If you think you have PCOS, you need to get your body checked regularly. Blood tests will show the hormone levels, liver functions, and glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels. There are other tests your doctor may order to determine if you have PCOS. Your GP may also order certain tests based on your symptoms. To get started, contact a doctor for a consultation.
Hormone levels
Blood tests for PCOS can provide vital insight into a woman’s hormonal status. These tests can measure levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA-S), a male hormone present in most women. The levels of DHEA-S in women normally range between 35 and 430 ug/dl, while levels in women with PCOS tend to be higher than 200 ug/dl.
Liver function tests
There are many reasons to get liver function tests for PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in premenopausal women. The primary causes are androgen excess and ovarian dysfunction. Common symptoms include anovulatory menstruation, infertility, and hirsutism. Patients with the disorder are also at increased risk of developing insulin resistance, obesity, and diabetes.
Glucose levels
A glucose level test is often performed in patients with PCOS to assess their diabetes. It will show your average blood sugar levels for the last two to three months. If your glucose levels are higher than normal, you could have a problem with your blood sugar control. A high glucose level may be indicative of another condition, such as prediabetes or diabetes. Glucose levels are also a key factor in evaluating the progression of PCOS.
Triglyceride levels
High TG levels are a sign of PCOS and have been linked to increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. Triglyceride levels should be under 150 mg/dL in healthy adults, but they can become elevated for various reasons, including high-carbohydrate diets, inactivity, and high insulin levels. Healthy lifestyles, such as reducing your intake of fats and taking fish oil, can help lower your TG levels.
Cholesterol levels
Cholesterol levels in blood tests for PCOS can be a major cause of concern. While high cholesterol levels are common in the general population, they increase significantly in women with PCOS. This is because high cholesterol levels lead to higher triglyceride levels, which are associated with increased risks of heart disease. Women with PCOS are more likely to develop high cholesterol, as well as other cardiovascular risk factors, including insulin-resistant diabetes and high blood pressure.
Thyroid function tests
PCOS is caused by an excess of hormones called prolactin. This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates basic metabolic processes. Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood can be associated with PCOS and can lead to irregular menstruation. The level of prolactin can even be elevated to the point of total absence of menstruation. Blood tests for PCOS are usually performed by a physician.
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