Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects one in ten individuals of childbearing age across the globe. Up to 70% of PCOS cases worldwide are undiagnosed.
Typically, it is characterized by a range of symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and the formation of small fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can have significant implications for a person's health and well-being. Because it affects so many facets of a woman’s body, it could have serious effects on a woman’s reproductive career and life especially if not properly managed.
While its exact cause remains unclear, PCOS is known to disrupt fertility, impact metabolic functions, and manifest as a host of physical and emotional challenges. This makes it an important condition to understand and manage – especially with doctor’s intervention as they can take into account each symptom.
How can Kindred’s PCOS packages help?
Kindred’s array of PCOS packages are designed to provide patients with a holistic and personalized approach to managing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Including necessary consultations and tests, as well as optional add-ons dependent on doctor’s requests, each aspect of the condition is addressed so that patients receive proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
PCOS can be diagnosed as soon as one has their first menstrual period, and so if any irregularities are present, then it’s best to consult a professional immediately. Kindred’s PCOS Package for Pre-Teens and Teens is a comprehensive plan designed specifically for adolescents aged 10-15 years old who have already shown symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalances, weight management issues, and mental health concerns. The package also takes into account their complete well-being and growth, as it encompasses their medical, nutritional, physical, and emotional needs.
Regardless of the package booked, each variation of the PCOS Package comes with a minimum of two doctor consults to ensure continuity of care.
Why book a PCOS package?
Our Kindred PCOS packages ensure that all your bases are covered since they take into account the full spectrum of tests and consults required for a PCOS diagnosis. The results from these tests will be crucial in determining a personalized treatment plan.
How do I know which PCOS package to book?
The Basic PCOS Package (Screening) covers an initial doctor’s consult, a transvaginal ultrasound, HbA1c blood test, and follow-up consultation to confirm and diagnose PCOS. Patients who are unsure if they have a condition are advised to book this package, to break down any irregularities and symptoms they experience, together with other health concerns.
The Comprehensive PCOS Package covers the aforementioned, plus two additional OBGYN consults to monitor and assess the patient’s response to treatment, and six other laboratory tests for the other symptoms of PCOS.
The PCOS Package (Upgrade) is an add-on package for individuals who have initially purchased the Basic Screening PCOS Package and have been advised to get a full PCOS work-up.
What do the different tests mean?
Transvaginal Ultrasound
The transvaginal ultrasound is a test included in the PCOS Screening Package (both Basic and Comprehensive) recommended for women ages 25 and above – especially those who have a family history of cancer. This imaging test uses a probe inserted into the vagina to check reproductive organs and to diagnose any problems in the uterus and ovaries, particularly if there is an excess in small follicles on the ovaries for PCOS.
HbA1c
The HbA1c test is used to analyze blood sugar levels and to monitor glucose control for the past three months. This test is also used to diagnose pre-diabetes and diabetes.
75 grams OGTT (FBS & 2nd hour only)
75 grams OGTT is a fasting blood sugar or oral glucose test that is also used to identify diabetes.
Lipid profile
The lipid profile test checks for cholesterol and triglycerides, since PCOS can increase one’s risk for developing heart disease.
FT4 and TSH
Both FT4 and TSH are thyroid tests that indicate thyroid functions. They are used to assess whether markedly low or high levels cause periods or anovulation, which is when a woman does not ovulate and subsequently manifests as menstrual irregularities.
AST / SGOT
AST / SGOT is a liver function test. AST is an enzyme that aids in the breakdown of amino acids, and elevated levels may indicate muscle or liver damage. This is important in determining if pills or medications will be appropriate as part of management.
ALT / SGPT
ALT / SGPT is a liver function test. ALT is an enzyme in the liver that aids in the conversion of protein into energy for liver cells. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage. This is important in determining if pills or medications will be appropriate as part of management.
BUN / Creatinine
BUN / Creatinine is a renal function test used to evaluate your kidneys. It’s often required as a common work up for certain conditions or ordered before taking some medications.
Ferriman galleway visual scoring
Ferriman galleway visual scoring is a physical examination used to evaluate hirsutism. When levels are elevated, doctors may recommend other tests. The test’s metrics range from 0 to 4, with 0 marking no hair growth and 4 for severe hair growth. It examines eleven areas of the body where hirsutism or excessive hair growth are evident.
LH
The luteinizing hormone (LH) is what triggers ovulation. When testing the level of LH, you get insight into ovary function – with elevated levels indicating that it may be insufficient.
FSH
FSH triggers the development of follicles located in the ovaries. FSH levels indicate ovary function, with a normal or lowered result possibly contributing to the symptoms of PCOS.
Prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone that aids in the initiation and maintenance of milk secretion following childbirth. However, markedly high and low levels may indicate that one has PCOS or other conditions.
Total testosterone
The total testosterone test is used to measure the level of the androgenic hormone produced in adrenal glands and ovaries. Elevated levels may be the cause of more masculine features, such as baldness or hirsutism common in women with PCOS.
DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate)
The DHEAS test is used to check the function of adrenal glands and measure levels of a steroid hormone that the body converts into estrogen and androgens. Higher levels may cause amenorrhea, which is when menstruation does not occur.
17 OHP (17-Hydroxyprogesterone)
17 OHP is a blood test that evaluates the amount of this hormone produced in the sex and adrenal glands. It is used to check for non-classic adrenal hyperplasia from PCOS.
The PCOS packages, side-by-side
*Please note that the PCOS Package for Pre-Teens and Teens has optional add-ons, which can be done if recommended by the advising physician:
Consultations
Nutrition & Dietetics - to create a personalized nutrition plan based on the patient’s specific symptoms, whether it is difficulty losing weight or managing blood sugar levels
Dermatology - to treat acne, hirsutism, or hair thinning
Psychology - to provide emotional support, coping strategies, and a therapeutic approach in navigating the mental health issues experienced by adolescents with PCOS
Imaging
Nutritional Package (Nutrition & Dietetics Consultation + Nutritional Plan)
Although Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is not curable, it is highly treatable –– beginning with proper evaluation and diagnosis. Working closely with a doctor and multiple specialists ensures that each symptom is taken care of and treated, not just as isolated parts but as a whole as well. Don’t ignore the signs! Book a PCOS Package today on mykindred.co!
Last medically reviewed on September 25, 2023.