Hair Loss Profile (Female)
A comprehensive blood test for women investigating hair thinning or shedding, covering iron, thyroid, hormones, vitamins and full blood count to find treatable causes.
Blood Tests, Female Health- Description
- Associated Conditions
- Uses of This Test
- Why This Test?
Hair thinning and shedding in women can be distressing, and often has an underlying medical cause that can be treated. Low iron, thyroid imbalance, hormonal changes and vitamin deficiencies are among the most common contributors.
This profile assesses all of these areas in a single test, including ferritin and iron status, thyroid function, female hormones, vitamin D, B12, folate and zinc, along with a full blood count plus liver and kidney function for complete clinical context.
It is the female counterpart to our Male Hair Loss Profile and gives your clinician the information needed to identify reversible causes and guide the right treatment.
Telogen Effluvium (stress or illness)
Sudden, diffuse shedding triggered by stress, illness, childbirth or crash dieting, often reversible once the cause is addressed.
Thyroid-related Hair Loss
Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can cause noticeable thinning.
Iron Deficiency Hair Loss
Low ferritin is one of the most common and treatable causes of hair shedding in women.
Hormonal and Nutrient Imbalance
Hormonal shifts around the menopause, along with low vitamin D, B12, folate or zinc, can all contribute to thinning hair.
- Investigate hair thinning or excessive shedding
- Identify reversible medical causes such as low iron or thyroid imbalance
- Investigate shedding after illness, stress or childbirth
- Assess hormonal and nutritional contributors
- Monitor response to treatment
Hair loss in women often has an underlying medical cause that can be identified and treated. Iron deficiency, thyroid imbalance, hormonal changes and low vitamin levels are among the most common contributors, and many are reversible once addressed.
This comprehensive female hair loss profile assesses the areas most likely to affect hair growth, including:
- Iron and ferritin status
- Thyroid function
- Female hormones (oestradiol, FSH and LH)
- Vitamin D, B12, folate and zinc
- A full blood count plus liver and kidney function
It is the female counterpart to our Male Hair Loss Profile and provides the clinical picture needed to guide the right treatment approach.
What We Test
Biomarkers analysed by accredited UK laboratories
Biomarkers Tested
Female Hormones
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Pituitary hormone that reflects ovarian activity and rises around the menopause.
- Luteinising Hormone (LH)
Pituitary hormone involved in the menstrual cycle and ovarian function.
- Oestradiol (E2)
The main female oestrogen; changing levels can affect the hair growth cycle.
Hormones that influence hair growth and shedding in women.
Thyroid
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Pituitary thyroid signal and an early indicator of thyroid imbalance.
- Free T4 (thyroxine)
The main circulating thyroid hormone.
Thyroid function commonly affects hair density and texture.
Iron Status
- Ferritin
Stored iron and the most reliable marker of the iron deficiency that commonly causes hair shedding.
Iron deficiency is a leading cause of hair shedding in women.
Vitamins & Minerals
- Vitamin D (25-OH)
Vitamin D status, which supports the hair growth cycle.
- Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 level; deficiency can contribute to hair thinning.
- Folate
Folate status, important for healthy cell turnover.
- Zinc (Serum)
An essential mineral for hair follicle health.
Vitamin and mineral levels that support healthy hair growth.
Full Blood Count
- Haemoglobin
Oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
- Haematocrit
The proportion of the blood made up of red cells.
- Red Cell Count
Total number of red blood cells.
- White Cell Count
Total number of white blood cells.
- Platelet Count
Total number of platelets.
- Mean Cell Volume (MCV)
Average size of red blood cells.
- Mean Cell Haemoglobin (MCH)
Average amount of haemoglobin per red cell.
- Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)
Average haemoglobin concentration in red cells.
- Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)
Average size of platelets.
- Red Cell Distribution Width
Variation in red cell size.
Blood health relevant to scalp and follicle nutrition.
Liver & Kidney Function
- Alanine Transaminase (ALT)
Liver enzyme that can rise with liver stress.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
Liver enzyme involved in injury and metabolism.
- Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
Liver enzyme sensitive to alcohol and bile flow.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
Bone and bile-flow enzyme.
- Albumin
Major liver protein reflecting nutrition and synthesis.
- Globulin
Calculated protein group that includes antibodies.
- Total Protein
Total blood protein.
- Total Bilirubin
Bile pigment processed by the liver.
- Urea
Waste product cleared by the kidneys.
- Creatinine
Muscle waste product used to estimate kidney function.
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
A key calculated marker of kidney function.
General organ function for full clinical context.
Home Finger-Prick Testing
Enjoy the convenience of testing from home with a simple, easy-to-use kit delivered straight to your door. Your kit includes clear instructions, sterile equipment, and a prepaid return envelope for sending your sample to the laboratory.
This option is ideal if you prefer flexibility, have a busy schedule, or want to check your health privately without visiting the clinic.
Results are processed by accredited laboratories, giving you the same clinical accuracy as an in-clinic test. Expect results within 72 hours!
