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IMULAB

Women Sports Performance Complete

Women Sports Performance Complete

£215.10 GBP
£239.00 GBP £215.10 GBP
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  • Venous blood sample at a Superdrug Clinic  +£35.00

    Visit one of Superdrug's clinics across the UK where a healthcare professional will take your sample from a vein in your arm. We’ll email you instructions on how to book after we’ve processed your order.

  • Book at home venous blood sample with a nurse  +£59.00

    Book an appointment for a nurse to visit your home and take your blood sample from a vein your arm. 

  • Arrange own venous sample with a healthcare professional  Free

    Make an appointment with a healthcare professional of your choice to have your venous blood sample taken. You will be responsible for arranging your appointment and any additional fees.

✅ Results expected within 4 working days

Our Complete Sports Performance Blood Test for Women is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of your health and fitness profile, offering valuable insights into the key biomarkers that impact your performance, recovery, and overall well-being.

Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, biohacker, or simply someone striving to optimise your health, this test is your go-to solution. It delves deep into areas such as hormone health, thyroid function, and sports nutrition, giving you the information you need to fine-tune your diet, training, and recovery strategies.

This advanced test examines a wide range of health markers, including adrenal hormones, cholesterol status, inflammation levels, thyroid function, iron status, kidney health, liver health, and essential vitamins and minerals. By analysing these key biomarkers, you'll gain a clearer picture of how your body is responding to physical stress, dietary intake, and training demands.

Understanding your hormone profile, including markers like testosterone and oestradiol, can reveal whether hormonal imbalances are affecting your energy levels, recovery rates, or muscle development. Assessing inflammation markers and vitamin levels helps identify potential deficiencies that may hinder your progress or lead to fatigue and slow recovery.

The insights from this test empower you to make informed decisions about your nutrition, supplementation, and fitness plans, allowing you to address any imbalances and optimise your body’s performance potential.

Visit one of our partner clinics at Superdrug across the UK, or arrange for a nurse or healthcare professional to collect a venous sample in the comfort of your home.

Results are securely delivered through our online patient portal, typically within two working days from the time your sample is received at our laboratory.

Take charge of your health, performance, and well-being with our Complete Sports Performance Blood Test for Women. Order today and unlock the knowledge you need to reach your peak potential.

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Red blood cells

Haemoglobin

Haemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to different tissues and organs throughout the body. It also plays a crucial role in carrying carbon dioxide, a waste product, from the tissues back to the lungs for elimination. The production and maintenance of healthy haemoglobin levels are essential for overall health and well-being.

When haemoglobin levels are low, a condition known as anemia can occur. Anemia can have various causes, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, blood loss, or impaired production of red blood cells. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. It can lead to a reduced capacity to deliver oxygen to the body's tissues, affecting overall energy levels and organ function.

On the other hand, high levels of haemoglobin, referred to as polycythemia, can occur in certain conditions such as lung disease, congenital heart defects, or bone marrow disorders. Polycythemia can make the blood thicker and more viscous, which may lead to complications like blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, and increased blood pressure.

Maintaining optimal haemoglobin levels is important for proper oxygen transport and overall health. If you suspect any abnormalities in your haemoglobin levels, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Haematocrit

HCT (haematocrit) is a blood test that measures the percentage of the total blood volume that is composed of red blood cells. It provides information on the number and size of red blood cells in the body and can help diagnose conditions related to red blood cells, such as anemia.

Red cell count

The Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count is a test that evaluates the quantity of red blood cells present in the blood. Red blood cells play a crucial role in transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues, where it is utilized for various energy processes like respiration and movement. They also carry carbon dioxide from the body tissues back to the lungs, where it can be removed from the body through exhalation.

MCV

MCV (mean corpuscular volume) is a measurement that reflects the average size of red blood cells in a sample of blood. This value is important because it can indicate how much oxygen your cells are likely to be transporting around the body.

MCHC

MCHC (mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration) measures the average concentration of haemoglobin in a given volume of red blood cells. Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen and carries it from the lungs to the body's tissues.

MCH

MCH stands for mean corpuscular haemoglobin and measures the average amount of haemoglobin in each of your red blood cells.

