Bloodwork 101

Posted on by Suzanne Laughlin

Understanding Your Labs in Perimenopause

The Wake Her Up community was created by women who are taking their health back into their own hands. We are not doctors or medical professionals—just women learning to understand our own bodies and reclaim the power to heal ourselves.

One of our community leaders, Suzanne Laughlin, has spent over two years researching lab work and helping thousands of women make sense of their blood results. She has put together this powerful guide so you can walk into your doctor’s office with knowledge, clarity, and confidence.

👉 Join the Wake Her Up community HERE
👉 Find a provider who will optimize your hormones HERE

Why Your Labs Matter

If you’re experiencing symptoms of perimenopause and your doctor refuses to run labs—or tells you everything looks “normal”—you need a provider who will work with you until you feel good, not just “within range.”

Recommended Labs for Perimenopause

Here’s a breakdown of labs to ask for, and why they matter:

General Health

  • CBC (Complete Blood Count): Checks red/white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets.

  • CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel): Measures glucose, calcium, protein, liver enzymes, electrolytes, kidney health.

Reproductive & Hormonal Health

  • LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Involved in ovulation, puberty, and pregnancy.

  • FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): Affects ovarian function and reproduction.

  • E1, E2, E3 (Estrogens): Different types of estrogen that impact fertility, energy, and tissue health.

  • Progesterone: Vital for balance, sleep, and mood.

  • Total & Free Testosterone: Supports libido, energy, and muscle strength.

  • SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin): Determines how much testosterone is actually available.

  • DHEA: A precursor hormone that helps produce estrogen and testosterone.

  • DHT: A derivative of testosterone with key roles in tissue function.

Thyroid Health (Complete Thyroid Panel)

  • TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3: Core thyroid function markers.

  • TPO & TGA Antibodies: Reveal autoimmune thyroid issues.

Other Vital Markers

  • Vitamin D: A hormone critical for immune health, mood, and bone strength.

  • Vitamin B12: Supports nerve function, DNA production, and energy.

  • Magnesium: Involved in 300+ body functions.

  • Lipids (Cholesterol & Triglycerides): Heart and metabolic health.

  • Prolactin: Pituitary hormone that can affect cycles and mood.

The Bottom Line

✨ This guide is not medical advice. It’s created by women, for women—so you can walk into your doctor’s office armed with knowledge and self-trust.

✨ You are not crazy. Your symptoms are real.

✨ You deserve to feel awake, alive, and fully yourself.

Suzanne Laughlin