Ordering the Cortisol, PM Test
Cortisol, PM is a blood test that measures the level of cortisol, a hormone made by your adrenal glands, in the afternoon or evening. This test helps check for problems with your adrenal or pituitary glands, which can affect how your body handles stress, blood sugar, and energy. Interestingly, cortisol levels naturally drop in the evening, so testing at this time can reveal patterns that a morning test might miss.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Check for adrenal gland issues that may cause tiredness or weakness
- Monitor treatment for conditions like Addison’s disease or Cushing’s syndrome
- Find out if your pituitary gland is working as it should
- Track changes in cortisol levels over time for better management of symptoms
- Identify hormone imbalances that may affect sleep or mood
Who Might Benefit from Afternoon Cortisol Screening
People who feel unusually tired in the afternoon, have trouble sleeping, or notice changes in their weight or mood may benefit from this test. For example, someone who feels very sleepy after lunch and struggles to stay focused at work might want to check their afternoon cortisol levels to see if a hormone imbalance is the cause.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Have ongoing muscle weakness or unexplained weight changes
- Experience frequent headaches or dizziness in the afternoon
- Are being treated for adrenal or pituitary gland conditions and need to track progress
- Notice changes in blood pressure, especially later in the day
- Have a family history of hormone disorders and want to check for early signs
Testing in the afternoon can show if your body is making the right amount of cortisol at the right time, which is important for managing energy, blood sugar, and stress. Delaying this test could mean missing changes in hormone patterns that are only seen later in the day, making it harder to find the cause of your symptoms.
Preparing for Your Afternoon Cortisol Blood Draw
Fasting is not needed for this test, but your blood should be drawn in the afternoon, usually between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you, as timing and preparation can affect your results.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Cortisol, PM
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of Cortisol, PM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cortisol | 3-10 | Cortisol is a hormone made by your adrenal glands that helps control blood sugar, manage stress, and support your immune system. This test checks your cortisol level in the afternoon, when it should be lower than in the morning. |
High levels mean your body may be making too much cortisol, which can be linked to Cushing’s syndrome, stress, or certain tumors.
Low levels mean your adrenal glands may not be making enough cortisol, which can be a sign of Addison’s disease or pituitary problems. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Cortisol, PM FAQ
Is there Cortisol, PM testing near me?
You can find a nearby location for Cortisol, PM using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. For those who need afternoon blood draws due to fluctuating symptoms, having a convenient site makes it easier to get tested at the right time of day.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the Cortisol, PM test includes all fees, including sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it if you have unexplained tiredness or changes in energy, as it can help pinpoint hormone-related causes.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3 to 6 months if you are monitoring a known adrenal or pituitary condition, or as your doctor suggests based on your symptoms. Regular testing helps track changes in your hormone levels and supports better management of your treatment plan.
How accurate is the test?
Cortisol, PM is measured using immunoassay technology, which is highly specific for cortisol in blood samples. The test has a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 97%. All tests at TrueHealthLabs.com are performed by CLIA-certified labs, meeting strict quality and precision standards.
Important Notes
None.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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