PCOS Blood Test - Essential (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Profile I is a comprehensive blood panel designed for women who are experiencing symptoms suggestive of PCOS, such as irregular or absent periods, difficulty conceiving, acne, or excess hair growth. It is also valuable for those with a known diagnosis who wish to monitor the metabolic and hormonal aspects of their condition. This profile provides a detailed assessment by combining key reproductive hormones with critical metabolic markers, offering a holistic view of the endocrine and metabolic systems that are often intertwined in PCOS.

This test measures a range of biomarkers that help to build a complete clinical picture:

Reproductive Hormones
- Luteinising hormone (LH): An elevated LH level, or an increased ratio of LH to FSH, can be a key indicator of PCOS.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Measured alongside LH to assess the balance of these pituitary hormones.
- Testosterone: Often elevated in PCOS, contributing to symptoms like acne and hirsutism.
- Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG): A protein that binds to testosterone. Low levels can lead to a higher level of free, active testosterone.
- Free Androgen Index (FAI): A calculated value that provides a more accurate estimate of the amount of active testosterone in the body.

Metabolic Health
- Fasting glucose: To screen for impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes, which are common in PCOS.
- Insulin: Often elevated as the body becomes resistant to its effects.
- Fasting insulin resistance index (FIRI): A calculated index used to assess the degree of insulin resistance.
- Lipid profile: To evaluate cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as women with PCOS have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Thyroid Function
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): To check for thyroid disorders, which can cause symptoms that overlap with PCOS.
- Free thyroxine (fT4): Measured with TSH to provide a full picture of thyroid function.

Why it matters
PCOS is a complex condition with both hormonal and metabolic components. This profile goes beyond a simple diagnosis by helping to identify the specific drivers of your symptoms. Understanding whether insulin resistance, androgen excess, or another factor is the primary issue allows for a more targeted and effective management plan, whether your goal is to manage symptoms, improve metabolic health, or support fertility.