Clear, evidence-based explanations of the conditions and hormones that shape women's reproductive health.
Conditions
These conditions affect hundreds of millions of women globally. Understanding them is the first step toward taking control.
The transition phase
Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, typically starting in a woman's 40s (sometimes late 30s). The ovaries begin producing estrogen irregularly and menstrual cycles become unpredictable.
Common signs
Why it matters
Early awareness helps manage symptoms proactively. Hormone tracking helps clarify which changes are perimenopause-related.
A new chapter
Menopause is defined as twelve consecutive months without a menstrual period. The average age of onset is 51, but this varies significantly between individuals.
Common signs
Why it matters
Hormonal changes during menopause affect long-term bone and heart health. Regular hormone monitoring supports personalised health decisions.
Understanding and taking action
Infertility is defined as inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected sex (6 months if over 35). It affects both women and men; approximately 40% of cases have a female-side cause.
Common signs
Why it matters
Early hormone assessment can surface potential causes. Women can take active steps through cycle tracking, lifestyle changes, and medical consultation.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance affecting ovary function. It is one of the most common endocrine disorders, affecting 8–13% of women of reproductive age worldwide.
Common signs
Why it matters
Unmanaged PCOS increases long-term metabolic and cardiovascular risks. Hormone tracking helps monitor response to treatments.
The 4 Hormones
LH, FSH, Estrogen, and Progesterone together tell the full story of your cycle. Here is what each one does.
LH
Luteinizing Hormone
LH is produced by the pituitary gland and triggers ovulation.
Why it matters
The LH surge causes the dominant follicle to release an egg. Tracking LH is the most reliable way to identify the fertile window with day-level precision.
FSH
Follicle Stimulating Hormone
FSH is secreted by the pituitary gland and stimulates follicle development in the ovaries.
Why it matters
High FSH levels can indicate diminished ovarian reserve. Tracking FSH across the cycle helps assess reproductive health over time.
E3G
Estrogen (Estriol Glucuronide)
E3G is a metabolite of estrogen measured in urine, representing the primary female sex hormone.
Why it matters
Rises before ovulation, drives follicle growth, and prepares the uterine lining. E3G tracking provides foundational data for understanding the fertile phase of the cycle.
PdG
Progesterone (Pregnanediol Glucuronide)
PdG is the urinary metabolite of progesterone and rises after ovulation.
Why it matters
Confirms ovulation occurred and supports potential implantation. Low PdG levels can signal a luteal phase defect.
Whally
Whally measures all four hormones in a single test strip, read by your smartphone.