Test for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS refers to multiple cysts on the ovaries and a host of other problems that go along with them, including anovulation (lack of ovulation) and menstrual abnormalities, hirsutism (facial hair), male pattern baldness, acne, and often obesity. Such women may also have varying degrees of insulin resistance and an increased incidence of Type II diabetes, unfavorable lipid patterns (usually high triglycerides), and a low bone density. Laboratory tests often show higher than normal circulating androgens, especially testosterone.

Here's where to read a detailed article about PCOS by Dr. John Lee and Virginia Hopkins.

Below are listed the tests that may help you determine whether you have PCOS. Women with PCOS typically have high fasting insulin, high testosterone and low progesterone.

NOTE: New York State Residents
New York State health law prohibits the testing of specimens collected in or mailed from New York, and prohibits the transmission of data from the laboratory to NY physicians or residents. Therefore, direct receipt of lab results for NY residents is not possible.

Fasting Insulin
$30.00

Blood Spot Test. Fasting insulin in blood spot for the detection of insulin resistance is collected in the morning after a 12-hour fast and before eating or drinking. High insulin can be a symptom of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and diabetes. Often caused by obesity and poor diet, markers of high insulin can include weight gain, water retention, high blood pressure, and low magnesium.

Progesterone (Pg) - Blood Spot
$35.00

Blood Spot Test. Recommended with symptoms of deficiency or excess (see The Hormone Balance Test link above). Best tested in concert with estradiol, as an imbalance of these two hormones is associated with major symptoms of menopause and disorders of the reproductive system.

Testosterone (Saliva) (T)
$35.00

Recommended with deficiency or excess symptoms; indicator of low sex drive, hair loss, muscle mass and bone status. It is recommended that Testosterone and SHBG be tested together to determine imbalances of testosterone and estrogen; an important indicator of Andropause onset and/or premature aging in men.