Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
How PCOS is diagnosed with symptoms, hormone and sugar tests and ultrasound.
There is no single test for PCOS. A doctor diagnoses it by looking at symptoms and ruling out other causes.
Rotterdam criteria (two of three)
Examination
Height, weight, waist, blood pressure, hair growth (Ferriman-Gallwey score), acne, hair loss and dark skin patches.
Blood tests
Ultrasound
Pelvic ultrasound looks at ovary size, follicle number and the lining of the uterus. A transvaginal scan gives better detail in adults, and an abdominal scan can be used if that is not suitable.
Screening for related problems
Blood pressure, sleep apnoea, fatty liver, mood and anxiety.
Ayurvedic view
Ayurvedic assessment does not replace hormone tests and ultrasound for diagnosis.
See a doctor if you have irregular periods with acne or excess hair, or have trouble conceiving.
When to get help
See a gynaecologist or endocrinologist if your periods are very irregular or absent, you have rapid hair growth or hair loss, you have been trying to conceive for 6 to 12 months, or you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as thirst and frequent urination.
Remember
PCOS is diagnosed by pattern and exclusion. Having cysts on a scan alone does not mean PCOS.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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