Diagnosis and Tests
The Diagnosis of PCOS depends upon the following factor:
• Medical History:
Your Health Care Provider (HCP) may ask questions about the changes in menstrual periods, weight changes, and other signs and symptoms, such as acne and facial hairs.
• Physical Examination:
As it may be associated with obesity and cardiovascular disorders, therefore physical examination includes your weight and blood pressure check-up.
• Pelvic Examination:
During a pelvic exam, your HCP inspects your reproductive organs visually and manually, for signs of masses, growths, or other abnormalities.
• Blood Tests:
Blood tests are done to measure the levels of several hormones to exclude possible causes of menstrual abnormalities or androgen excess that can cause it. Additional blood testing may include fasting cholesterol and triglyceride levels as it is generally associated with cardiovascular disorders. Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTT) are also done as 30-80 percent of women suffering from PCOS have insulin resistance at some level.
• Ultrasound:
A pelvic ultrasound can show the appearance of ovaries and the thickness of the uterus lining. Enlarged ovaries containing numerous small cysts can be detected by transvaginal ultrasound.
