Description

The PCOS Hormone Panel evaluates key reproductive, metabolic, and androgen hormones commonly associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), irregular cycles, infertility, acne, excess hair growth, hair thinning, weight gain, insulin resistance, and other hormone-related symptoms.

This panel helps assess ovulation patterns, ovarian function, androgen excess, metabolic health, cardiovascular risk factors, insulin resistance, and overall hormonal balance.

Includes:

Total Testosterone Measures the total amount of testosterone circulating in the body. Elevated levels may contribute to common PCOS symptoms such as acne, excess facial or body hair growth, scalp hair thinning, and irregular menstrual cycles.

Free Testosterone Measures the portion of testosterone that is biologically active and available for use by tissues. Free testosterone may better reflect androgen-related symptoms in some individuals, even when total testosterone appears normal.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) SHBG is a protein that binds to hormones like testosterone and estrogen. Low SHBG levels can increase the amount of free testosterone available in the body and are commonly associated with insulin resistance and PCOS.

DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate) An androgen hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. Elevated DHEA-S levels may indicate adrenal contributions to androgen excess and can be associated with acne, hair growth changes, and hormonal imbalance.

LH (Luteinizing Hormone) LH plays an important role in ovulation. Many individuals with PCOS have elevated LH levels or an increased LH-to-FSH ratio, which may interfere with normal ovulation and menstrual regularity.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) FSH helps regulate ovarian follicle development and egg maturation. Evaluating FSH alongside LH can help assess ovarian function and reproductive hormone balance.

Estradiol Estradiol is one of the primary forms of estrogen in the body. Measuring estradiol can help evaluate ovarian hormone production, menstrual cycle function, and overall reproductive health.

Progesterone Progesterone helps determine whether ovulation has occurred. Low progesterone levels may suggest irregular or absent ovulation, which is common in PCOS.

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. HbA1c can help evaluate insulin resistance, prediabetes risk, and metabolic health, which are commonly associated with PCOS.

AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) AMH reflects ovarian follicle count and ovarian reserve. Individuals with PCOS often have elevated AMH levels due to increased follicle numbers within the ovaries.

ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) ApoB measures the number of potentially atherogenic lipoprotein particles in the blood and may provide additional insight into cardiovascular risk beyond a standard cholesterol panel. Elevated ApoB levels may be associated with insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction.

Lipid Panel Evaluates cholesterol and triglyceride levels, including HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. PCOS is commonly associated with metabolic changes that may increase cardiovascular risk.

InsulinMeasures fasting insulin levels to help evaluate insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction, both of which are commonly associated with PCOS. Elevated insulin levels may contribute to weight gain, hormone imbalance, and increased androgen production.

Common Reasons for Testing:

  • Suspected PCOS
  • Irregular or missed periods
  • Fertility concerns
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Excess facial or body hair
  • Hair thinning or hair loss
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Insulin resistance concerns
  • Metabolic health evaluation
  • Hormonal imbalance symptoms

Preparation:

Fasting recommended.