PCOD Test - Price, Range, Purpose, Preparation 2024

Table of Content

Introduction to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Panel Test

PCOD, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal imbalance affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It is caused by multiple small cysts in the ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and potential insulin resistance. The PCOD Panel test is a blood test that includes various parameters and helps to diagnose PCOD by measuring hormone levels. The PCOS Panel Test is a group of blood tests aimed at diagnosing PCOS by measuring your hormone levels.

If you are experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, missed periods, excessive hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, acne problems, weight gain, thinning hair, sleep issues, mood swings, and skin darkening. The women who are noticing these symptoms must take the PCOD blood test. Early diagnosis allows for prompt management of symptoms and helps prevent long-term complications like type 2 diabetes, infertility, and cardiovascular disease. While there is no specific age to take the PCOD test, it's recommended whenever the symptoms show. Consult your doctor and take the PCOD test to identify the cause of symptoms and other complications. You can book your test online with Redcliffe Labs. With express slots, the phlebotomist will collect the sample 45 minutes from your location. 

Test details in brief

Purpose of the PCOD panel test

The PCOD Panel test serves several crucial purposes- 

• Diagnosis- The PCOD panel test helps determine your hormone levels, assisting doctors in confirming or ruling out PCOD. The test covers the parameters including FSH, Glucose Fasting, Haemogram, HbA1C, KFT, LH, Prolactin, Insulin fasting, TSH 3rd Generation, and Testosterone Total and measures the levels of these parameters. 
• Monitoring- If you are already diagnosed with PCOD condition, regular PCOD panel testing will help your healthcare provider to track the efficacy of treatment on your hormone levels. Based on your test results, your doctor can adjust medications if needed. 
• Identifying Associated Conditions- PCOD symptoms may overlap with other health conditions. The PCOD profile blood test allows for measuring hormonal levels, detecting the conditions, and enabling early intervention and prevention of potential complications.

Preparation for the PCOD panel test

The PCOD profile blood test covers 48 parameters, and some tests might require some preparation. Here are the instructions you must follow before the test- 

• Fasting- Most PCOS panel tests require fasting 8-12 hours before the blood draw. This means no food or drink except water. 
• Inform your healthcare provider- Discuss your medications or supplements, as they might affect your hormone levels and test reports. 
• Hydration- Drink plenty of water the day before and up to the test. 

The procedure of the PCOD panel test

The PCOD panel test is a comprehensive blood test. The phlebotomist will collect the blood sample from the vein of your arm. The phlebotomist will tie a band or tourniquet on the arm to locate a suitable vein. They sterilize the area and use a thin needle to draw a small amount of blood. You might feel a slight pinch, discomfort, and pain that will get normal soon. After sample collection, the blood vials are labeled and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What does the PCOD panel test detect?

The PCOD panel test is a comprehensive package that covers 48 parameters. The test measures hormone levels and the other substances in the condition. The test measures- 

• FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone)- This stimulates the development of eggs in the ovaries. In women with PCOS, FSH levels may be lower than normal due to the ovaries already being stimulated by other hormones.
• Luteinizing hormone (LH)- Triggers ovulation (egg release) and progesterone production. In PCOS, LH levels may be higher than normal due to the body's attempt to overcome ovulation issues.
• Testosterone- Plays a role in regulating sex drive, muscle mass, and bone density. Women with PCOS may have elevated testosterone levels, contributing to symptoms like hair growth and acne.
• Haemogram (CBC + ESR)- This test covers the different components of blood, including RBC, WBC, Haemoglobin, Hematocrit, and platelets. This also measures the ESR levels; high ESR can cause inflammation. 
• HbA1C Test- This measures average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months and indicates pre-diabetes or diabetes, both more common in PCOS.
• Glucose Fasting Test- Tests blood sugar level after overnight fasting; high levels show impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes, both risks in PCOS.
• KFT Test- This test measures kidney functioning through creatinine, BUN, and electrolyte levels. The imbalance in these measures indicates the PCOD condition. 
• Prolactin (PRL) Test- This is a hormone from the pituitary gland; high levels of PRL can disrupt ovulation and cause menstrual irregularities, as seen in some PCOS cases.
• TSH 3rd Generation Test- This measures the TSH levels; high levels could indicate hypothyroidism, which sometimes can mimic PCOS symptoms.

