Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a complex endocrine condition that affects hormone production, ovulation, and metabolism. Its symptoms may include:

• Irregular or missing menstrual cycles
• Acne, oily skin, or excess hair growth
• Elevated androgen levels (testosterone, DHEA)
• Weight gain or insulin resistance
• Difficulty with ovulation and fertility
• Fatigue, mood swings, or poor stress recovery

While “polycystic” refers to the appearance of the ovaries under ultrasound, not all individuals with PCOS have visible cysts. As a result, lab testing is essential for a complete and accurate diagnosis.

The Rotterdam Criteria—the most widely accepted diagnostic tool for PCOS—requires two of the following three conditions:

• Elevated androgens (clinical or lab-based)
• Infrequent or absent ovulation
• Ovaries with a polycystic appearance on ultrasound

Dr. Larsen emphasizes that many patients fall into different subtypes of PCOS (e.g., insulin-resistant, post-pill, adrenal-driven, or inflammatory PCOS)—and that one-size-fits-all treatments rarely work. The key to effective care is personalized insight through functional hormone testing.

To move beyond surface-level care, Dr. Larsen recommends comprehensive hormone analysis using Meridian Valley Lab’s 24-Hour Urine Hormone Profile. This profile captures hormone rhythms and metabolites across a full day, offering a broader and more accurate view of hormone dynamics than traditional serum testing alone.

Key markers for PCOS assessment include:

• Testosterone (total and free)
• DHEA and androstenedione
• Estrogens (E1, E2, E3) and estrogen metabolites (2/16 ratio)
• LH/FSH ratio
• Progesterone to confirm ovulation
• Insulin and cortisol to evaluate metabolic and adrenal contributors

This full-spectrum approach helps clinicians uncover hidden drivers of PCOS, such as stress hormone dominance, impaired detoxification, or estrogen conversion issues.

Rather than masking symptoms with oral contraceptives or anti-androgens, integrative practitioners often focus on root-cause treatment. Dr. Larsen outlines strategies like:

• Low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory diets
• Myo-inositol and NAC for insulin sensitivity
• Omega-3s and magnesium for hormone balance
• Herbs such as spearmint or licorice root
• Stress regulation through lifestyle and adrenal support

These personalized interventions are more likely to help patients regain ovulation, regulate cycles, and reduce long-term health risks.

Meridian Valley Lab’s 24-Hour Urine Hormone Profile is one of the most complete hormone tests available—perfect for identifying PCOS subtypes and guiding personalized care.

• 🧪 Available in-office or
• 📦 Shipped directly to your patient’s home as a DIY collection kit

Every profile includes:

• Full hormone mapping and daily rhythm tracking
• Androgen and estrogen pathway interpretation
• Free physician consultation to support clinical application

Practitioners: Use comprehensive hormone rhythm and metabolite mapping to clarify PCOS subtype, reduce trial-and-error care, and support long-term outcomes. Contact Client Services to order a profile or discuss interpretation.

Patients: Ask your licensed provider whether comprehensive hormone and metabolite testing could support your PCOS evaluation and treatment plan. Meridian Valley Lab provides laboratory services only and cannot advise patients directly.

Call: 855.405.8378 | 206.209.4200

If you’d like a supporting peer-reviewed reference list for PCOS subtypes, androgen/estrogen pathway considerations, and functional testing strategies discussed in this webinar, please contact our team.