PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

Description

PCOS
The “PCOS” test including 24 biomarkers is specifically designed to assess various factors relevant to the diagnosis, management, and understanding of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. This comprehensive set of markers looks into hormonal imbalances, metabolic risks, and thyroid function, which are critical aspects in the context of PCOSCardiovascular Health
Cholesterol: A fatty substance essential for building cell membranes and producing hormones. Why measure: To evaluate overall cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Known as “good” cholesterol, it helps lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Why measure: To assess protective cardiovascular benefits and risk factors.
HDL Cholesterol %: This percentage indicates the proportion of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol relative to total cholesterol. Why measure: It reflects the balance of “good” cholesterol in the bloodstream, with higher percentages suggesting a lower risk of heart disease. Monitoring HDL cholesterol % helps assess cardiovascular health and the effectiveness of lifestyle changes.
HDL:Cholesterol Ratio: The ratio of HDL cholesterol to total cholesterol, providing insight into cardiovascular risk. Why measure: To gauge the balance between good and total cholesterol and assess cardiovascular health.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Referred to as “bad” cholesterol, it can lead to plaque buildup in arteries and increase cardiovascular risk. Why measure: To monitor and manage cardiovascular risk.
Non-LDL Cholesterol: This measurement represents total cholesterol minus LDL cholesterol, including other lipoproteins like HDL and VLDL. Why measure: It offers a clearer view of cardiovascular risk by highlighting potentially harmful cholesterol levels. Higher non-LDL cholesterol may indicate increased risk, making it important for monitoring heart health.
Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that can contribute to coronary artery disease if levels are elevated. Why measure: To assess risk of heart disease and evaluate lipid management.
Diabetes
HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): A blood biomarker that reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. It is widely used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. Why measure: To manage and diagnose diabetes effectively.
Inflammation
HsCRP (High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein): A marker of inflammation that can indicate increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Why measure: To predict cardiovascular disease risk and inflammation levels.
Reproductive Hormones
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Regulates reproductive processes such as egg development in females. Why measure: To assess reproductive health and diagnose fertility issues.
Luteinising Hormone (LH): Regulates ovulation in females. Why measure: To evaluate reproductive health and diagnose hormonal disorders.
Progesterone: A hormone that plays a role in reproductive health, hormone balance, and overall well-being.Why measure: To evaluate menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy in women, and to assess hormonal balance and prostate health in men
Prolactin: Involved in lactation and reproductive health. Why measure: To assess lactation, pituitary function, and reproductive health.
Sex Steroid Hormones
DHEA-S (Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulphate): An androgen precursor produced by the adrenal glands, which plays a role in the production of sex hormones and impacts various bodily functions. Why measure: To evaluate adrenal gland function, assess androgen status, and diagnose conditions related to hormonal imbalances, such as adrenal insufficiency or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Oestradiol (Estradiol): A key form of estrogen important for regulating the menstrual cycle and reproductive health. Why measure: To assess estrogen levels and diagnose hormonal disorders.
Testosterone: Main male sex hormone involved in male characteristics, muscle mass, and libido. Why measure: To evaluate androgen levels and diagnose hormonal imbalances or conditions.
Free Testosterone (Calculated): The biologically active form of testosterone. Why Measure: To assess testosterone levels and diagnose hormonal imbalances.
Free Androgen Index (FAI): Ratio of total testosterone to SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin), indicating bioavailable testosterone. Why measure: To evaluate androgen status and diagnose related hormonal disorders.
SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin): A protein that binds sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. Why measure: To assess hormonal balance and diagnose related disorders.
Stress Hormones
Cortisol: Primary stress hormone that regulates metabolism, immune response, and stress adaptation. Why measure: To evaluate stress levels, adrenal function, and overall hormonal balance.
Thyroid Function
FT3 (Free Triiodothyronine): The unbound form of T3 hormone that is active in regulating metabolism and energy levels. Why measure: To assess thyroid function and diagnose thyroid disorders.
FT4 (Free Thyroxine): The unbound form of T4 hormone that helps regulate metabolism and growth. Why measure: To evaluate thyroid function and diagnose thyroid-related conditions.
TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): A hormone that regulates the production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) by the thyroid gland. Why measure: To evaluate thyroid function and diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin D: Vital for calcium absorption and bone health, playing a key role in maintaining bone density. Why measure: To assess and support optimal bone health and calcium metabolism.