RDW

RDW, or red blood cell distribution width, is a measure of the variation in size and shape of your red blood cells. It assesses whether the red blood cells are mostly the same size and shape, or whether there is a significant variation. Normally, red blood cells are uniform in size and shape, but certain blood disorders can cause abnormalities in the size and shape of red blood cells. The RDW test measures the difference in size between the largest and smallest red blood cell in a sample.

White blood cells

White cell count

The White Blood Cell (WBC) Count is a test that measures the quantity of white blood cells in the bloodstream. White blood cells are crucial to the immune system and play a vital role in defending the body against infections caused by harmful germs and bacteria. In addition, they produce antibodies and memory cells that can protect the body from future infections by the same germ.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are the predominant type of white blood cell in the human body that assist in combating infections. They are the primary defence mechanism that detects and destroys pathogens before other types of white blood cells are activated. If the number of neutrophils in the blood is reduced, the body becomes more susceptible to illnesses and infections.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that are involved in combating parasitic infections and regulating inflammation at infected sites. They also contribute to the body's response to allergies and asthma.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are a group of white blood cells that play a crucial role in the body's immune system by fighting against bacterial and viral infections. They are specialized white blood cells that can recognize and differentiate between different foreign organisms that invade the body. Apart from their role in fighting infections, they also produce antibodies and memory cells that can help prevent future infections from the same germ. Lymphocytes consist of T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells.

Basophils

Basophils are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune system. They are responsible for protecting the body against bacterial and parasitic infections, as well as playing a role in allergic reactions. When an allergen enters the body, basophils release histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation and swelling in the affected area. This response is designed to help remove the allergen from the body, but can also cause uncomfortable symptoms such as itching and redness. In addition to their role in allergic reactions, basophils also help to stimulate the immune response by releasing cytokines, which are chemical messengers that help to activate other immune cells. Overall, basophils play an important role in protecting the body against harmful invaders and maintaining a healthy immune system.

Monocytes

Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune system by engulfing and eliminating germs and dead or damaged cells from the blood. They are also involved in the process of inflammation, which can cause heat and swelling in the affected area of the body, such as a cut on the finger.

Kidney health

Urea

Measuring the levels of urea in the blood can give an indication of how well the liver and kidneys are working. Urea is a waste product produced by the liver when it breaks down proteins, and it is transported to the kidneys for filtering and removal from the body in the form of urine. Normal results do not rule out severe kidney damage in one kidney if the other kidney is functioning well

eGFR

The eGFR, or estimated glomerular filtration rate, is a measurement that evaluates kidney function by estimating the amount of blood filtered by the kidneys. The kidneys contain tiny filters called glomeruli that are responsible for removing waste products from the blood. If these filters fail to work properly, kidney function can be affected. The eGFR is calculated using a person's age, gender, ethnicity, and serum creatinine levels to provide an estimate of their actual glomerular filtration rate.

Creatinine

Creatinine is a naturally occurring waste product that forms from normal muscle metabolism. Elevated levels of creatinine may indicate the presence of other waste products in the body. Creatinine is an important marker for assessing kidney function and can aid in the diagnosis of kidney disease.

Liver health

ALT

ALT is an enzyme that is present mostly in the liver, and to a lesser extent in the heart, muscles, and kidneys. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream, making it a useful marker of liver inflammation and potential damage caused by factors such as alcohol, fatty liver, drugs, or viral infections like hepatitis.

ALP

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that is present in the liver, bones, and other tissues. Elevated levels of ALP in the blood can be an indicator of various liver or bone disorders, or a result of certain medications.

Gamma GT

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), also known as gamma GT, is an enzyme mainly found in the liver, but also present in the pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. Elevated levels of GGT in the blood can indicate liver or bile duct disease. When used together with ALP, another liver enzyme, GGT can help distinguish between liver and bone disease. GGT is also a useful marker for diagnosing long-term alcohol abuse, as it is often elevated in the blood of heavy drinkers.

