Updated July 2026 · Informational only
PCOS workup
Labs to request when irregular cycles + hyperandrogenism (acne, hirsutism) or metabolic features (weight, insulin resistance) suggest PCOS phenotype workup.
What labs to request
- Total + free testosterone (hyperandrogenism marker)
- DHEA-sulfate (distinguishes adrenal from ovarian androgen excess)
- SHBG (often low in insulin-resistant PCOS)
- 17-hydroxyprogesterone (rule out non-classical CAH)
- Fasting insulin + glucose + A1c (insulin-resistant phenotype)
- Prolactin (rule out mimic)
DTC lab comparison
Compare home + clinic lab panels side-by-side
Each lab covers different markers. Quest is venous (most accurate). Everlywell is broadest panel. Mira is continuous tracking, not single-point. Pick based on what you actually need to learn — not on price alone.
| Provider | Panel | Cash price | Draw method | CLIA / CAP | Results | HSA/FSA | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quest DirectOwned lab | Comprehensive Female Hormone Panel | $199 | Venous (Quest / CAP location) | CLIACAP | 3–5 days | ✓ | Most accurate panel — venous draw at 2,000+ Quest locations. Best for PCOS workup or accurate testosterone. |
| Everlywell | Women's Health Test | $249 | Fingerstick (home) | CLIA | 5–8 days | ✓ | Comprehensive hormone + thyroid panel from home. Good if you want broad coverage a same-day collection. |
CLIA = Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (federal lab standards). CAP = College of American Pathologists (additional voluntary accreditation, stricter). Owned-lab = provider runs their own lab vs outsourcing to partner labs.