Why Use This Service:
Perfect for busy schedules
Results within 72 hours
Delivery across the UK
Private & discreet
Avoid travelling to Preston
Cost effective alternative
Taking Charge Of Your Own Health Has Never Been Easier
Worried about your wellbeing?
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or other issues, a comprehensive blood test may be the key to discovering potential underlying health problems.
Need to monitor a health condition?
Blood tests offer essential insights into various aspects of your health, from detecting deficiencies to evaluating immune functions.
Enhancing Performance and Fitness?
Whether you’re training for a sport or keeping track of your fitness progress, a blood test serves as an excellent foundation for your performance improvement journey.
All Our Tests Include:
No GP Referral
Order directly - no waiting for appointments
Fast Results
Detailed analysis within 72 hours
Laboratory Commentary
Expert interpretation of your results included
Secure & Confidential
Discreet service and consultations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
How much do private blood tests cost in Preston?
Prices start at £39 for a single-marker test such as our Cholesterol/Lipid Profile and rise to £349 for the Allergy Complete 295-allergen panel. Most comprehensive health panels cost between £100 and £180, and every result includes a doctor’s commentary at no extra charge.
What is the difference between a home finger-prick test and a clinic appointment?
Both use exactly the same accredited UK laboratories. A home kit suits busy schedules and simpler tests, while a clinic appointment with our phlebotomist is better for comprehensive panels, larger samples, or anyone who would rather not take their own sample. If you are not sure which to choose, call us and we will point you to the right option.
Where is the clinic?
You will find us at 54 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3JP, with free parking on site. We see patients from Longridge, Preston, the Ribble Valley and across Lancashire.
Are weekend appointments available?
Yes. We are open 10am to 6pm on Saturdays, with blood test appointments available by arrangement, so you can fit your test around work and family.
Are same-day appointments available?
Often, yes. If you need a blood test today, call us on 01772 439054 and we will do our best to fit you in the same day.
What if my results need explaining?
Every result comes with a doctor’s commentary written in plain English, so you understand what your numbers mean. If anything is unclear or needs a follow-up, our pharmacists are happy to talk you through it.
What if I’m on the pill, coil or HRT?
Just tell us at booking. Hormonal contraception and HRT affect some results, and our commentary will interpret your numbers in that context so they actually make sense for you.
What can an AMH test tell me?
AMH is the single best blood marker of your ovarian reserve, a useful indicator if you’re planning for a family, considering egg freezing, or simply want to understand your fertility. It can be tested on any day of your cycle.
When in my cycle should I take a hormone test?
It depends on the test. AMH can be done on any day. Baseline hormones (FSH, LH, oestradiol) are usually taken on days 2 to 5. Progesterone is taken around day 21 (about 7 days before your next period is due). We’ll guide you on timing when you book.
When is the best time to take a testosterone test?
Ideally in the morning (before 11am), when testosterone is at its natural peak. We’ll guide you on timing when you book.
What’s the best test if I think my testosterone is low?
Testosterone Plus, which measures total and free testosterone plus SHBG and the Free Androgen Index. Total testosterone alone misses many men whose symptoms come from low free testosterone, so getting the complete picture matters.
Do I need an allergy test or intolerance test?
If your reactions are fast (hives, swelling, wheezing), the 295-allergen IgE panel is the right starting point. If they’re slower and gut-based (bloating, cramps, fatigue), a targeted intolerance or coeliac profile may suit you better. Not sure? Call us and we’ll guide you.
What does the 295-allergen panel test for?
Foods, pollens, animals, dust mites, moulds, insect venoms, drugs and contact allergens (all from a single blood sample). The full allergen list can be found on the product page.
How accurate are home finger-prick tests compared to clinic tests?
Our home finger-prick tests use the same accredited laboratories as our clinic tests. While clinic tests allow for more comprehensive panels, home tests are highly accurate for the parameters they measure.
Do I need a GP referral for a blood test?
No, you don’t need a GP referral. You can book directly with us for any blood test. We are a private clinic offering direct access to comprehensive blood testing.
How old do I have to be to have a blood test?
We will only draw blood from those aged 16 and above due to legal requirements.
How long does it take for the blood test results to come?
If you have used our clinic to complete a blood test, we send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed. If you have used a home test kit, then once your sample has been sent off the lab will analyse your sample. Results are usually received within 72 hours.
How do I perform the home finger-prick test?
Your home blood test kit will contain easy-to-follow instructions on how to take your own finger blood sample. If you have any concerns or questions prior to using the kit, please contact our phlebotomists who will be happy to assist.
How do I prepare for a blood test?
There is no preparation required prior to taking any of the blood tests. Please simply remember to stay hydrated prior to your appointment. This is to help your veins dilate better to enable a quick and efficient blood sample to be taken and reduce the risks of feeling faint following your blood test.
Please inform the phlebotomist before your test if you are currently taking any blood thinning medication.
Should I fast before my blood test?
Fasting is not required for most blood tests. However, if your profile includes cholesterol tests and you’ve previously had high levels, consider fasting for 8 hours beforehand. While not essential, fasting can provide more accurate results.
Note: Fasting means abstaining from any food and drink, except for water.