Doctors Caution Against Costly Hormone Testing Frenzy

The hormone testing market has seen a significant boom since the pandemic, with the global endocrine testing market projected to grow at a 7.7% annual rate from 2024 to 2030. However, doctors are cautioning against the growing trend of unnecessary and costly hormone testing.

According to experts, many women, particularly those in perimenopause, are being targeted by "meno-profiteering" and "meno-washing" tactics, where companies sell expensive hormone panels that provide little useful information. Dr. Jan Shifren of Massachusetts General Hospital says she often sees patients who have spent hundreds on these tests, only to have her disregard the results.

Doctors advise that for most women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, hormone testing is unnecessary. "In general, I try to discourage people [from testing] as much as possible," says Dr. Mary Jane Minkin of Yale. Instead, she recommends focusing on treating the symptoms directly.

The experts warn that over-the-counter hormone tests, whether through commercial labs or telehealth companies, can be inaccurate and lead to self-treatment with unregulated supplements. They emphasize the importance of discussing any hormonal concerns with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.