How Much Does it Cost to Test for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) without Insurance?

There is no single test that diagnoses polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A series of blood tests, physical exams, and lifestyle interventions can average $400-500 a year, plus an average of $30/month for medications without insurance. With Mira, you can receive comprehensive blood work for only $170, which covers essential lab screening for non-members.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common, complex, and chronic condition caused by an excess production of androgens in the ovaries. PCOS symptoms present in different manifestations across the lifespan, with metabolic, fertility, and cosmetic consequences being the most common in women of reproductive age. 

Blood tests are most commonly used to assess hormone levels in the body but are not necessary to define the symptoms of PCOS. “I went to get a standard physical in 2020 and talked about my symptoms and struggles in life, but I didn’t think it was all connected to PCOS. I was literally just diagnosed off of my conversation with my provider and got bloodwork done after the fact,” Alissa Rey, 25, tells Mira. 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Symptoms

Diagnosis and Costs for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Treatment

Treatment for PCOS is categorized by women seeking to get pregnant and women who aren’t. As a general rule of thumb, to diagnose PCOS, women must meet two of the following three criteria:

1. Irregular or missing menstrual periods
2. High testosterone levels
3. Polycystic ovaries (not necessary)

Unfortunately, many things are lacking for women, like accurate tests. “A lot of times I’ll see patients, they may have a beard, lost all hair on the top of their head, and say- Well, the doctor said my testosterone was low, so, therefore, I don't have PCOS, even though they have a beard. You can test for it but take it with a grain of salt because it may be normal,” leading expert on PCOS Katherine Sherif, MD, Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University, tells Mira. 

There is no single test that will diagnose you with PCOS. A physical exam and discussion with a provider are the first steps to addressing common concerns of excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain. “Based on treatment, our aim is normal periods, to treat insulin resistance if needed, help patients lose weight/live a healthy lifestyle, and battle the cosmetic consequences. The blood test is a help to see if we can/can’t start medications,” Ana Maria Kausel, MD, a board-certified endocrinologist with a special interest in metabolic disorders including PCOS, obesity, weight loss, and diabetes, tells Mira.

Once a provider assesses your symptoms, a blood test can help examine which medications will be most effective for your treatment. Below is a chart highlighting the most common exams and medications recommended by our expert sources.