Inflammation

hs-CRP

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a biomarker that indicates inflammation in the body. The test does not provide information about the location of the inflammation. High Sensitivity CRP (CRP-hs) is a test that detects low-level inflammation, which is believed to harm blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes. CRP-hs levels may rise in response to severe injuries or infections that cause significant inflammation, such as swelling around a twisted ankle.

Iron status

Iron

Iron is a mineral that is necessary for the body to function properly. It is an essential component of haemoglobin, a protein present in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. Insufficient iron in the body can lead to a decrease in haemoglobin levels and result in symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. However, measuring serum iron alone may not provide an accurate picture of iron levels as it can be influenced by the recent intake of iron-rich foods. Therefore, iron is typically evaluated alongside other markers in an iron status test.

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein that acts as a storage unit for iron in the body, particularly in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Measuring ferritin levels in the blood is a useful way to assess the amount of iron stored in the body, as it reflects the body's overall iron status. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency, while high ferritin levels may indicate excess iron storage, which can be a sign of certain medical conditions.

Clotting profile

Platelet count

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are the smallest type of blood cell and play a crucial role in blood clotting. Produced in the bone marrow, they are essential for hemostasis, the process that stops bleeding after an injury or damage to a blood vessel. Platelets are activated when there is damage to a blood vessel, causing them to become sticky and clump together to form a plug, which helps to seal the wound and prevent further blood loss.

Cholesterol status

Total cholesterol

HDL cholesterol

HDL cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a substance present in the body that eliminates cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it to the liver, where it is broken down and then removed from the body via bile. HDL cholesterol is usually referred to as "good cholesterol."

Non HDL cholesterol

The breakdown of your total cholesterol comprises two primary constituents, namely HDL (good) cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol. However, harmful cholesterol types in your blood extend beyond LDL and encompass VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins) and other lipoproteins that are believed to be even more detrimental than LDL cholesterol. Non-HDL cholesterol is obtained by deducting your HDL cholesterol value from the total cholesterol value. Consequently, it incorporates all the non-protective and potentially harmful cholesterol in your blood, not just LDL. Thus, it is considered a better indicator of cardiovascular risk compared to total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. The recommended non-HDL cholesterol level is below 4 mmol/L.

Total cholesterol: HDL

The Total Cholesterol to HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) ratio is a measure used to assess cardiovascular health. Total cholesterol represents the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, while HDL cholesterol is considered the "good" cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries. By calculating the ratio between the two, it provides insights into the balance between "good" and "bad" cholesterol levels. A lower ratio indicates a healthier cardiovascular profile, as it suggests a higher proportion of HDL cholesterol relative to total cholesterol. Monitoring and maintaining an optimal Total Cholesterol to HDL ratio is essential for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

LDL cholesterol

LDL cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a compound comprising lipids and proteins that conveys cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fats to different tissues in the body. When there is an excess of LDL cholesterol, which is also known as "bad cholesterol", it can result in the accumulation of fatty deposits within the walls of arteries, potentially causing atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of lipid or fat that are present in the blood. When you eat, your body converts any extra calories, whether from carbohydrates or fat, into triglycerides, which are then carried to cells to be stored as fat. Triglycerides are later released by the body when they are needed for energy.

Protein

Total protein

Total Protein is the total amount of protein in the blood, which includes both albumin and globulin. These proteins have several functions such as maintaining blood volume, transporting nutrients, and protecting the body against infection. Abnormal levels of total protein can suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney disease.

Albumin

Albumin is a protein produced mainly by the liver that helps to maintain the osmotic pressure of the blood, keeping water inside the vessels. It also aids in the transport of nutrients, medications, and other substances throughout the body, and is important for tissue growth and repair. Additionally, albumin carries hormones in the blood, and measuring its levels can provide information about the amount of hormone available to the tissues.

Globulin

Globulin is a group of proteins synthesized by the liver and the immune system. They have different functions such as binding with haemoglobin, transporting metals like iron, and fighting infections. Immunoglobulins, a type of globulin, are antibodies that play a critical role in the immune system's response to infections.

SHBG

SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) is a protein produced by the liver that binds with sex hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the bloodstream. When hormones are bound to SHBG, they become inactive and are not available for use by cells. Measuring the level of SHBG in the blood can provide important information about the levels of free or unbound hormones, which are biologically active and available for use.

