Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Panel- Basic

PCOS Blood Test

What exactly is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovarian Disorder is a relatively common condition that affects many women worldwide. Women of reproductive age (18-45) are more prone to PCOS. Female ovaries develop cysts during PCOS, which can lead to various conditions such as hormonal imbalance, weight gain, infertility, and so on. If PCOS is not treated and managed correctly, over time, it can progress to severe problems such as diabetes and heart disease.

What are the common symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

The following are the most prevalent symptoms of PCOS:

• An irregular menstrual cycle due to hormonal imbalance and lack of healthy ovulation.
• Excessive heavy bleeding caused by irregular menstruation.
• Acne with overgrowth of body hair.
• Fertility problems due to lack of ovulation.
• Male pattern baldness.
• Darkening of the skin and presence of dark patches in regions such as the back of the neck, underarms, and genitals.
• High BMI or Obesity.

What are some of the most prevalent causes of PCOS?

The precise causes of PCOS are unknown. Several factors can play a critical role in Polycystic ovarian syndrome. Some of which are:

• Low-grade inflammation: Inflammation is a condition in which the body's cells produce excessive amounts of substances to combat infection. It can cause a variety of issues with the heart and circulatory system. Many researchers have observed that women with PCOS have this type of low-grade inflammatory system in which the polycystic ovaries produce an excess of androgens or male hormones.
• Genetics: Having a family history of PCOS increases the likelihood of having it.
• Excessive androgens: Body dysregulation and excess androgen production can result in PCOS and acne.
• High insulin levels: Insulin is a critical hormone that regulates blood sugar levels in the body. Cells often become resistant to insulin, resulting in increased blood sugar levels. Excess sugar levels cause more insulin to be produced, and the cycle continues. Insulin can also be turned into an excess of androgen, leading to PCOS. women with diabetes are more prone to developing PCOS

What exactly is a PCOS test?

Diagnosis of PCOS is critical in developing an effective therapy and management strategy.

A doctor or gynaecologist examines the symptom and prescribes a comprehensive blood test to determine the levels of various hormones in the female body. The blood profile, ultrasound examination and general medical history can assist in the proper diagnosis. Assessing the levels of various hormones in the body can also help rule out other problems causing PCOS like symptoms.

How is the test carried out?

It is incredibly easy to schedule a PCOS screening test at Redcliffe Labs. We provide a comprehensive and accurate blood testing facility with in-office and at-home sample collection options. Your convenience is our topmost priority. Sample collection is remarkably efficient and safe with our expert phlebotomists. During the blood collection sample:

• You are advised to fast and not eat anything for around 8-12 hours before the test for PCOS .
• Blood is extracted from your arm using a sterile needle by our expert phlebotomist.
• The obtained blood is securely preserved before being sent to our labs and testing facilities.
• Once all the test parameters are run, you can get your test reports within 48 hours.

What are the different test parameters included in the PCOS advanced screening?

The PCOS blood test at Redcliffe involves a comprehensive screening of more than 35 test parameters. Test parameters involve assessing the level of different reproductive hormones like:

• LH (luteinising hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): These are two critical hormones that play a crucial role in ovulation. The average level of LH and FSH range between 5-20 mlU/ml. Most women have equal levels of LH and FSH during the start of their cycle. Right before ovulation, the level of LH hormone increases as LH surge takes place. In women with PCOS, the LH level is two to three times higher than FSH levels. This imbalance can lead to a disruption in regular ovulation.

• Prolactin is the pituitary gland hormone that regulates milk production after pregnancy. Prolactin levels in women with PCOS are normal (less than 25 ng/ml). On the other hand, a high Prolactin level might suggest other disorders that may cause PCOS-like symptoms.

• Testosterone: Women have a low level of testosterone in their bodies. The typical testosterone level in a female body is 0.7-3.6 pg/ml. Male hormone is elevated in PCOS, resulting in pattern baldness, acne, and excessive hair growth.

• Insulin: Several new research studies have revealed that PCOS is a risk factor for diabetes and vice versa. The levels of insulin in such scenarios can be an indicator. Insulin resistance may be a sign of PCOS.

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in PCOS women are primarily normal. The thyroid test is performed to rule out other disorders that may be mistaken with PCOS.
• Oestrogen: The ovary secretes the female hormone oestrogen. A certain quantity of oestrogen is essential for regular menstruation, and most women have a low to average oestrogen level, which ranges from 25 to 75 pg/ml. Excess insulin and testosterone in a woman's bloodstream can be converted to oestrogen, maintaining the normal range even if the woman has PCOS.

Along with the hormone levels, several other factors such as CBC (complete blood count), progesterone levels, glucose levels, and cholesterol levels are evaluated.

What is the PCOS test cost ?

The cost of a PCOS test is often determined by the modern technology and testing facilities available at a laboratory. A PCOS panel test performed at Redcliffe laboratories provides optimum accuracy at the lowest possible cost. The laboratory’s level of trustworthiness and precision also impacts the ultimate cost. The number of parameters included in a PCOS profile test also influences the final cost; the more assessments and parameters, the higher the cost.

We provide more than 35 parameters in our sophisticated PCOS testing at an affordable cost of 1099 INR at Redcliffe Laboratories. The PCOS test price includes all expenses, including delivery and taxes. Several discounts are available on the website, and you can get all of the tests done for as little as INR 1099.

How can I book a PCOS test at Redcliffe Labs?

At Redcliffe Laboratories, we believe in easy and rapid booking. Say goodbye to long lines and book the test from the comfort of your own home.

You can now order your PCOS advanced screening package with ease by dialling a single number. You can contact us at the number provided, and our experienced customer service representative will guide you through the whole process, making the procedure and scheduling as seamless as possible. You can schedule a sample collection day that works best for you and select a free at-home sample collection at no extra cost.

We now provide a PCOS test online booking so that you can book your test straight at redcliffelabs.com. There are several deals and discounts available for you to avail.

Get the most accurate and cost-effective screening today!