What is a PCOD test?

The prevalence of hormonal imbalance is on the rise in contemporary times, with potential adverse effects on women’s health. Hormonal imbalance in women can lead to the production of multiple immature eggs by the ovaries, ultimately forming cysts—a condition known as polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD). Due to the multifaceted nature of PCOD symptoms, various diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and blood examinations, are commonly employed to confirm the condition.

A PCOD test includes the following blood tests: 

• Hormonal tests for luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estrogen.
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test to exclude thyroid disorders.
• Testosterone test for male sex hormones.
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone test to rule out pregnancy.
• Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test to rule out insulin resistance.

What are the alternative names for the PCOD test?

The PCOD test is also referred to as the PCOS test, with polycystic ovarian syndrome serving as an alternate name for PCOD.

What parameters does the PCOD test evaluate?

PCOD blood tests assess the following parameters:

• LH (luteinizing hormone)
• FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)
• Androgen levels, including total testosterone and free testosterone
• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)
• HCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone) test
• Fasting plasma glucose

Additionally, some healthcare providers may recommend an ultrasound to assess the physical condition of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

What does the PCOD test measure?

The PCOD test measures various indicators related to the condition:

• LH test: Evaluates LH levels, which regulate the menstrual cycle. Elevated LH levels may suggest PCOD.
• FSH test: Assesses FSH levels, with low levels potentially indicating PCOD.
• Androgen test: Measures testosterone levels and high levels may signal PCOD.
• TSH test: Indicates thyroid function, crucial for assessing thyroid-related disorders often associated with PCOD.
• FPG: Measures glucose levels after fasting, helping detect insulin resistance linked to PCOD.
• HCG test: Gauges HCG hormone levels, rising during pregnancy.

* Thyroid disorders and insulin resistance share symptoms with PCOD, and they are interconnected. Therefore, these tests are conducted to diagnose these conditions before confirming PCOD.