Diagnosis
PCOS is diagnosed via blood tests and ultrasounds (Johns Hopkins, 2022). Blood tests are used to measure hormone levels and ultrasounds are used to identify cysts on the ovaries.
The diagnosis criteria for PCOS has had multiple revisions in order to broaden the scope of care.
In 2003, twenty-seven experts on PCOS met in the Netherlands for a conference and produced the “Rotterdam Criteria.” The Rotterdam Criteria is currently the most widely accepted diagnosis criteria for PCOS.
Rotterdam Criteria
- Clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism (excess androgens)
- Evidence of oligo-anovulation (irregular ovulation)
- Polycystic appearing-ovarian morphology on ultrasound
Two out of three criteria need to be met for diagnosis of PCOS (Christ & Cedars, 2023).
Treatment
There is no exact treatment for PCOS, however, eating a proper diet and getting adequate exercise has shown to manage symptoms. Birth control pills and medication to trigger ovulation can also be used to regulate menstrual periods and ovulation (Johns Hopkins, 2022).
