[mochaccino]

Online labs like to claim that their tests are the same as the ones ordered by doctors. That's technically true, because doctors could use the same sort of tests if they wanted to, but they usually don't, so that claim is very misleading. Actual doctors will typically order much more accurate tests than the ones offered by online labs. Basically, when you order from online labs you're usually getting the cheapest version of the test, which is not necessarily innacurate, but it might not be the best version of the test for your particular situation. There are multiple ways to test for various hormones, and their accuracy depends on the situation.

The other major advantage of using a doctor is that your tests might end up being covered by insurance. The online labs are a little expensive.

I personally still chose to order a test online anyway. I didn't have any symptoms, so I didn't see how I would convince a doctor to order several different hormone tests for me. Then again, I didn't even try.

Bottom line is, you should get the tests done by a doctor if you can convince one to order them for you. Online labs are not as accurate.