Many women who have PCOS have not had the correct blood work done or don't know what blood tests to ask to have done. I would like to post some important labs used to diagnose and monitor PCOS 1. Total testosterone (elevated levels are > 50ng/dl 2. Free testosterone 3. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) (plays a role in ovulation and egg development) 4. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) (responsible for egg release from the ovaries) 5. LH/FSH ratio (results should be under 2) 6. DHEA-sulfate (this test tells how much androgens or "male hormones" your body is producing) DHEA sulfate converts into testosterone. 7. Prolactin 8. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) this test will help to rule out hypo or hyperthyroidism (slow vs fast metabolism issues) 9. Liver Function tests (LFT's). Important since medications pass through the liver, to check for possible damages. Checking every 3-6 months is recommended. 10. Fasting Lipid Profile: Total Cholesterol (< 200 mg/dl is ideal)
I am a Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian, Nutrition Therapist and Educator specializing in Eating Disorders, Wellness, Hormone Imbalance and PCOS, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Sports Nutrition, Weight Management, Healthy Lifestyle and much more!