Interpretation and Clinical Application of Hormone Assay Results in a Private Fertility Centre in Lagos

Accurate interpretation of reproductive hormone assays is central to the diagnosis and management of infertility in clinical practice. This study evaluates the processes of hormone assay interpretation and clinical application in a private fertility centre in Lagos, South West Nigeria. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining retrospective review of 200 patient case files with key informant interviews of clinicians and laboratory scientists. Hormonal panels reviewed included serum FSH, LH, oestradiol, progesterone, testosterone, prolactin, and anti-Mullerian hormone. The study assesses the consistency between laboratory reference ranges used and current international guidelines, and whether clinical decisions are being made in a biochemically sound manner. Common errors in pre-analytical handling, result transcription, and clinician interpretation were identified and categorised. Turnaround time, quality control documentation, and external quality assurance participation were also evaluated. The study provides a professional development audit of hormone assay practice in a high-volume fertility setting and proposes structured training interventions for laboratory and clinical staff. Findings are expected to improve the accuracy of infertility workups in private healthcare settings across South West Nigeria. Keywords: reproductive hormones, hormone assay interpretation, infertility, fertility centre, Lagos.