Question 1

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Accepted Answer

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgens, and polycystic ovaries. It is caused by hormonal imbalances involving elevated testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and insulin resistance that disrupt normal ovulation. The Testosterone, Free and Total, LC/MS/MS test is the most important test for PCOS diagnosis because it measures androgen excess characteristic of this condition.

Question 2

What causes PCOS?

Accepted Answer

PCOS is caused by hormonal imbalances involving excess androgens like testosterone, elevated luteinizing hormone (LH), and insulin resistance. These hormonal disruptions prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs regularly, causing small fluid-filled sacs (follicles) to accumulate on the ovaries. Genetics also play a role, as PCOS tends to run in families, and lifestyle factors like obesity can worsen insulin resistance and hormone imbalances.

Question 3

What is the best test for PCOS?

Accepted Answer

The Testosterone, Free and Total, LC/MS/MS test is the most important test for PCOS because it measures both free and total testosterone levels, revealing the androgen excess that characterizes this condition. The Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) test is also essential, as women with PCOS typically show elevated LH levels that disrupt ovulation. Additional crucial tests include the Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test, which measures elevated AMH from multiple ovarian follicles, and the Insulin, Fasting test to detect insulin resistance that contributes to metabolic complications and weight gain in PCOS.

Question 4

When should I get tested for PCOS?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience irregular or absent periods, excessive hair growth on your face or body (hirsutism), persistent acne, unexplained weight gain, or difficulty getting pregnant. Testing is also recommended if you have darkened skin patches on your neck or underarms, thinning hair on your scalp, or a family history of PCOS. Early testing helps identify hormonal imbalances before they lead to complications like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or infertility.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles (periods that are infrequent, prolonged, or absent), excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back, persistent acne or oily skin, and thinning hair or male-pattern baldness. Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain, especially around the abdomen, and find it difficult to lose weight. You might also notice darkened patches of skin in body creases like the neck, groin, or under the breasts, along with skin tags in the armpits or neck area.

Question 6

Who is at risk for PCOS?

Accepted Answer

Women of reproductive age are most at risk, particularly those with a family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes. Obesity significantly increases your risk because excess weight worsens insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances. Women with insulin resistance or prediabetes are more likely to develop PCOS, as are those who have struggled with irregular periods since adolescence. Certain ethnic groups, including Hispanic, African American, Native American, and South Asian women, have higher rates of PCOS.

Question 7

What happens if PCOS is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated PCOS can lead to serious health complications including type 2 diabetes, as insulin resistance worsens over time. You face increased risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and stroke. PCOS is a leading cause of female infertility due to irregular or absent ovulation, and when pregnancy does occur, there is higher risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia. Long-term exposure to unopposed estrogen from lack of ovulation increases the risk of endometrial cancer, and many women develop sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, and depression or anxiety.

Question 8

Can PCOS be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are essential for diagnosing PCOS by detecting characteristic hormonal imbalances. Testosterone tests reveal elevated male hormones, while FSH and LH tests show disrupted ratios with typically elevated LH. The Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test often shows elevated levels from multiple small follicles in the ovaries. Insulin and glucose tests identify insulin resistance, and Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is usually low in PCOS. While blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose PCOS, they provide critical evidence when combined with symptoms and ultrasound findings.

Question 9

How is PCOS treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications through lifestyle changes and medications. Birth control pills help regulate periods, reduce androgen levels, and clear acne, while metformin improves insulin resistance and may help with weight loss. Anti-androgen medications like spironolactone reduce excess hair growth and acne. If you are trying to conceive, fertility medications like clomiphene or letrozole can stimulate ovulation. Weight loss of just 5-10% through diet and exercise significantly improves symptoms and hormonal balance, making lifestyle modification the foundation of PCOS treatment.

Question 10

How can I prevent PCOS?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent PCOS if you have a genetic predisposition, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and balanced nutrition significantly reduces your risk and severity of symptoms. Focus on eating whole foods with low glycemic index to manage insulin levels, including plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting processed carbohydrates and sugars. Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes per week, improves insulin sensitivity and helps maintain hormonal balance. Managing stress through adequate sleep and relaxation techniques also supports healthy hormone regulation.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with PCOS?

Accepted Answer

Inositol supplements, particularly myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, improve insulin sensitivity and may restore regular ovulation in women with PCOS. Spearmint tea consumed twice daily can help reduce excessive hair growth by lowering androgen levels. Cinnamon helps regulate menstrual cycles and improves insulin resistance when taken regularly. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil reduce inflammation and may improve metabolic markers. Regular strength training and high-intensity interval exercise are particularly effective for improving insulin sensitivity and reducing testosterone levels naturally. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises helps balance cortisol, which can worsen PCOS symptoms.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

PCOS Blood Test & Hormone Panel

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

What causes PCOS?

What is the best test for PCOS?

When should I get tested for PCOS?

References

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