Hormones

FSH

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a vital role in the reproductive systems of both men and women. In women, FSH helps stimulate the growth and development of follicles in the ovaries during the first half of the menstrual cycle. As follicles grow, they increase the levels of oestradiol, a hormone important for ovulation. One of these follicles eventually becomes dominant and is released during ovulation, after which FSH levels decrease in the second half of the cycle. In men, FSH acts on the seminiferous tubules of the testicles to promote the maturation of immature sperm cells into mature sperm.

LH

Luteinising Hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in male and female fertility. In females, LH levels increase sharply around the middle of the menstrual cycle, causing ovulation to occur. It is also responsible for the formation of the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to prepare the uterus for pregnancy. In males, LH stimulates the production of testosterone in the Leydig cells of the testes, which is essential for the development of male reproductive organs and secondary sexual characteristics.

Oestradiol

Oestradiol is a steroid hormone that is primarily produced in the ovaries of women and to a lesser extent in the testes of men. It is one of three types of estrogen and has important functions in regulating the female reproductive system, as well as promoting breast tissue growth and maintaining bone density. Oestradiol levels naturally fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, peaking at ovulation in pre-menopausal women. As women age, their oestradiol levels decrease and eventually stop altogether with menopause. Low levels of oestradiol can lead to symptoms commonly associated with menopause such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood swings. Additionally, low levels of oestradiol can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone primarily responsible for male characteristics and is produced in the testicles of men, and to a much lesser extent, in the ovaries of women. It regulates sex drive and plays a crucial role in controlling bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, strength, as well as the production of red blood cells and sperm. Testosterone levels in men naturally decline after the age of 30, but lower than normal levels can occur at any age, causing symptoms such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, difficulty in gaining and maintaining muscle mass, and lack of energy. Women have much lower levels of testosterone than men, but it is equally important for regulating libido, muscle and fat distribution, and red blood cell formation. The normal reference range for testosterone levels varies slightly depending on the laboratory and population tested, but the British Society for Sexual Medicine recommends that low testosterone can be diagnosed when testosterone is consistently below the reference range, or when levels are below 12 nmol/L, especially in men who report symptoms of low testosterone or have low levels of free testosterone.

Free testosterone - calculation

The majority of testosterone present in the bloodstream is bound to proteins, predominantly SHBG and albumin, with only a small amount (2-3%) existing in an unbound or free state, and thus available for use by cells. The test in question employs a formula to determine the level of free or unbound testosterone based on the total testosterone level, as well as levels of SHBG and albumin.

Prolactin

Prolactin is a hormone that is synthesized in the pituitary gland and is involved in the regulation of reproductive functions. Its main function is to stimulate lactation after delivery, and it is common for prolactin levels to increase substantially during pregnancy and breastfeeding in women.

Cortisol

The adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that is commonly referred to as the "stress hormone." Cortisol plays a crucial role in various functions that are necessary for survival, including regulating blood pressure, releasing insulin to maintain blood sugar levels, and supporting the immune system.

DHEA

DHEAS, the sulfated variant of DHEA, is a hormone that is synthesized by the adrenal glands and contributes to male characteristics in both males and females. The levels of DHEAS progressively decrease starting at the age of 30.

Diabetes

HbA1c

Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), also known as glycated haemoglobin, provides a measure of average glucose levels in the blood over a longer period than a simple blood glucose test. When glucose attaches to the haemoglobin in red blood cells, it forms glycated haemoglobin, which can be used to estimate the average level of sugar in the blood over the preceding 2-3 months, as red blood cells have a lifespan of around 12-16 weeks.

Thyroid hormones

TSH

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates the production of thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) by the thyroid gland. TSH levels increase when thyroid hormone levels are low, and decrease when thyroid hormone levels are high. Abnormal TSH levels can indicate problems with the thyroid gland, such as under or overproduction of thyroid hormones. It can also be a result of pituitary gland disorders.

