PCOS test
An at-home blood test for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
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The at-home polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) blood test involves providing a small blood sample, taken from a finger-prick, to test key hormone levels that may be associated with PCOS. The sample is then sent to our partner laboratory for analysis.
You can order an at-home PCOS test from Asda Online Doctor quickly and conveniently. You’ll usually receive your results within 72 hours of the lab receiving your sample, and our doctors will inform you of what to do next.
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PCOS is a common condition, affecting up to 13% of reproductive-aged people with ovaries around the world, but up to 70% are undiagnosed. The 3 main features of PCOS are:
- Irregular periods, which indicate your ovaries do not regularly release an egg, a process called ovulation.
- Excess androgen levels, including testosterone, which can cause signs such as excess facial or body hair.
- Polycystic ovaries, where your ovaries become large and contain lots of fluid-filled sacs called follicles that surround eggs.
Having at least 2 of these features means you may be diagnosed with PCOS.
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A PCOS blood test measures various hormone levels that can diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome, including:
- testosterone
- sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG)
- follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
- luteinising hormone (LH)
- free androgen index
- thyroid hormones
By measuring some of these common hormones, it can give you a more accurate picture of whether you may or may not have PCOS, when analysed alongside other physical symptoms and test results.
A PCOS blood test may also assess insulin resistance, another common feature of PCOS, by measuring your insulin and fasting glucose levels. Your blood fat levels (cholesterol and triglycerides) are also checked because PCOS can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.
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A PCOS test may be important for anyone with a womb who has irregular periods and:
- acne
- excessive hair growth
- difficulty losing weight
It may also be recommended if you’re having difficulty getting pregnant because of ovulation issues. You may also consider testing if you have a family history of PCOS, or you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.
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The at-home PCOS test is a type of blood test that you can perform at home by providing a small blood sample using a finger prick. When you order a test kit, you will be provided with all the equipment and information you need to safely provide a blood sample and send it back to our partner lab for quick analysis.
To use the PCOS test kit, you will need to:
- Clearly write your details on the blood collection tube label using a ballpoint pen, and make a note of the Royal Mail tracking number displayed on the return postal box label.
- Remove the blood collection tube from the kit and insert it into the holder. Remove the tube cap and set it aside.
- Choose between your middle or ring finger for collecting your sample.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and then dry them with a clean, dry towel.
- Using the alcohol swab provided with your kit, clean your chosen finger and allow it to air dry.
- Remove 1 lancet from the bag, twist, and remove the blue stick. The lancet is ready to use.
- Position the lancet against the side of your chosen finger. Once positioned, firmly against your skin until you hear a click.
- A small drop of blood should form. Wipe this first drop away with a tissue.
- Holding your hand down, firmly massage your hand down to your finger, without squeezing, to encourage blood flow.
- While massaging your finger, allow the blood to drop into the collection tube.
- Fill the collection tube to the upper line on the side of the tube.
- Once filled, stop collecting and clean your finger with a moist wipe, then dry it with a tissue. Apply the spot plaster provided in the kit to your finger to stop it from bleeding. Replace the cap on the tube.
- Gently invert the collection tube 5 to 10 times.
- Ensure the tube is labelled with your details and place it in the transport pouch.
- Post your sample back to our partner lab.
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The best time to take a PCOS test is on day 3 of your menstrual cycle (day 3 of your period) for the most accurate results. If you have irregular or absent periods, you can take the test at any time.
Ideally, you should collect your sample as soon as you wake up, before eating or drinking. That’s because hormone levels can fluctuate throughout the day, but those associated with PCOS may be most stable in the morning. It can also provide a more accurate picture of insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels after fasting overnight.
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When you receive your results, you will be shown a range of different hormone levels. These can include:
What high levels might mean What low levels might mean LH (luteinising hormone) High LH: FSH ratio is common in PCOS
Can suggest issues with hormone pathway that includes the hypothalamus (an area of the brain), the pituitary gland, and ovaries
FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) Low ovarian reserve
Low levels are common in PCOS and hypothalamic dysfunction
Total testosterone Can cause common PCOS symptoms such as excess hair growth, acne, or irregular periods
Rarely concerning, but could affect sex drive
SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) Can decrease free testosterone levels and be a sign of certain hormone deficiencies, anorexia, and pregnancy
Indicates a higher amount of free testosterone is in circulation, leading to PCOS symptoms
Free androgen index Can suggest high levels of free testosterone, suggesting excess androgens and is associated with PCOS
Suggests low levels of biologically active testosterone, causing low sex drive and fatigue
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Once you receive your results, our doctors will advise you on the next steps to take. If your blood test results suggest hormonal imbalances that are consistent with PCOS, you’ll need to make an appointment with your GP for further tests and treatment.
The main treatments for PCOS include:
- lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and following a healthy diet and exercise regime (even a 5% reduction in weight can improve PCOS symptoms)
- medication, including the contraceptive pill to regulate periods and symptoms, or weight loss medication to help you to manage your weight
- surgery (only when medication and other methods have not worked)
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Frequently asked questions
How accurate is an at-home PCOS test compared to a clinic test?
The at-home PCOS test kit provided by Asda Online Doctor is highly effective at detecting hormone changes that may be associated with the condition. However, it cannot be used on its own to diagnose PCOS, you will need to visit your doctor to discuss your symptoms and medical history.
Can I take a PCOS test while on birth control?
No, it’s not recommended that you take a PCOS test while using hormonal birth control, like the contraceptive pill, because it can interfere with your hormone levels, giving you inaccurate results.
Will a doctor review my results?
Yes, one of our doctors will review your test results once they are available and advise you on the next steps. Please be advised that our doctors will never contact you via email or text message with your results. Instead, they will be made available in your patient account.
After completing her first degree, she went on to study graduate-entry medicine at Warwick University. After graduating as a doctor, she worked within the West Midlands in Urology, Respiratory Medicine, Infectious Disease, and Psychiatry before transitioning into a full-time medical communications role.
Meet our doctorsLast reviewed: 24 Aug 2025
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Polycystic ovary syndrome, NHS [accessed 27 June 2025]
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Polycystic ovary syndrome, WHO [accessed 27 June 2025]
GMC: 7074021
GMC: 6149065
GMC: 7085115
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