine and women’s health, I offer a unique, integrative approach. I draw on the strengths of oriental medicine, along with the expertise of top practitioners, to deliver care that restores balance to the body, mind, and spirit.
My academic journey has allowed me to seamlessly blend oriental medicine with Western healthcare, creating a holistic approach to patient care. My expertise lies in navigating high-stress, complex situations, and I have a deep passion for managing care and treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD—especially among Armed Forces and Emergency Services personnel. In addition to my extensive background, I have advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical, which enhances my ability to help patients achieve hormonal balance and long-term wellness. With a long-standing career spanning North America and the Middle East, I have been privileged to serve as a respected clinician, clinical educator, and fire and emergency medical dispatcher. I hold active licensure and registration with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA), the California Acupuncture Board, and the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA). Additionally, I have served as a Board Director with the Alberta Pain Society and am a current member of the CAA Competence Committee.
Education:
- Doctorate of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM), American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Traditional Chinese Medicine, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Master of Science (MS) – Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, cum laude, South Baylo University
- Bachelor of Science (BS) – Holistic Science, South Baylo University
- Diploma – Emergency Medical Technician (Paramedic), Augustana University
Licensure
- RAc – Registered Acupuncturist of the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)
- RH – Registered Herbalist of the Alberta Herbalists Association (AHA)
- LAc – Licensed Acupuncturist of the California Acupuncture Board
- Dipl.Ac – Diplomate of Acupuncture of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)
Dr.Ac Lalonde 🇬🇧
CEO, Acupuncture, Herbalism
“As a clinician and leader, I see myself not only...
Dr. McCarthy 🇬🇧
Dr. Lorraine McCarthy is a Naturopathic Doctor who has been serving the communities of Ottawa and Edmonton since her graduation from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2004. Her extensive background in Naturopathic Medicine has paved the way for diverse opportunities, including her involvement in the regulation of natural health products at Health Canada and her roles as a health advisor and physiology instructor at the Guanacaste Waldorf School in Costa Rica. Her current residence is in Rio Terrace, situated in the west end of Edmonton, where she lives with her husband and three children.
Dr. McCarthy’s utmost dedication lies in fostering the health and well-being of families. As a mother herself, she deeply understands the profound concern parents hold for the health of their children, and she shares the common desire of many parents to seek natural remedies and approaches. Dr. McCarthy also acknowledges the responsibility many individuals feel in providing care for their aging parents, which fuels her commitment to advocating for complementary health practices for seniors. Her extensive experience in administering Naturopathic Medicine to patients, as well as addressing the health issues of her own family, positions Dr. McCarthy to offer invaluable counsel and support.
Expanding beyond family health, Dr. McCarthy’s expertise extends to addressing a diverse range of health matters for individuals of all ages. Her particular areas of interest and proficiency encompass:
- Offering solutions for behavioural concerns in children
- Assisting seniors in achieving improved aging, increased energy, and overall well-being
- Implementing biotherapeutic drainage to reduce individuals’ toxic load
- Providing treatment for digestive ailments
- Utilizing the Bowen Technique to facilitate healing for pain and various injuries, including concussions
Dr. McCarthy’s legacy as a dedicated advocate for holistic wellness and an accomplished Naturopathic Doctor ensures that her patients receive comprehensive support and guidance towards optimal health.
Education:
- Naturopathic Doctor, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Licensure:
- Registered Naturopathic Doctor, College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta
Dr. McCarthy 🇬🇧
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Lorraine McCarthy is a Naturopathic Doctor who has been...
Sarah Hennings 🇬🇧
“Every patient deserves a healthcare provider who listens, investigates, and treats the root cause of their concerns with compassion and expertise.” – Sarah Hennings, NP
Sarah Hennings, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and graduate of Worldlink Medical’s advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) Workshop Series, lives by this mantra, which stems from her diverse healthcare background and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. With a unique blend of experience in primary care, mental health, occupational health, and various nursing specialties, Sarah brings a holistic and collaborative approach to addressing the health needs of her patients.
Graduating from Athabasca University in 2020 with a focus on primary care for all ages, Sarah’s passion for healthcare began long before. Her journey started in 2007 when she obtained a degree in healthcare administration from the University of Calgary, followed by a supervising role in the EMS division of Capital Health, where she honed her skills in patient transport and working with PFCC.
As a Registered Nurse since 2012, Sarah has gained extensive experience in medical/surgical nursing, palliative care, addiction and mental health, home care, and long-term care. Her commitment to education led her to teach supportive living sites across Alberta about proper antipsychotic use and dementia care. Most recently, Sarah worked in acute mental health, emergency, rural, and outpost nursing in various locations throughout British Columbia, further expanding her skill set.
Sarah’s experiences in OH&S in the oilfield and primary care have sparked her interest in addressing the unique barriers men face when accessing care services and the importance of women’s health and hormone balance. She believes in getting to the root of health problems through proper investigation and personalized treatment regimens, valuing collaborative teamwork and input from various disciplines.
To further enhance her skills, Sarah has completed additional education and certifications in hormone replacement therapy, addictions, cosmetic and migraine injections with Botox and fillers, pain therapy and joint injections, emergency nursing, and occupational health. Her advanced training in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) through Worldlink Medical’s Workshop Series has equipped her with the latest medical treatments in the prevention of chronic disease, with a hormone foundation. This knowledge allows Sarah to empower her patients with life-changing information and drive protocols and results based on academic journals and peer-reviewed content.
