cortisol (eclia)
Reproductive EndocrinologyBlood sampleResults 2-3 daysNo fasting
Cortisol (ECLIA)
Cortisol is your body's main stress hormone, made by the adrenal glands. This test measures the cortisol level in your blood.
Sample
Blood
Results
2-3 days
Fasting
Not required
Follow-up
Optional add-on
What this test detects
Cortisol
ECLIA · serum
Quantitative · µg/dL
When to get this test
Adrenal function check
Helps assess whether the adrenal glands are producing too much or too little cortisol.
Unexplained symptoms
Useful when there is fatigue, weight changes, or blood pressure changes that may point to a hormone imbalance.
Monitoring
Supports follow-up of known adrenal or pituitary conditions.
How to prepare
01
Sample is usually taken in the morning (around 8 AM).
02
Tell the lab if you are taking steroid medicines, as these can affect the result.
Common questions
Why is the sample taken in the morning?
Cortisol naturally rises and falls through the day, peaking in the early morning. A morning sample gives a more standard, comparable result.
Can stress on the day affect my result?
Yes. Strong physical or emotional stress, and illness, can temporarily raise cortisol. Try to rest before your sampling.