I’m going to my PCP today. I’m a woman. What tests should I do to know about my internal health?

For women interested in assessing internal health, several essential tests can provide insight into various aspects of your health and help detect potential issues early. Here are some key tests to consider, based on insights shared by experts on the Huberman Lab:

1. Hormone Panels: It's crucial to monitor hormone levels such as estrogen, progesterone, IGF-1, thyroid hormones, and cortisol. Understanding these can help reveal insights into mood, energy, and metabolic health. For women, testing should be aligned with your menstrual cycle to ensure consistent results, usually aiming for the mid-follicular or mid-luteal phase 1.

2. Lipid Profiles: Regular tests for cholesterol and LDL levels are important for cardiovascular health. Including ApoB can offer additional insight into heart disease risk 1.

3. Thyroid Function Tests: Since thyroid issues are more prevalent in women, assessing thyroid hormones (TSH, Free T4, Free T3) can help in diagnosing issues like hypothyroidism that might contribute to symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain 2.

4. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG): This test can indicate how much testosterone is available for your body to use, crucial for identifying hormonal imbalances 1.

5. Inflammatory and Metabolic Markers: Tests for markers like high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and fasting insulin can provide insights into inflammation and metabolic health, important for preventing chronic diseases 2.

It can be beneficial to discuss these tests with your primary care provider, who can help tailor the recommendations based on your health history and personal needs. Additionally, Dr. Mary Claire Haver highlights the need for more awareness and research into women's health, underscoring the importance of comprehensive health evaluations 3.