Free thyroxine

Thyroxine (T4) is one of the two primary hormones produced by the thyroid gland. It plays a vital role in regulating metabolic processes in the body. T4 is mostly bound to carrier proteins in the blood, and only a small amount of it exists in its free or unbound form. In contrast to free T3, free T4 is relatively inactive, but it is still essential for normal body function. When the body requires thyroid hormone, free T4 is converted to the more active form, free T3.

Thyroglobulin Antibodies

This test aims to detect antibodies to thyroglobulin, a protein that is exclusive to the thyroid gland. Normally, thyroglobulin remains confined within the thyroid gland and does not enter the bloodstream. However, if the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, as in the case of inflammation, thyroglobulin may be released into the bloodstream and antibodies can be identified. The majority of thyroid disorders result from an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. In Graves' disease, this causes the gland to produce an excessive amount of thyroid hormone, while in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the immune system gradually destroys the cells of the thyroid gland, leading to a reduced production of thyroid hormone.

Free T3

Triiodothyronine (T3) is a thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism. The majority of T3 in the bloodstream is bound to protein. Free T3 is the portion of T3 that is not bound to protein and is considered the biologically active form of the hormone that can regulate metabolism. Measuring free T3 levels is important in diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders.

Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies

The thyroid gland produces thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme that plays a vital role in converting T4 to the biologically active T3. This test is designed to detect the presence of antibodies to thyroid peroxidase, which suggests that the immune system is attacking the thyroid gland and interfering with its normal function.

Vitamins

Folate (B9)

Folate is a type of B vitamin that plays a key role as a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids. In addition to this, it is also essential for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines which are building blocks of DNA and are required for red blood cell formation. Adequate folate levels are particularly important during the early stages of pregnancy, and if you are planning to become pregnant, it is recommended to ensure that your folate levels are normal.

B-12 Active

Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It also supports metabolism and the nervous system, and prolonged deficiency of vitamin B12 may lead to nerve damage. While vitamin B12 is predominantly present in animal-based foods, some vegetarian and vegan products, such as plant-based milks, are now fortified with this vitamin.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a hormone that is primarily synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. It is important for maintaining bone health as it aids in calcium absorption from the intestines. Apart from this, vitamin D also plays a role in immune function and is associated with various chronic diseases and mental health. In the UK, many people have low levels of vitamin D, which can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and mood swings. People with dark skin and those who do not spend much time outdoors are particularly at risk of low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D can also be obtained from food, especially oily fish, eggs, and fortified foods. However, food sources may not be sufficient to correct a deficiency in vitamin D.

Minerals

Magnesium

Foods rich in magnesium include green leafy vegetables, avocados, bananas, wholemeal bread, brown rice, fish, and meat. While magnesium is essential for good health, excessive exposure to it can cause breathing problems, skin and eye irritation, flu-like symptoms, and gastrointestinal discomfort. On the other hand, low magnesium levels in the body can result in muscle aches and pains, fatigue, osteoporosis, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure. Low magnesium is linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, and diabetes.

Sampling special instructions

Prepare for your Advanced Sports Hormone Blood Test by following the instructions included in your test kit. To ensure accurate results, it is recommended to take your sample before 10am. It is important to wait until any symptoms of short-term illness have settled before undergoing the test. In preparation for the test, avoid engaging in heavy exercise for at least 48 hours beforehand. Additionally, refrain from consuming fatty foods for at least eight hours prior to the test; fasting is not required. If you are a menstruating individual, it is optimal to take the test between days two and five of your menstrual cycle, with day one being the first day of your period. However, if you do not experience menstrual cycles, the test can be taken at any time. Please note that hormonal contraception can impact the test results.

For more accurate results, consider taking a break from hormonal contraception and using barrier methods instead. Avoid taking biotin supplements for two days before the test, and consult with your doctor if you have been prescribed biotin. If you use hormone gels, pessaries, patches, or tablets, it is strongly recommended to select a venous sample to minimize the potential for contamination often observed with finger-prick tests. In the case of administering hormone supplements, ensure that your fingers have not been in contact with them for at least four weeks before taking the test, as hormones can be absorbed deep within the skin and persist despite thorough handwashing.