+91 9166125555
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects millions of women all over the world, but diagnosing PCOS can be difficult because the signs and symptoms of PCOS can overlap with those of many other diagnoses. Some blood tests can be useful in establishing a diagnosis of PCOS, as well as ruling out other potential causes of symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, and facial hair.
This blog will share 5 important blood tests doctors commonly use to help diagnose PCOS, explain what you can learn from these blood tests and answer common questions about the testing procedures.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that primarily affects women of childbearing age. The classic signs of PCOS include irregular menstrual cycles, elevated 'male' hormones (androgens), enlarged ovaries with cysts and difficulty with regards to, weight and/or fertility. There is no one single test that can formally diagnose PCOS; rather, it is the combination of the clinical assessment and lab work (blood tests) that will contribute to your doctor’s overall diagnosis.
Why is this test important?
Women with PCOS often have high testosterone or increased levels of androgen hormones. Elevated testosterone can present with symptoms such as acne, thinning hair, increased body hair (hirsutism), and irregular periods.
What does the result mean?
If you have high levels, then it suggests your ovaries are producing too many androgens and that is one of the markers for PCOS. It is also helpful to rule out rare tumors that can produce androgens.
Why are these tested together?
LH and FSH work together to create a normal menstrual cycle and development of eggs. In women with PCOS, the LH:FSH ratio/relation is often greater than normal for a woman (often >2:1), but not always.
What does the result mean?
A big LH/FSH ratio suggests PCOS. However, normal ratios do not rule out PCOS. About 30–40% of women with PCOS may have a normal LH/FSH ratios. These hormones measure and help rule-out other conditions that may have confused symptomology with PCOS.
Why check AMH?
AMH is produced by ovarian follicles, and women with PCOS usually have higher AMH levels. that is, more immature follicles (cysts).
What does the result mean?
High AMH levels help diagnose PCOS and can relate to how severely the condition will impact you. AMH is not a single test but add context to your medical information here, particularly the fertility aspect.
Why are these necessary?
Symptoms of PCOS often overlap with other hormone-related conditions like hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin) or hypo or hyperthyroid (abnormal TSH). These conditions can also cause irregular periods and should be considered or ruled out.
What does the result mean?
Normal levels would rule out pituitary or thyroid issues to be causing the menstrual irregularities, and supports the diagnosis of PCOS if your other reproductive hormone testing showed abnormalities that would lead to a hormonal imbalance.
Why is this included?
Many women with PCOS also have some degree of underlying insulin resistance, which can contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Fasting insulin and glucose levels can be indicative of whether or not this is present in your case.
What does the result mean?
An abnormal result means that your body is not using insulin, a central issue in PCOS. If you're able to identify a problem early, it can be better managed longer term for your health related risks.
While the five tests above are most commonly recommended, doctors may ask for a lipid profile (to check cholesterol), DHEAS (another androgen), and other panels based on individual cases. Your unique symptoms always guide the choice of investigations and next steps.
Preparation: Most of these blood tests will require an 8-12hr fast, early in the morning.
During: A small amount of blood will be drawn from your arm—quick and relatively painless.
PCOS can feel overwhelming, but knowing the purpose of each blood test puts you back in control of your own health. An early and accurate diagnosis (with the five tests discussed above), allows you to access the appropriate management plan. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor questions, or reach out for support as you start your journey to better hormonal balance and health.
Q: Is it possible to diagnose PCOS without an ultrasound?
A: Yes, in most cases, particularly if you exhibit typical symptoms and you have abnormal blood tests. However, an ultrasound examination of the ovaries is typically performed to look for cysts and rule out any other problems.
Q: Are normal hormone blood tests sufficient for diagnosing PCOS?
A: No, there is no single test that is sufficient; diagnosis will depend on the combination of symptoms, blood tests and sometimes an ultrasound. Your doctor will use specific criteria, for example the Rotterdam criteria, which require any two of three findings: irregular periods; evidence of high androgens; polycystic ovaries.
Q: Should I stop taking medications before having my blood tests to assess for PCOS?
A: Some medications (such as hormonal birth control) can affect levels of hormones; therefore, be sure to inform your doctor of everything you take. You may need to stop some of your medications before your blood tests (depending on your medical advice).
Q: Can hormone levels vary during my cycle?
A: Yes. Some of the hormone levels (for example LH and FSH) vary throughout your menstrual cycle, therefore, it may be necessary to time your test (for example day 2 or 3 of your period) to obtain the most accurate readings.
Q: When will I get my blood test results for PCOS?
A: The majority of test results will come back in a few days and some specialized tests such as AMH may take a little longer. Always check back with your doctor to help you understand the result and discuss what to do next.
Add Tests & Packages