A blood test is really helpful when you suspect you might have PCOS. Symptoms will vary hugely from woman to woman, so it is important that you get as much tested as possible.
When you know exactly where your hormones are out of balance it becomes so much easier to target the specific nutritional recommendations you need to address the problem
What this test measures:
The test will measure these markers in your blood:
- LH (luteinising hormone) this is the hormone that normally triggers ovulation and is often high when you have PCOS
- FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) which normally stimulates the ovaries to mature an egg
- Testosterone – often high in PCOS
- Prolactin (a hormone produced by the pituitary glands – high levels can stop periods)
- Fasting glucose – to asses insulin resistance
- HbA1c – which is marker of your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the last three months
- Thyroid function (TSH – thyroid stimulating hormone) – to discount the possibility of a thyroid problem
- AMH (anti-mullerian hormone) – this hormone is produced by the ovaries to help the eggs mature each month and is usually high in women with PCOS.
- SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) which helps control levels of sex hormones and is usually low in people with PCOS
- Fasting insulin – this give an indication of possible insulin resistance
- Lipid profile, which includes total cholesterol, HDL (‘good’ cholesterol), LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) and triglycerides because PCOS can cause higher levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol
- DHEAS (dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate) and androstenedione – both male hormones – and 17-OH progesterone which are all secreted by the adrenal glands or ovaries.
- Cortisol – one of the stress hormones
Who should take this test?
- Any woman who suspects she might have PCOS
- Any woman who needs a more comprehensive analysis of her hormones
Test Procedure
- We will send you a referral to get the blood taken.
- The test results will be returned to your nutritionist.
- The test results will be interpreted by your nutritionist at the consultation and then a personalised diet and supplement programme will be tailored to your needs
For more information and to order:
Please call 01892 515905 or email reception@glenvillenutrition.com to arrange this test