If you are wondering, you may already have had the tests that are used to diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Many women come to this moment through infertility problems but others get here through the physical changes this syndrome can cause. Many of the tests used rule out other possibilities, since there is no one specific test to diagnose PCOS.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is also called Stein-Leventhal syndrome. It is actually the most common hormonal problem for women and a well-documented cause of infertility.
One typical symptom of PCOS is overproduction of male sex hormones, androgens. Other symptoms include weight gain, irregular periods or absence of periods, cysts on the ovaries, abnormal hair growth, and some skin changes.
When meeting your physician you need to tell him all about the symptoms you experience. Even though he probably makes some physical examinations this information is useful when diagnosing the condition you have.
If you have changes in hair growth, he will want to see it. So, allowing the hair to grow for a few days is a good idea. He may do a pelvic exam to check for indications of ovarian cysts.
If your symptoms are clear, it is certain he orders a blood draw for many different laboratory tests. The metabolic panel and the complete blood count, or CBC, is probably ordered.
PCOS and insulin resistance are shown to be connected with each other, even though it is not known which one comes first. That is why your blood sugar levels during the last three months is one of the first things to exam.
There are also some hormone tests that can be used in diagnosing PCOS. For example, the ratio between luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is normally close to one. If there is more LH than FSH, it can be a sign of PCOS.
Another hormones that will be checked are testosterone and DHEA-S. These hormones are common for both women and men.
Because PCOS cannot be diagnosed using some specific test your doctor will make his diagnosis according to laboratory and physical findings. It is a combination of several different things.
It is possible that he orders some other tests as well. Ultrasound is typically performed to see whether there are any ovarian cysts present, and make sure that fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus are normal. Sometimes even small surgical operation may be necessary.
There is no known cure for PCOS. However, there are some treatment options that can help to get relief for the symptoms. Often natural remedies for PCOS are the most effective ones. Watching your diet and regular exercise can make wonders for your symptoms.
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