Thyroid function test (TFT)
Quick answer: A thyroid function test is a group of blood tests, usually TSH with T3 and T4, that shows how well your thyroid gland is working. It is ordered for tiredness, weight change, hair loss, irregular periods, a swelling in the neck, and to monitor thyroid treatment.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careThyroid problems can affect periods, ovulation and pregnancy, so thyroid tests are common in fertility care.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked to come in the morning at a similar time to earlier tests
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3One tube of blood is drawn for all the thyroid tests
- 4A plaster is applied and you can leave
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results are read together, and targets in pregnancy are different, so discuss them with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high TSH with low T4 can point to an underactive thyroid, and a low TSH with high T3 or T4 can point to an overactive thyroid. Mixed patterns can be seen with pituitary problems, recent illness, pregnancy or medicines.
Who usually has this test
People with tiredness, weight change, hair loss or irregular periods, women trying to conceive or pregnant, and those on thyroid medicine.
Risks and aftercare
You can take your usual thyroid medicine once the sample is done, if your doctor asked you to wait.
Names and options
Also called: TFT, thyroid profile, T3 T4 TSH
Listed by the hospital as
- THYROID FUNCTION TEST (TFT), SERUM
Questions about this test
Do I need to fast for a thyroid test?
Fasting is not usually required. Many doctors prefer a morning sample at a similar time each time you are tested. If you take thyroid tablets, ask your doctor whether to take your dose before or after the test.
Can thyroid problems affect getting pregnant?
Yes. Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can affect ovulation and periods, and untreated thyroid problems raise risks in pregnancy. Thyroid tests are therefore a routine part of fertility and pregnancy care.
What tests are included in a thyroid profile?
A thyroid profile usually includes TSH, T3 and T4, either total or free. Some labs add thyroid antibodies. Ask the hospital whether their profile measures total or free hormones.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.