PCOS - Diagnosis

Though symptoms like irregular menstrual period, pelvic pain, hair loss, unwanted hair on face & body, sudden weight gain and acne are some of the evident symptoms of PCOS, to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions that might have caused the symptoms, our doctors will talk to you about your family’s medical history, including whether your mother or sister has PCOS or problems getting pregnant. This information is helpful, as PCOS tends to run in families. He may suggest some tests like:

Pelvic exam: Our female doctor will look at and feel the areas of your body including the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum, checking for anything unusual and then suggest a pelvic ultrasound.

Pelvic ultrasound (sonogram): An ultrasound of your pelvic region produces an image of what your ovaries look like. The doctor will check for cysts in your ovaries and how thick the lining is in your uterus. That lining appears thicker than normal if your periods are delayed and irregular.

Your ovaries may be 1½ to 3 times larger than normal when you have PCOS. The ultrasound can show ovary changes in about 90 per cent of women who have PCOS.

Blood tests: Blood tests are done to measure hormonal levels (androgens) in your body. It may also be done to assess the levels of other reproductive hormones that may affect your menstruation. Our doctors may also test your cholesterol and insulin levels.