Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can feel confusing and overwhelming. If you're wondering whether you might have PCOS, it’s important to know what tests are needed for a diagnosis and what the criteria are. Here’s a quick and easy guide to what the diagnosis of PCOS involves and what you can expect.
PCOS isn’t diagnosed by just one test. Instead, doctors use a combination of criteria to make a diagnosis. You need to meet at least two out of three specific conditions to be diagnosed with PCOS:
Polycystic ovaries: This means that your ovaries are larger than normal or have many small follicles (often misinterpreted as cysts). An ultrasound can help identify polycystic ovaries.
Meeting two of these three criteria confirms a PCOS diagnosis. Here’s a closer look at the tests and evaluations involved:
Medical history and physical exam
Blood tests
Pelvic ultrasound
Getting an accurate diagnosis is important for managing PCOS effectively. Knowing you have PCOS allows you to:
Manage symptoms: Treatment can help regulate your menstrual cycle, reduce hair growth, clear up acne, and help with weight management.
Reduce health risks: PCOS is linked to other health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnoea. Early diagnosis can help you take steps to prevent these problems.
Prevent serious health issues: If you have fewer than 4 periods a year or your periods have stopped altogether, you may be at increased risk of endometrial cancer. Medications can help trigger a period and reduce this risk.
Plan for pregnancy: If you’re trying to conceive, understanding your PCOS can help you and your doctor develop a fertility plan tailored to your needs.
For women with PCOS who are struggling to conceive, In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) can be a highly effective fertility treatment. PCOS often causes irregular ovulation or anovulation (lack of ovulation), making it difficult to achieve pregnancy naturally.
IVF bypasses this issue by allowing the eggs to be retrieved and fertilised outside the body, before being implanted into the uterus. Additionally, IVF offers the possibility of better controlling and monitoring the ovarian response, which is crucial for women with PCOS who may be at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Read more about ovarian stimulation regimes here.
If you're dealing with PCOS and facing challenges with fertility, IVF can be a promising step towards achieving your dream of parenthood.
If you've been trying to conceive for a year or more without success, it may be time to consult a fertility specialist. At Care Fertility, we offer comprehensive evaluations and customised plans to support you on your journey. We know that managing PCOS while trying to conceive can be challenging, and we're here to provide the care and expertise you need.
If you suspect you have PCOS or have been trying to conceive without success, your first step should be gathering information about your condition. Consult your GP or a fertility specialist, providing details about your menstrual cycle, any PCOS symptoms, and how long you've been trying to conceive. This information is crucial in creating an effective treatment plan. For more guidance on how to start, including navigating the NHS referral process, read our guide.
We know that dealing with PCOS can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Care Fertility, we’re here to guide you through the process, providing the tests you need and the support you deserve on your fertility journey. Reach out to us today – we’re here to make sure you feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.
Hearing from others who have faced similar challenges can be comforting. Read Stephanie’s story, where she shares her experience with PCOS and IVF at Care Fertility. Her journey highlights the importance of seeking help early and how personalised care can make a significant difference.