Blood Work Essentials for 35+ Women

Bloodwork Essentials for Women 35+

(Bring this checklist to your doctor or naturopath)

1. Hormone Panel (especially important for South Asians with early perimenopause)

• Estradiol (E2) → Checks estrogen levels
• Progesterone → Balances mood, periods, and fat storage
• Free & Total Testosterone → Supports muscle, energy, and libido
• DHEA-S → Stress & adrenal health
• FSH + LH → Key markers for perimenopause/menopause stage

2. Thyroid Function Panel (not just TSH)

• TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and anti-TPO antibodies
  (South Asians have higher rates of thyroid dysfunction — often missed when only TSH is tested.)

3. Metabolic Health Panel

• Fasting Glucose (ideal <5.0 mmol/L)
• Fasting Insulin (goal <8 µIU/mL; critical for detecting early insulin resistance)
• HbA1c (3-month blood sugar average)
• Lipid Panel (HDL, LDL, triglycerides)
• hs-CRP (marker of systemic inflammation)

4. Nutrient Deficiencies (common in South Asians)

• Vitamin D (essential for hormones, bones, immunity)
• Vitamin B12 (energy + nervous system health)
• Ferritin (iron storage; low levels affect energy & hair health)
• Magnesium & Zinc (important for metabolism and sleep)