Womens Hormone Check - Basic

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a condition in which ovaries release immature or partially-matured eggs during a standard menstrual cycle. The ovaries swell as these eggs evolve into liquid-filled sacs called cysts. Swelling of the ovaries interrupts their usual function and triggers them to produce a large number of male hormones, testosterone.

While there are no known triggers, some of the factors that can contribute to PCOD are:

• Obesity
• Hormonal imbalance
• Stress
• Poor dietary habits

Most cases occur due to genetics, and severe PCOD may result in anovulation, a condition where the ovaries stop producing eggs.

Fortunately, a PCOD test can help you detect the condition early and manage your lifestyle. Apollo 24|7 offers a women's hormone check – a basic test to check for the most causes of PCOD by testing for hormones that contribute to the disorder. Here are the standard tests offered in the PCOD profile test.

• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test: The pituitary gland in the body releases TSH to help regulate the thyroid gland, which releases hormones that help in metabolism and ageing. Low TSH levels impact the thyroid and disrupt the flow of hormones, contributing to PCOD. Hence, the PCOD profile test measures the TSH to assess the risk of PCOD.
• Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test: Also secreted by the pituitary gland, FSH regulates sexual development and functioning. In the case of women, it assists in controlling the menstrual cycle and the growth of eggs. If FSH levels are low, it may result in the release of immature eggs, leading to PCOD.
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Test: The Luteinizing hormone controls ovulation in the female body. LH works with FSH to ensure healthy sexual development in females. The LH test is a blood test for PCOD that gauges the hormone levels to understand the risk for the condition.
• Prolactin Test: Prolactin is responsible for milk production in the breasts. But high levels of this protein can trigger a hormonal imbalance in the body and cause PCOD. Hence, the PCOD profile test uses a prolactin test to confirm the diagnosis.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): The CBC measures the levels of platelets, haemoglobin, red blood cells and other blood components to assess a patient's overall health.

With a comprehensive PCOD test, doctors can gauge the condition early. Here are some symptoms that may indicate the presence of PCOD.

• Irregular periods
• Male patterned baldness
• Unusual weight gain, especially in the abdominal area
• Excessive hair growth

While the condition has no known cure, a PCOD profile test can help doctors suggest suitable treatments. For instance, patients will be advised to monitor their diet and exercise regularly to manage the condition better.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amitava Ray, Family Physician, Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals, Kolkata.

Frequently asked questions

Does excess FSH hormone cause imbalance?

Yes, elevated FSH hormone levels indicate diminished ovarian reserves. Less ovarian reserve amounts to less eggs and stimulating hormone production which can make ovulation uncertain. This may lead to complications in sexual health and conceiving a child difficult.

What is the role of serum prolactin?

Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. Excess prolactin can make breast milk production high in women. Usually high levels of prolactin are found during pregnancy. Low levels of prolactin are found in women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is the role of LH?

LH stands for luteinizing hormone which is made by the pituitary gland. In females LH is one of the most important hormones as it regulates the menstrual cycle and triggers the maturation of an egg from the ovary which also ensures proper growth, developement and sexual health.

Is it normal to produce breast milk in non-pregnant women?

No, non-pregnant women usually do not produce any breast milk for lactation. However, if excess serum prolactin is produced in the body females may secrete breast milk. Get a women�s hormone check basic package to know the serum prolactin levels and treatment by a gynecologist to ensure balance of hormones.