These tests rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms as PCOS.
PCOS blood tests include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone, testosterone, and prolactin.
These tests cannot confirm a PCOS diagnosis on their own.
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An ultrasound showing multiple ovarian cysts is the main diagnostic feature of PCOS.
This article discusses PCOS blood tests.
It explains the different hormone levels and what they may mean.
It also details other conditions that must be excluded before your healthcare provider can diagnose PCOS.
If the pregnancy test is negative, your provider will move forward with other blood tests.
Many people with PCOS have persistently elevated LH levels throughout their menstrual cycles and otherwise normal hormone levels.
If your FSH is elevated, it could also indicate an unrelated condition calledprimary ovarian insufficiency.
17-Hydroxyprogesterone Test
The 17-hydroxyprogesteroneblood test (17-OHP) detects a hormone made by the adrenal glands.
It is involved in the production of the stress hormone cortisol.
DHEA/Testosterone Blood Test
Dehydroepiandrosterone(DHEA)andtestosteroneare hormones calledandrogens.
Androgen irregularities are a guide to help diagnose PCOS, but they are not a smoking gun.
These two hormones regulate basic metabolic functions.
Having low levels of either could cause menstrual changes similar to those experienced in people with PCOS.
A low SHBG level is a sign of PCOS.
AMH is believed to inhibit a follicles ability to mature into an egg (oocyte).
This can prevent ovulation, cause longer menstrual cycles, and lead to infertility.
Estrogen Levels Test
Abnormal estrogen levels are also common with PCOS.
Estrogen can be high or low with PCOS, though often estrogen level tests come back normal.
Estrogen is the star hormone of the female reproductive system.
Its levels rise and fall throughout the cycle.
When estrogen levels are high, it prompts the release of other hormones that stimulate ovulation.
If pregnancy does not occur, estrogen levels drop, prompting menstruation.
Estrogen works in tandem with progesterone and other hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle.
Both low and high estrogen levels can contribute to longer menstrual cycles, a common symptom of PCOS.
High estrogen levels are linked toestrogen dominance, a hormone imbalance associated with irregular menstrual cycles.
Prolactin Test
Prolactinis a hormone made by the pituitary gland.
Its primary role is promoting lactation.
Then you will be asked to drink a sugary solution.
In people without diabetes, blood sugar levels should return to normal within two hours of drinking the solution.
If not, the test can be indicative ofprediabetesordiabetes.
Urine samples are sometimes collected as well.
People with PCOS often have high cholesterol, which can increase their risk ofheart diseaseand diabetes.
Some studies suggest that up to 70% of people with PCOS have elevated cholesterol and/or triglycerides.
When Are PCOS Blood Tests Taken?
PCOS blood tests may need to be repeated at different times of the month.
Hormone levels rise and fall throughout the menstrual cycle.
Hormone testing does not typically require fasting.
The initial blood draw should only take a few minutes.
The amount of time it takes to get PCOS blood test results depends on the lab.
Results can be ready within hours but may take a few days if the lab is very busy.
Summary
There is no single test that can diagnose PCOS.
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