You may be wondering what blood tests do I need for PCOS. Your doctor may perform tests to check cholesterol, triglycerides, and anti-Mullerian hormone levels. But do you know what else is important? You can ask your doctor to order these tests on your behalf, or you can work with a health care professional who specializes in PCOS. This professional can speak with your GP on your behalf and request any blood tests you need.
Thyroid hormone levels
While the exact causes of PCOS are still unknown, many studies suggest that PCOS is associated with subclinical hypothyroidism, goiters, or autoimmune thyroiditis. One recent study published in Endocrine Abstracts found that half of the PCOS women had thyroid-related disease, including positive thyroid antibodies, nodules, or thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid hormones are important in the body’s normal functions, including the regulation of insulin and glucose. This disorder can lead to infertility, menstrual dysfunction, and autoimmune diseases.
Triglyceride levels
A high triglyceride level in your blood may be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome, a disorder that affects the ovaries. High triglyceride levels increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Other causes of elevated triglyceride levels are obesity, diabetes, hypothyroidism, lupus, and corticosteroid treatments. Your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce your blood triglyceride levels.
Cholesterol levels
Blood tests for PCOS patients should be performed to detect cardiovascular risk factors. This includes cholesterol levels. A fasted blood sample should be obtained for the blood test. Women should avoid eating or drinking for 10 to 12 hours before the test. The sample is sent to a laboratory and tested for HDL and LDL cholesterol levels. High levels of cholesterol are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and should be treated with statins or other medication.
Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH)
Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMh) blood tests are a useful tool in diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This test measures the level of this hormone in the bloodstream. It has been proposed as a marker or replacement for the antral follicle count in PCOS diagnosis. It has also been associated with oligoamenorrhoea and hirsutism.
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
When it comes to thyroid function, blood tests are essential to determine whether your condition is treatable. Thyroid hormones help your body produce more insulin and produce more oestrogen. But you may not realize that thyroid hormones can also affect other parts of your body. A Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test is an important way to determine whether your thyroid is acting up.
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