How is PCOS Diagnosed?


PCOS is often diagnosed by taking a medical and family history, doing a physical exam, getting blood tests, and possibly getting an ultrasound. Of these 4 things, the most important is a history of irregular periods. If you tell a doctor your periods have been irregular for a prolonged period of time, chances are very high you have PCOS.

There are a series of things that need to be considered and explored to arrive at a diagnosis for PCOS. There is no singular test or criteria that can identify the syndrome as the symptoms and severity of symptoms can vary from patient to patient.

This means PCOS is a diagnosis of exclusion, other possible causes for symptoms are ruled out to arrive at a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Most doctors will do the following
1. physical exam
2. Medical History
3. Family History
4. Bloodwork
5. Possible ultrasound

A person must have two of three following criteria to be diagnosed with PCOS...

1. Androgen Excess
2. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
3. Polycystic Ovaries

Many practioners will also consider doing an evaluation for Insulin Resistance and should include a mental health evaluation.

Who diagnoses PCOS?

PCOS can be diagnosed by any type of health care practioner including nutriotionist, psychologists, primary care physicians, dermatologists, naturopaths, health coaches or anyone whom has an expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS or PCOS related symptoms.

However, the two types of doctors whom most often diagnose and treat the syndrome are endocrinologists and gynecologists.


So Why is getting diagnosed so difficult?

Due to the fact the symptoms and severity of symptoms can vary from patient to patient means some doctors are not seeing the big picture. They will look at symptoms individually rather than collectively and direct treatment to these specific issues only.

PCOS affects various patients in various ways however it should never be left unchecked!

Even if you don't want children, it is essential to treat PCOS. The high insulin and androgens can lead to a host of complications and risks for other more serious conditions


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