Diagnosis

See your GP if you have any typical symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) .

Your GP will ask about your symptoms to help rule out other possible causes and they'll check your blood pressure .

They'll also arrange for youto have a number of hormone tests to find out whether the excess hormone production is caused by PCOS or another hormone-related condition.

You may also need an Ultrasound scan , which can show whetheryou have a high number of follicles in your ovaries (polycystic ovaries). The follicles are fluid-filled sacs in which eggs develop.

You may also need a blood test to measure your hormone levels and to screen for diabetes or high cholesterol .

Diagnosis criteria

A diagnosis of PCOS can usually be made if other rare causes of the same symptoms have been ruled out and you meet at least two of the following three criteria:

  • you have irregular periods or infrequent periodsthisindicates that your ovaries don't regularly release eggs (ovulate)
  • blood tests showing you havehigh levels of "male hormones", such as testosterone (or sometimes just the signs of excess male hormones, even if the blood test is normal)
  • scans showing you have polycystic ovaries

As only two of theseneed to be present to diagnose PCOS, you won't necessarily need to have an ultrasound scan before the condition can be confirmed.

Referral to a specialist

If you're diagnosed with PCOS, you may be treated by your GP or referred to a specialist either a gynaecologist (specialist in treating conditions of the female reproductive system) or an endocrinologist (specialist in treating hormone problems).

Your GP or specialist will discuss with you the best way to manage your symptoms. They'll recommend lifestyle changes, and start you on any necessary medication.

Follow-up

Depending on factors like your age and weight, you may be offered annual checks of your blood pressure and screening for diabetes, if you're diagnosed with PCOS.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016