How to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome?

Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on February 20, 2025
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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 Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I eat to manage polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a lifelong disease that cannot be cured, and it is a metabolic disease, which makes it easy to develop diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a light diet, eat more fruits and vegetables to regulate the body, avoid greasy foods, exercise regularly, and keep the body within the normal range. By doing so, people with this syndrome can live like everyone else. However, if a person with polycystic ovary syndrome goes more than two months without menstruation, they must be treated with progesterone, primarily to prevent endometrial cancer.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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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 Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What to do about amenorrhea in polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can cause amenorrhea, which is related to endocrine issues. Therefore, hormonal medications are required to manage endocrine disorders. The treatment for amenorrhea caused by PCOS generally involves using short-acting contraceptives, but it is also important to consider whether there are any thyroid function abnormalities. Patients who are overweight are usually advised to undergo thyroid function tests, as well as insulin, blood sugar, and lipid profile tests. If necessary, treatment for insulin resistance or thyroid function abnormalities may be required. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the causes of polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common gynecological endocrine disease, often seen in adolescence, primarily characterized by high levels of androgens. Clinically, it is mainly characterized by persistent anovulation and polycystic ovarian changes. It is often accompanied by insulin resistance and obesity. The exact cause of the disease has not yet been fully clarified, and it may be due to the interaction of genetic factors and environmental factors. Polycystic ovary syndrome requires timely treatment with hormonal drugs or laparoscopic ovarian drilling surgery, followed by further management based on the examination results.