PCOS Detecting Tests: PCOS Awareness Month is observed in September annually to spread awareness about this woman’s health condition and improve the lives of those affected by PCOS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common health condition experienced by millions of women around the world and is a major contributor to female infertility. Women with PCOS are at a greater risk of many other chronic health diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity and many others.
While talking about PCOS and its treatment, Dr Meenakshi Mohan, Consultant Pathologist- Neuberg Pulse Diagnostics, Kolkata said that understanding and diagnosing PCOS is a critical step in empowering women to take control of their health. Five essential blood tests play a pivotal role in detecting and managing PCOS, shedding light on the intricate hormonal imbalances that define this condition. Here is the list of five common tests that can detect PCOS listed by Dr. Meenakshi.
Watch the video below to learn about the link between PCOS and obesity:Â
Common Tests To Detect PCOS
1. Androgen Levels
Elevated levels of androgens, often referred to as male hormones, are a hallmark of PCOS. Measuring androgen levels in the blood helps healthcare providers pinpoint the hormonal imbalances that underlie symptoms like acne, excess facial or body hair, and irregular menstrual cycles.
2. Insulin Resistance
Extending your emotional support to one suffering from PCOS can make a huge difference (Image Credits: Canva)
Insulin resistance is a common feature of PCOS and can contribute to its severity. Blood tests that assess insulin levels and glucose tolerance provide valuable insights into how the body responds to insulin. Early detection of insulin resistance can guide lifestyle changes and treatment options.
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3. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) to Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Ratio
An elevated LH to FSH ratio is often seen in PCOS. This imbalance can disrupt ovulation and contribute to infertility. Monitoring this ratio through blood tests can aid in PCOS diagnosis and management.
4. S*x Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)
SHBG is a protein that binds to s*x hormones in the blood. Low levels of SHBG are associated with elevated androgen levels in PCOS. Measuring SHBG levels helps in understanding the hormonal profile and guiding treatment decisions.
5. Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)
AMH is a hormone produced by small ovarian follicles. Elevated levels of AMH are often observed in PCOS and can indicate an increased number of immature follicles. AMH testing can assist in PCOS diagnosis and assessing ovarian function.
Tests that detect PCOS are a breakthrough for treating and preventing this health condition in women (Image Credits: Canva)
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS affects an estimated 8–13% of reproductive-aged women, and up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed worldwide. PCOS is the most common cause of anovulation and a leading cause of infertility. This is why detection, prevention and treatment of PCOS is important for women to lead a happy and healthy life.
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Dr. Meenakshi says that blood tests for PCOS (as mentioned above) are invaluable tools in the early detection and management of PCOS. These tests provide concrete evidence of hormonal imbalances, enabling healthcare providers and individuals to make informed decisions about treatment options, lifestyle modifications, and proactive health management.
