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Blood Test
Do you have PCOS, or do you suspect a hormonal imbalance? A blood test is necessary for your doctor, gynecologist, or endocrinologist to make a diagnosis. Below is the list of tests to be performed
Blood Test: PCOS Diagnosis Confirmation
To confirm PCOS, various tests are necessary. The hormonal assessment includes measuring hormone levels through a comprehensive blood test. The blood test is mandatory, unlike the ultrasound, which is not required. The latter will simply confirm the results of the blood test.
PCOS Hormonal Assessment
- FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone): Follicle-stimulating hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a role in the development of ovarian follicles in women.
- LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Luteinizing hormone is also produced by the pituitary gland and is involved in regulating ovulation and the production of sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
- 17 Beta Estradiol: This is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone primarily produced by the ovaries, which is important for the development and maintenance of female sexual characteristics and the regulation of the menstrual cycle.
- Progesterone: This hormone is produced by the ovaries after ovulation, and it is essential for maintaining pregnancy and regulating the menstrual cycle.
- AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): This hormone is produced by granulosa cells in ovarian follicles and is used as a marker of ovarian reserve, which refers to the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries.
- Prolactin: This hormone, produced by the anterior pituitary gland, plays a role in milk production. It can also influence ovarian function.
- Testosterone: A male sex hormone present in small amounts in women. Excess levels can contribute to hyperandrogenism symptoms such as hirsutism and acne. This includes SHBG, DHEA, and DHT (mentioned below).
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) + T3, T4 + ATPO: These tests evaluate thyroid function. Thyroid imbalances can affect the menstrual cycle and contribute to PCOS symptoms.
- S-DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate): A precursor to sex hormones, including testosterone, produced by the adrenal glands.
- Delta-4 Androstenedione: Another precursor to sex hormones, also produced by the adrenal glands.
- Cortisol: A stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which can influence ovarian function and hormonal regulation.
- Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin: A protein that binds to circulating sex hormones and influences their availability in the body.
- HOMA (Insulin Resistance Test): A test used to assess insulin resistance, a common factor associated with PCOS due to its high prevalence among women with this condition.
- Vitamin D: Deficient levels of vitamin D have been linked to hormonal imbalances and fertility issues in women with PCOS.
To learn more, check out the related blog article: Diagnosing and Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Different Types of PCOS.
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