What do the PCOD panel test reports indicate?

The test reports will be received within 15 hours. Interpreting PCOD panel test reports requires various factors to consider. However, here's a breakdown of what each test result might indicate- 

FSH: 

• Normal- 3-10 mIU/mL.
• High- Above 10 mIU/mL might suggest ovarian insufficiency or another condition, not necessarily PCOS.
• Low- Below 3 mIU/mL could indicate PCOS due to the ovaries already being stimulated by other hormones.

LH:

• Normal- 2-20 mIU/mL.
• High- Above 20 mIU/mL can be a sign of PCOS as the body tries to overcome ovulation issues.
• Low- Below 2 mIU/mL might suggest a pituitary gland issue or ovarian insufficiency.

Testosterone:

• Normal- Varies based on age and menstrual cycle phase. Generally, <30 ng/dL.
• High- High levels are common in PCOS and contribute to symptoms like hair growth and acne.
• Low- Not common in women, might suggest ovarian insufficiency or adrenal gland issues.

Prolactin

• Normal: 5-20 μg/L.
• High: Elevated levels may disrupt ovulation and menstrual regularity, as seen in some PCOS cases.
• Low- Low levels are not related to PCOD condition.

Fasting Glucose and HbA1C:

• Normal- Fasting glucose <100 mg/dL, HbA1C <5.7%.
• High- Elevated glucose levels mean glucose intolerance or diabetes, both more common in PCOS and require management.
• Low- Very low glucose (hypoglycemia) is uncommon and requires further testing. 

Thyroid Function:

• Normal: TSH: 0.4-4.00 mIU/L, T4: 5.0-12.1 μg/dL, T3: 100-200 ng/dL.
• High TSH above normal range indicates hypothyroidism, which can mimic PCOS symptoms.
• Low: TSH below normal range means hyperthyroidism, which can also cause menstrual irregularities.

What if the PCOD panel test reports are abnormal?

If your PCOD panel test reports are abnormal, then consult your doctor. Your doctor can recommend additional tests and treatment plans based on your test results, medical history, symptoms, and other details. The healthcare provider will advise lifestyle changes like eating a healthy and balanced diet, exercising, and managing weight. 

Depending on your condition and complications, the healthcare provider may suggest medications like hormonal therapies, insulin sensitizers, or ovulation-stimulating drugs might be recommended. Managing other health risks like diabetes, heart disease, and mental health are important aspects of PCOS care.

Who should take the PCOD panel test?

The women who are noticing the symptoms of PCOD must take the PCOD profile test. However, consult your condition with your healthcare provider. Based on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend the test. Here are the people who must take the PCOD profile test- 

• Women experiencing any of the common PCOS symptoms
• Women with a family history of PCOS 
• Women struggling with infertility 
• Women having metabolic issues 
• Teenagers experiencing delayed puberty 

If you are not sure about the PCOD symptoms, then consult your doctor. Your doctor might recommend the PCOD panel test based on your symptoms, medical history, and family history. Getting tested early can significantly improve your health. So don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor.

What are the common symptoms related to PCOD?

PCOD presents differently in every woman, but some common symptoms include-

• Irregular periods
• Hormonal imbalance
• Excessive hair growth
• Weight gain 
• Mood swings
• Fertility issues
• Skin darkening
• Depression 
• Anxiety
• Sleeping issues

PCOD Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The PCOD test price is INR 1599 at Redcliffe Labs. You can book your appointment with the Redcliffe Labs app. Our labs are equipped with advanced cutting-edge technology and maintain high-quality standards. Our prices are highly affordable and competitive so that everyone can afford them. With a presence in 220+ cities, we are closer than other options. You can book a home sample collection, and the phlebotomist will come to your doorstep. We ensure the timely delivery of accurate reports. Also, you can access your results and reports through our website or app. Book your PCOD profile test NOW!

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PCOD Profile Testing: Balancing Hormones, Empowering Lives 

PCOD is manageable with proper management. If you have PCOD or have symptoms, then consult your doctor and take a regular PCOD profile test to know the status of your health. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing long-term complications like diabetes, heart disease, and infertility. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek medical help. Understanding the hormonal imbalances helps in treatment plans to address symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and weight gain. However, by managing symptoms and addressing underlying imbalances, the test paves the way for a healthier and more fulfilling life with PCOS.