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HOMA-IR Calculator

Enter your fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels to calculate your insulin resistance score.

Both values must be from a fasting blood draw (at least 8 hours without food).

What Is HOMA-IR?

HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is a calculation that estimates how insulin resistant your body is, using just two numbers from a fasting blood test: glucose and insulin.

It's one of the most practical ways to detect insulin resistance early — often years before fasting glucose becomes abnormal. This is especially important for women with PCOS, where insulin resistance is a root cause in ~70% of cases.

The Formula

HOMA-IR = (Fasting Insulin × Fasting Glucose) ÷ 405

Glucose in mg/dL, Insulin in µIU/mL

What the Scores Mean

HOMA-IRInterpretation
< 1.0Optimal insulin sensitivity
1.0 – 1.9Borderline — early insulin resistance
2.0 – 2.9Moderate insulin resistance
≥ 3.0Significant insulin resistance

HOMA-IR and PCOS

Insulin resistance is the #1 metabolic driver of PCOS. High insulin stimulates the ovaries to produce excess androgens (testosterone), which causes acne, hair loss, irregular periods, and difficulty conceiving. Improving insulin sensitivity often improves all PCOS symptoms.

Read more: PCOS and Insulin Resistance: What It Is and How to Fix It →

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Important Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational purposes only. HOMA-IR is a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis. Always discuss your lab results with your healthcare provider. Do not start or stop medications based on this calculator alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

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