How to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a type of gynecological endocrine disorder. Clinically, it generally presents with symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea, obesity, infertility, acne, and hirsutism. If these symptoms appear, it is essential to visit a hospital for an ultrasound examination. The diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can be made if more than 12 follicles are observed on a single sectional view of the ovaries during the ultrasound. In such cases, it is also necessary to have a blood test at the hospital to analyze six key sex hormones, including the ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone, and the levels of testosterone. If the blood test shows high levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can also be considered. A diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can generally be confirmed through a combination of ultrasound and sex hormone tests, followed by targeted treatment based on the test results.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome?

When suspecting polycystic ovary syndrome in females, it is essential to first inquire about the woman's menstrual history and menstrual cycle. A detailed observation of the woman's body type should be made, as some women may appear somewhat overweight and have increased body hair, such as small mustaches around the lips, and some may even have acne on their faces. In addition, a thorough physical examination should be conducted, including a gynecological examination, where some women may find an increased volume in both ovaries. Hormonal tests can also be conducted, showing elevated levels of androgens, or an imbalance in the levels ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone. Some women may exhibit insulin resistance, with abnormalities in blood glucose and lipid levels. Ultrasound examination can show many small follicles in both ovaries on the same plane, without a dominant follicle, and the number of small follicles generally exceeds 12.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 8sec home-news-image

The difference between polycystic ovary syndrome and polycystic ovaries

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovaries are different. Firstly, polycystic ovaries are diagnosed through ultrasound, wherein more than 12 small follicles are found in both ovaries simultaneously under ultrasound guidance. This condition can occur in some normal women as well as women who have been taking short-acting birth control pills for a long time. In subsequent check-ups, this condition might not be detected. On the other hand, polycystic ovary syndrome is a disease represented by a cluster of clinical symptoms. For instance, women may experience infrequent ovulation, longer menstrual cycles, and it can also lead to infertility. There are also manifestations of increased androgen levels, such as increased body hair and facial acne. Polycystic ovary syndrome primarily affects a woman's normal fertility functions and thus requires treatment; whereas, polycystic ovaries usually just require observation.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is the best treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome varies greatly among individuals, and clinical manifestations are very different. The specific condition of each person is different, hence the treatment methods also vary. Therefore, there is no single best way to treat it; treatment should be tailored to the individual. For example, if one can maintain a good condition with relatively regular menstrual cycles and it does not affect pregnancy, then no special treatment might be necessary. However, if there is a long absence of menstrual periods, then treatment such as using birth control pills to regulate hormones may be necessary. Some people may also have concurrent conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or insulin resistance, and treatment for these conditions should be based on specific test results.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How is polycystic ovary syndrome treated?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is mainly treated symptomatically, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and surgical treatment. Medication involves regulating menstrual cycles, reducing blood androgen levels, improving insulin resistance, and inducing ovulation; the main surgical treatment currently used is laparoscopic ovarian drilling.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to cultivate dominant follicles in polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial disease and a polymorphic clinical endocrine syndrome, characterized mainly by hyperandrogenism and chronic anovulation. It is one of the most common causes of menstrual irregularities in women of reproductive age and is also a cause of female infertility. Women often desire to have children and upon discovering they have polycystic ovary syndrome, they may use ovulation-inducing drugs under the advice of a doctor. Ovulation-inducing drugs can help develop dominant follicles. If you have tried a wide range of Western medicines with limited success, you can also consider using traditional Chinese patent medicine or herbs under a doctor’s prescription to further cultivate dominant follicles. Because the development of dominant follicles requires expertise, it must be conducted under the direction and advice of professional medical practitioners. If you have further questions, it is advisable to consult a doctor at a hospital for more detailed information.