PCOS Screening

PCOS is one of the more common hormonal conditions in women of reproductive age, yet it can be challenging to identify because symptoms vary widely. This panel combines reproductive hormones with metabolic markers, providing data that may help in discussions about whether PCOS-related patterns are present.

This test may be relevant for women who:

• Experience irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Notice symptoms such as excess hair growth, acne, or thinning hair
• Have been told they may have PCOS and want to measure associated markers
• Are curious about how insulin and reproductive hormones may relate to their symptoms

This panel measures six markers across hormonal and metabolic categories:

• AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone): may be elevated in women with PCOS due to a higher number of small follicles
• Free Testosterone: the unbound, active form of testosterone; elevated levels may be associated with androgenic symptoms
• Total Testosterone: the overall testosterone level in the blood
• Glucose (Fasting): measures blood sugar after fasting, relevant because insulin resistance is commonly associated with PCOS
• Insulin (Fasting): measures fasting insulin to assess how the body manages blood sugar
• HOMA-IR: a calculated index that estimates insulin resistance based on glucose and insulin values

Elevated testosterone levels (free or total) may be associated with the androgenic features of PCOS such as excess hair growth or acne. AMH levels that are higher than expected may reflect a larger number of small ovarian follicles. The metabolic markers (glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR) can help indicate whether insulin resistance may be present, which is commonly associated with PCOS. Together, these results may contribute to a broader clinical picture when discussed with a healthcare provider.

The test requires a blood draw at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). There are over 750 locations across the Netherlands. Since fasting is required, it is best to schedule a morning appointment.

This test may be considered when:

• You experience irregular periods or anovulatory cycles
• You notice androgenic symptoms such as excess facial or body hair, acne, or hair thinning
• You want to measure both hormonal and metabolic markers associated with PCOS
• A healthcare provider has suggested checking for PCOS-related markers

Results are shown with your values alongside the reference ranges. Elevated testosterone or AMH may suggest hormonal patterns associated with PCOS, while an elevated HOMA-IR may indicate insulin resistance. However, PCOS is typically assessed using a combination of clinical symptoms, imaging, and blood work. These results are intended to be discussed with a healthcare provider who can interpret them in the context of your full clinical picture.

Fasting is required for 8 to 12 hours before the blood draw (water is permitted). For testosterone measurements, cycle day 2 to 5 is often preferred but not strictly required. AMH can be measured on any cycle day. Schedule a morning appointment to combine fasting with optimal hormone timing.

Your results are typically available within a few working days. Each marker is presented with your value, the reference range, and an explanation. These results can be shared with your healthcare provider to discuss whether further evaluation may be appropriate.