Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome involves several steps. Your doctor will take a detailed medical history about your menstrual cycle and reproductive history, including information about methods of birth control and pregnancies. You also will receive a pelvic and physical exam. During a pelvic exam, the doctor is able to feel the swelling of the cysts on your ovary. Once cysts are found, the doctor may perform a vaginal ultrasound, or a screening to examine the cysts and the endometrium (lining of the uterus). If your doctor suspects you have polycystic ovary syndrome, he or she may recommend having blood tests to measure hormone levels. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome can have high levels of hormones, such as testosterone. Your doctor also may test your insulin and glucose levels, to look for diabetes or insulin resistance (inefficient use of insulin in the body). Many women with polycystic ovary syndrome have these conditions. Lastly, your doctor may test your levels of cholesterol and triglycerides since they often are abnormal in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Once your doctor makes a diagnosis, you will work together to decide how to best treat and manage your condition.