Polycystic Ovary (PCOS) Blood Test
Determine whether PCOS might be contributing to irregular menstrual cycles, acne, increased body hair, or fertility concerns through a straightforward blood test.
Polycystic Ovary (PCOS) Blood Test
PCOS is a condition that affects 1 in 10 women in the UK. Typical symptoms include irregular and painful menstrual cycles, increased body hair, weight gain and fertility concerns. While there is currently no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed through changes to lifestyle and, in some cases, medical treatment.
This test assesses the levels of key hormones which are commonly associated with PCOS, providing a better insight into whether you are likely to have the condition or not.
Why have a Polycystic Ovary (PCOS) Blood Test?
- Diagnosis Confirmation: To help diagnose PCOS, particularly if a woman is experiencing symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and weight gain.
- Hormone Levels: To measure levels of key hormones that can be imbalanced in PCOS, such as:
- Androgens: Elevated levels of male hormones like testosterone.
- LH and FSH: An imbalance in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratios.
- Insulin: Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, so blood sugar and insulin levels may be checked.
- Rule Out Other Conditions: To exclude other conditions that can mimic PCOS symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or hyperprolactinemia.
What is tested?
Polycystic Ovary (PCOS) Blood Test - 6 Biomarkers
- Hormones – Free androgen index, FSH, Hormone phase, LH and Testosterone
- Proteins – SHBG
Advanced Polycystic Ovary (PCOS) Blood Test - 18 Biomarkers
- Cholesterol Status – HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, Non-HDL cholesterol, Total cholesterol, Total cholesterol : HDL and Triglycerides
- Diabetes – Glucose (fasting) and HbA1c
- Hormones – Free androgen index, FSH, Hormone phase, LH, Oestradiol, Prolactin and Testosterone
- Proteins – SHBG
- Thyroid Hormones – Free thyroxine, TSH
Please note:
- Results can take up to 7 working days from the sample being sent in the post.
- Your results will include a doctor’s overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Special Instructions:
- Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed.
- Take your sample between 6am and 10am.
- Take this test two to five days after the start of your period, ideally on day three. It can be taken any time if you do not have periods.
- Take your sample at least 24 hours after any vitamin or mineral supplements.
- Hormonal contraception can affect the results of this test. Taking a break from this and waiting for your periods to restart before your blood test will give more accurate results.
Additional Instructions for Advanced PCOS Blood Test:
- Do not eat or drink anything other than water for 12 hours prior to your test.
- Avoid vigorous exercise or sexual activity for 48 hours beforehand – both can raise your prolactin level. Avoid nipple stimulation or heavy meals before taking the test, as these can increase prolactin levels.
What is the process?
- Our experienced phlebotomist will uncover your right or left arm.
- A tourniquet will be placed around your upper arm. A tourniquet makes it easier for a needle to be placed in your veins by swelling the veins.
- Once the tourniquet is fitted, a small quantity of blood will be drawn into tubes, using a needle.
- After the blood draw is completed, a plaster will be placed onto the site; this can be removed after a couple of hours.
- We will then post your sample to our partner laboratory for analysis.
- You will receive your results within 7 working days after the sample has been sent onto the laboratory.
What do I do with my results?
Your results will include a doctor's overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Preparing for your blood test?
- Hydrate – Try to reduce caffeine intake and drink plenty of water before the day of your blood draw, making it easier for our phlebotomist to locate a vein for blood to be drawn from
- Loose Clothing – Our phlebotomist will require access to your arm. Please wear loose clothing to make accessing your arm easier and more comfortable.
- Medication – Please let our phlebotomist know if you are on blood thinners on the day of your blood draw.
Frequently asked questions?
How much blood is taken?
Approximately 8 ml of blood is taken; this is placed into a special tube for transportation to the laboratory.
How long is the appointment?
The appointment is approximately 10 minutes long. Please ensure to arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork that may be outstanding.
What if I'm scared of needles?
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about needles, but please be assured that you are in good hands. Our phlebotomist is experienced and compassionate, and they are here to support you every step of the way. Upon arrival to the clinic, please communicate your concerns to our phlebotomist who will take extra care when carrying out the blood draw.
What if you can't get a blood sample on the day?
Occasionally, we may encounter difficulty in obtaining a blood sample from you. There can be various reasons for this, including insufficient hydration, feeling cold, or having undergone another blood test recently. We'll always offer you another appointment so that we can make another attempt at obtaining the sample.
Finding Hey Baby 4D Hull
Being based in Melton makes our clinic easily accessible to clients from the East Riding of Yorkshire, especially Hull, Goole, Cottingham, Driffield & Beverley. For those travelling over the Humber from the South Bank, we will even reimburse your bridge toll, making us easily accessible to those living in Grimsby, Cleethorpes & Scunthorpe. When visiting Hey Baby 4D in Hull, please only park outside units 4 & 5. There is further parking at the end of the car park. Post code for sat nav: HU14 3PU.