Ulta Lab Tests

Cory Ruth - Essential PCOS Panel

Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Estradiol

Estradiol (estradiol-17 beta, E2) is part of an estrogen that is a group of steroids that regulate the menstrual cycle and function as the main female sex hormones. Estrogens are responsible for the development of female sex organs and secondary sex characteristics and are tied to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. They are considered the main sex hormones in women and are present in small quantities in men. Estradiol (E2) is the predominant form of estrogen and is produced primarily in the ovaries with additional amounts produced by the adrenal glands in women and in the testes and adrenal glands in men. Estradiol levels are used in evaluating ovarian function. Estradiol levels are increased in cases of early (precocious) puberty in girls and gynecomastia in men. Its main use has been in the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea – for example, to determine whether the cause is menopause, pregnancy, or a medical problem. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements are used to monitor follicle development in the ovary in the days prior to in vitro fertilization. Estradiol is also sometimes used to monitor menopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Also known as: Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone

Fsh

Lh

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: Free T3, FT3, T3 Free

T3, Free

This test measures the amount of triiodothyronine, or T3, in the blood.

Also known as: Free T4, FT4, T4 Free

T4, Free

The free T4 test is not affected by protein levels. Since free T4 is the active form of thyroxine, the free T4 test is may be a more accurate reflection of thyroid hormone function.

Also known as: Testosterone Free Dialysis and Total LCMSMS

Free Testosterone

In many cases, measurement of total testosterone provides the doctor with adequate information. However, in certain cases, for example when the level of SHBG is abnormal, a test for free or bioavailable testosterone may be performed as it may more accurately reflect the presence of a medical condition.

TESTOSTERONE, TOTAL,

A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. In males, the testicles produce most of the testosterone in the body. Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of low testosterone: In boys -- early or late puberty and in men -- impotence, low level of sexual interest, infertility, thinning of the bones In females, the ovaries produce most of the testosterone and levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of higher testosterone levels, such as: decreased breast size, excess hair growth, increased size of the clitoris. irregular or absent menstrual periods and male-pattern baldness or hair thinning.

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.

Also known as: ,25-Hydroxyvitamin D2, 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3), 25-OH-D2,D3 Vitamin, D2 Vitamin,25-Hydroxyvitamin D3,25-OH-D3, QuestAssureD 25Hydroxyvitamin D D2 D3 LCMSMS, Vitamin D, Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Vitamin D2, 25-hydroxy,25-Hydroxyergocalciferol (25OHD2),Vitamin D3, 25-hydroxy

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
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The Cory Ruth - Essential PCOS Panel panel contains 9 tests with 11 biomarkers .

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can affect various systems in the body, including reproductive, metabolic, and thyroid function. Identifying these imbalances through regular lab testing is crucial for early detection, effective management, and overall well-being. The Cory Ruth – Essential PCOS Panel provides a comprehensive look at the key biomarkers associated with PCOS. By choosing Ulta Lab Tests, you’ll gain valuable insights at significant savings, alongside a convenient, patient-friendly testing experience.

Recognizing PCOS Symptoms

  • Irregular menstrual cycles (prolonged, absent, or unpredictable)
  • Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or back
  • Acne or persistent skin issues
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Thinning hair on the scalp
  • Mood changes (anxiety or depression)

Identifying these symptoms is your first step toward pinpointing the root causes of PCOS and determining an effective management plan.

Test Categories and Their Importance

1. Reproductive Hormones

These tests offer insights into your body’s hormonal balance, which is central to understanding and managing PCOS.

  • Estradiol

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Estradiol is the primary form of estrogen in women. Abnormal levels can disrupt menstrual cycles, ovulation, and fertility.
    • Monitoring: Tracks fluctuations to guide treatment strategies for cycle regulation and symptom control.

  • FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Evaluates ovarian function and the balance within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. PCOS is often associated with an increased LH-to-FSH ratio.
    • Monitoring: Helps healthcare providers tailor fertility plans and assess if interventions are improving ovulatory function.

  • Testosterone, Free (Dialysis) and Total (MS)

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Elevated testosterone levels are a hallmark of PCOS, contributing to symptoms like hirsutism and acne. Free testosterone measured by dialysis provides a highly accurate assessment, while total testosterone offers an overall androgen level.
    • Monitoring: Indicates the severity of androgen excess and gauges whether treatments—such as medications or lifestyle changes—are effectively reducing levels.

2. Thyroid Function

Thyroid imbalances can mimic or worsen PCOS symptoms, making thyroid evaluation an essential part of an endocrine panel.

  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Screens for hypo- or hyperthyroidism, which can lead to menstrual irregularities, weight fluctuations, and fatigue.
    • Monitoring: Ensures that thyroid levels remain within a healthy range, guiding medication or lifestyle modifications.

  • T3, Free

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Measures the unbound, active form of triiodothyronine. Abnormal levels can affect metabolism, energy, and weight regulation.
    • Monitoring: Helps fine-tune thyroid therapy or lifestyle adjustments to maintain optimal thyroid function.

  • T4, Free

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Evaluates the unbound, active form of thyroxine, impacting metabolic rate and overall energy balance.
    • Monitoring: Supports targeted interventions to keep metabolism and hormone production in check.

3. Metabolic Markers

Metabolic health is closely linked with PCOS, as insulin resistance and blood sugar dysregulation are common.

  • Glucose

    • Detection & Diagnosis: A fasting blood sugar test used to identify prediabetes or diabetes risk. Elevated glucose levels often accompany PCOS due to insulin resistance.
    • Monitoring: Assesses improvement or worsening of blood sugar control following dietary and medication interventions.

  • Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1C)

    • Detection & Diagnosis: Reflects average blood glucose levels over the previous two to three months. Persistent elevations suggest prediabetes or diabetes.
    • Monitoring: Evaluates the long-term effectiveness of lifestyle changes or medical therapies in maintaining stable blood sugar.

4. Nutrient Status

Maintaining proper nutrient levels can optimize hormone function and support overall health.

  • Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay
    • Detection & Diagnosis: Low vitamin D is frequently linked to insulin resistance, reduced fertility, and mood changes—all factors relevant to PCOS.
    • Monitoring: Ensures adequate vitamin D supplementation or lifestyle modifications to maintain healthy levels, supporting bone density and metabolic health.

Relation to the Endocrine Panel

These tests form an essential endocrine panel, giving you and your healthcare provider a detailed overview of your hormonal balance, metabolic markers, and nutrient status. Such comprehensive insight helps detect, diagnose, and monitor PCOS, guiding precise and personalized interventions that address the root causes of your symptoms.

Conclusion
Regular lab testing is a cornerstone of effective PCOS management. By measuring and tracking critical hormones, metabolic indicators, and nutrient levels, you gain a clearer picture of your health status—allowing you and your healthcare provider to develop targeted strategies that improve your symptoms and overall quality of life.

When you choose Ulta Lab Tests, you’ll enjoy:

  • Significant cost savings with transparent pricing
  • Convenient testing at partner labs nationwide
  • Fast, confidential online results
  • No insurance requirements and no hidden fees

Take advantage of these benefits to confidently navigate your PCOS journey and work toward lasting hormonal balance and wellness.

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