PCOS Blood Test
Feb 9, 2026
PCOS Blood Test
A PCOS blood test measures key hormones including testosterone (often elevated), LH and FSH ratio, AMH, and insulin resistance markers to help diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome—a hormonal condition affecting approximately 1 in 10 women that causes irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, weight gain, and fertility problems. Early diagnosis allows effective management and reduces long-term health risks.
At Blood Test London, PCOS testing costs from £245 with results in 2-3 days.
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder characterised by:
Irregular periods (or no periods)
Elevated androgens (male hormones)
Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
You need 2 of 3 criteria for diagnosis (Rotterdam criteria).
PCOS Blood Test Panel
Hormone Tests
Marker | What We're Looking For |
|---|---|
Testosterone | Often elevated in PCOS |
Free androgen index | More accurate than total testosterone |
SHBG | Often low in PCOS |
LH | Often elevated |
FSH | Often normal (LH:FSH ratio matters) |
LH:FSH ratio | >2:1 suggests PCOS |
AMH | Often elevated (reflects follicle number) |
Prolactin | Rule out other causes |
Metabolic Tests (PCOS Increases Risk)
Marker | Why We Test |
|---|---|
Fasting glucose | Insulin resistance common |
Fasting insulin | Directly assess insulin levels |
HbA1c | Diabetes risk |
Lipid profile | Cardiovascular risk |
Rule Out Other Conditions
Marker | Rules Out |
|---|---|
Thyroid function | Thyroid disorders mimic PCOS |
Prolactin | Prolactinoma |
17-OH progesterone | Congenital adrenal hyperplasia |
Signs and Symptoms of PCOS
Menstrual
Irregular periods (>35 days between)
Very light or very heavy periods
Absent periods
Androgen-Related
Excess facial/body hair (hirsutism)
Acne (especially along jawline)
Male-pattern hair thinning
Oily skin
Metabolic
Weight gain (especially around middle)
Difficulty losing weight
Skin darkening (neck, armpits, groin)
Skin tags
Fertility
Difficulty conceiving
Irregular ovulation
Understanding Your Results
Typical PCOS Pattern
Marker | PCOS Pattern |
|---|---|
Testosterone | Elevated |
SHBG | Low |
Free androgen index | Elevated |
LH | Elevated |
FSH | Normal |
LH:FSH ratio | >2:1 |
AMH | Elevated |
Fasting insulin | Often elevated |
Note: Not all women with PCOS have all abnormalities.
PCOS Management
Lifestyle (First Line)
Weight loss (5-10% improves symptoms significantly)
Low glycaemic index diet
Regular exercise
Reducing refined carbohydrates
Medical Options
Combined pill (regulates periods, reduces androgens)
Metformin (improves insulin resistance)
Anti-androgens (for hair/acne)
Fertility treatments when needed
Our PCOS Testing Options
Basic PCOS Screen - £345
Testosterone, SHBG, FAI, LH, FSH, prolactin, thyroid
Comprehensive PCOS Panel - £445
All above plus AMH, fasting insulin, glucose, HbA1c, lipids
PCOS + Fertility Assessment - £545
Complete panel plus detailed fertility hormone assessment
Book Your PCOS Test
Price: From £245
Results: 2-3 days
Doctor review: A doctor always reviews every result
Best time: Day 2-5 of menstrual cycle (if you have periods)
Phone: 020 3951 3429
FAQ
What day of my cycle should I test?
Day 2-5 is ideal for hormone levels. If your periods are very irregular, any day is acceptable.
Can PCOS be cured?
There's no cure, but it's very manageable. Many women see significant improvement with lifestyle changes.
Does PCOS affect fertility?
It can make conception harder due to irregular ovulation, but most women with PCOS can conceive with appropriate treatment.
Will I need an ultrasound too?
Often yes—ultrasound shows polycystic ovaries. Blood tests + ultrasound + symptoms = complete picture.
Blood Test London by The Wellness. PCOS testing from £245, results in 2-3 days.