When not dedicating herself to her patients, Sarah is a proud mother of a 15-year-old son and an avid Edmonton Oilers fan. Together, they are learning to become pilots, showcasing Sarah’s love for travel and her commitment to personal growth alongside her professional development.
Education:
- Bachelor of Health Administration, Athabasca University
- Bachelor of Nursing, University of Calgary
- Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner Family of All Ages, Athabasca University
Licensure:
- NP – College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Sarah Hennings 🇬🇧
Nurse Practitioner
“Every patient deserves a healthcare provider who listens, investigates, and...
Allie Kusnierczyk 🇬🇧
Allie Kusnierczyk is a passionate and dedicated Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner with a deep commitment to holistic women’s health across the lifespan. She recognizes that menopause is often poorly screened and managed in primary care and is focused on bridging this gap through personalized, evidence-based care. Allie is driven by the privilege of helping women improve their quality of life, particularly in the areas of hormone health and mental well-being.
With over 8 years of experience across diverse healthcare settings—including obstetrics, psychiatry, adult critical care, and emergency medicine—Allie’s approach is both comprehensive and integrative. She specializes in women’s health, with a particular focus on BHRT, menopause management, and mental health, especially in relation to suicidality during menopause and the perinatal period. Allie understands the physical and mental toll that unmanaged menopause can have and is committed to providing the care and support women need to navigate these challenges.
At Red Leaf Wellness, Allie is dedicated to creating individualized care plans that empower women to take control of their health. She emphasizes long-term, trusting relationships, ensuring her patients feel heard, supported, and empowered to actively participate in their care.
Outside the clinic, Allie enjoys exploring the outdoors through hiking, canoeing, and backcountry camping with her husband and their dogs.
Education:
-
Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner Diploma – Western University, London, Ontario
-
Master of Nursing – Western University, London, Ontario
- Critical Care Nursing Certification – George Brown College
-
Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Minor in Psychology – Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario
Licensure:
-
Nurse Practitioner – College of Nurses of Ontario
- Nurse Practitioner – College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
Allie Kusnierczyk 🇬🇧
Nurse Practitioner
Allie Kusnierczyk is a passionate and dedicated Primary Health Care...
Jess Roberts 🇬🇧
“Effective patient care is built on trust, communication, and a commitment to seeing each patient as an individual with unique needs.” – Jess Roberts, Patient Care Coordinator
Jess Roberts embodies this philosophy. With several years of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse and a specialized focus in OBGYN care, Jess brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to her role as Patient Care Coordinator at Red Leaf Wellness. Her passion for holistic nutrition and women’s health has guided her work, from optimizing fertility to managing menopause. Jessica believes in blending traditional and complementary approaches to health, ensuring every patient receives personalized care that nurtures both body and mind.
Originally from England, Jess made Canada her home seven years ago. In addition to her professional pursuits, she is a devoted mother to her baby boy, Jackson, and a loving pet parent to her dog, Luna. Balancing her career and personal life has taught Jessica the importance of holistic well-being—a perspective she brings to her patient care coordination at Red Leaf Wellness.
When she’s not assisting patients, Jess enjoys exploring the latest research on holistic health and spending time outdoors with her family. Her dedication to supporting patients through their health journeys makes her a valuable part of the Red Leaf Wellness team.
Education
- Diploma in Practical Nursing
Sprott Shaw College, Kelowna
Graduated: May 2021
Licensing & Certifications
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
- Food Safety Certification
Jess Roberts 🇬🇧
Patient Care Coordinator
“Effective patient care is built on trust, communication, and a...
Dr. Amira Abdelaziz 🇬🇧 🇲🇦 🇹🇷
Empowering individuals to achieve optimal health is at the heart of Dr. Amira Abdelaziz’s practice. As an Ontario-based Naturopathic Doctor, she combines evidence-informed care with a personalized approach to address each patient’s unique health journey. Her expertise spans women’s health, metabolic conditions, hormonal balance, and mental wellness, tailoring solutions that restore vitality, balance, and resilience.
Dr. Abdelaziz believes in integrating modern naturopathic principles with traditional modalities, including Chinese medicine, herbal therapies, and orthomolecular science. Whether supporting patients through fertility challenges, managing chronic health concerns, or enhancing mental resilience, her approach ensures care is as individualized as it is effective.
With an educational background that includes a Doctor of Naturopathy from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, an MSc in Healthcare Management from the Arab Academy for Science, and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Cairo University, Dr. Abdelaziz brings a well-rounded perspective to her practice. Her earlier experiences in dentistry and healthcare quality management enrich her holistic understanding of patient care.
Fluent in Arabic, English, and proficient in Turkish, she connects with patients from diverse backgrounds, offering culturally sensitive, patient-centered care. Dr. Abdelaziz is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor under the College of Naturopaths of Ontario and an active member of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
In her personal time, she recharges by hiking, strength training, and capturing the beauty of nature through photography, practices that mirror her commitment to balance and well-being.
Education:
- Doctor of Naturopathy, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, 2022
- MSc in Healthcare Management and Logistics, Arab Academy for Science
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Cairo University
Licensure:
- Registered Naturopathic Doctor, College of Naturopaths of Ontario
- Member, Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors
- Member, Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors
Dr. Amira Abdelaziz 🇬🇧 🇲🇦 🇹🇷
Naturopathic Doctor
“True health is never one-size-fits-all. My mission is to guide...
