— Getting Diagnosed —
There is no test to 100% confirm a person has PCOS. Your doctor is likely to start with discussing of your medical history which is your menstrual periods and weight changes. A doctor may also do a physical exam to check for signs of excess hair growth, insulin resistance and acne.
If your doctor thinks you may have PCOS then they might recommend the following:
- A pelvic exam- Doctor visually and manually inspects your reproductive organs for masses, growths or other abnormalities
- Blood tests- Blood may be analyzed to measure hormone levels. This test can remove possible causes of menstrual abnormalities or androgen excess that is similar to PCOS. You might also get other blood testing to measure glucose tolerance and fasting cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- An ultrasound- Doctor checks the appearance of your ovaries and the thickness of the lining of your uterus. A Transducer is placed in your vagina (transvaginal ultrasound). The transducer emits sound waves that are translated into images on a computer screen.
— Treatment For PCOS —
Lifestyle Changes:
- Maintain a healthy weight. Weight loss can reduce insulin and androgen levels and may restore ovulation
- Limit carbohydrates. Low-fat, high-carbohydrate diets might increase insulin levels
- Be active. Exercise helps lower blood sugar levels
To Help With Ovulation:
- Clomiphene (Clomid)- Oral anti-estrogen medication taken during the first part of menstrual cycle
- Letrozole (Femara)- This breast cancer treatment can work to stimulate the ovaries
- Gonadotropins- Hormone medications are given by injection.
- Birth Control Pills
