🌸 Polycystic Ovaries: What's Going On?
 
Ever heard of the term "polycystic ovaries" and wondered what it actually means?
 
Imagine your ovaries as bustling little factories, diligently preparing eggs each month. In some individuals, these ovaries become slightly enlarged and house numerous small, fluid-filled sacs called follicles. These aren't harmful cysts, but rather, they're like eggs that didn't quite finish their journey to maturity.
 
It's important to note that having polycystic ovaries doesn't automatically mean you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). While many with PCOS exhibit this ovarian appearance, not everyone with such ovaries has the syndrome. PCOS is a broader condition encompassing various hormonal imbalances and symptoms.
 
🔍 What's Behind PCOS?
 
PCOS is a multifaceted condition, and its exact cause remains a bit of a puzzle. However, research points to a combination of factors:
Genetics: PCOS often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component .
Hormonal Imbalances: Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) can disrupt the regular development of eggs, leading to irregular ovulation.
Insulin Resistance: Many with PCOS have cells that are less responsive to insulin, prompting the body to produce more. This excess insulin can increase androgen production, exacerbating symptoms .
Environmental Factors: Lifestyle elements like diet, physical activity, and exposure to certain environmental toxins may influence the development and severity of PCOS .
 
🩺 How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
 
Diagnosing PCOS isn't about a single test but rather a combination of assessments.
However, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) isn’t just about reproductive hormones and can impact many aspects of your health.
 
That’s why our PCOS blood test goes beyond the basics to give you a full picture.
 
We check key hormone levels like testosterone
Luteinising hormone (LH) follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
 
These play critical roles in your menstrual cycle, fertility, and overall hormonal balance.
 
But PCOS can sometimes be confused with other conditions. So, to cover all bases, we also screen for thyroid dysfunction and high cortisol levels, two common culprits that can mimic PCOS symptoms.
 
PCOS is linked with higher risks of developing diabetes and heart disease. To help identify risks, our panel includes vital markers for blood sugar control and cholesterol health.
Catching potential problems early means you can take action to protect your future well-being.
 
What We Test For?
Our PCOS blood test covers 25 key biomarkers across several important health categories:
 
Cholesterol & Heart Health
LDL Cholesterol
Non-HDL Cholesterol
HDL Cholesterol
Total Cholesterol
Total Cholesterol to HDL Ratio
Triglycerides
 
Diabetes Risk
HbA1c
Fasting glucose
 
Hormonal Balance
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Free T3 (active thyroid hormone)
Free T4 (thyroid hormone precursor)
Oestradiol (Estrogen)
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Luteinising Hormone (LH)
Progesterone
Prolactin
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)
Total Testosterone
Free Testosterone + Percentage
Free Androgen Index (FAI)
Cortisol
 
Inflammation & Protein Markers
C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Albumin
Total Protein
CRP/Albumin Ratio
 
💬 Why It Matters
 
PCOS can affect much more than just your periods or fertility, as it can influence your heart health, metabolism, weight, and even emotional well-being. By giving you a detailed view of your internal health, this blood test helps you create a targeted plan that supports your short-term goals and long-term vitality.