Can a doctor diagnose PCOS without an ultrasound?
A diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome is made when at least two out of three of the following criteria are met: – Polycystic ovaries are present on the ultrasound. – High levels of male hormones are in the blood (hyperandrogenism), or symptoms suggesting an excess of male hormones are present (e.g. excessive hair growth, acne etc.). – Menstrual dysfunction (e.g. lack of menses (menstrual flow), menstrual irregularity or lack of ovulation). To make sure the diagnosis of PCOS is correct, a number of other conditions that could cause similar symptoms of menstrual dysfunction have to be excluded. Below are some of the tests your health practitioner may recommend in testing for PCOS and excluding other conditions. Please note: not all tests are necessary in every woman. Tests may include: * Clinical features: A thorough medical history and examination, including weight and BMI. * Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound of the uterus, ovaries and the pelvis. A transvaginal ultrasound is a p
