Menstruation and Fertility
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Related terms · PCOS · Polycystic Ovaries
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition diagnosed by comprehensively evaluating irregular ovulation, signs of excess male hormones, and ovarian morphology.
Overview
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Please check these three things first
- PCOS is diagnosed by comprehensively evaluating menstrualovulation irregularity, signs of androgen excess, and ovarian morphology, while excluding similar causes.
- A finding of many follicles on an ultrasound or AMHa single result showing high levels does not alone confirm a diagnosis of PCOS.
- Ovulation and menstrual management goals vary depending on pregnancy plans, and metabolic health, such as blood pressure and blood sugar, is also checked.
Meaning and Distinctions
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
We monitor not only menstruation and fertility but also metabolic health and endometrial protection. PCOS is a condition diagnosed by combining irregular ovulation, signs of excess male hormones, and ovarian morphology.
- Easily confused terms
- It cannot be determined solely by the finding of many follicles on an ultrasound.
- Why this is checked during medical evaluation
- Treatment goals for the cycle, metabolism, and ovulation vary depending on whether there are pregnancy plans.
- What to record for your visit
- If you have not had a period for a long time, please confirm whether you are pregnant before seeking medical evaluation.
Learn more
Connecting PCOS to my symptoms
Check diagnostic characteristics and other potential causes together
In adults, we check for characteristics such as irregular menstruation/ovulation, signs of androgen excess (like blood tests or hirsutism), and ovarian morphology. Causes that create similar menstrual changes, such as thyroid or prolactin abnormalities, must also be distinguished. Since adult criteria are not applied directly to adolescents, please consult a medical professional regarding age and the progress since the first period.
Record the menstrual interval and current goals together
Please prepare the start dates of your periods for the last 6-12 months, the longest interval, changes in acne, hirsutism, or scalp hair loss, and test results for weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Depending on whether you want to conceive immediately or manage your period regularly, the tests and treatment goals may differ. If you are taking contraceptives or supplements, please provide the name and start date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions when looking into PCOS
If I am told I have polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound, does that mean I have PCOS?
They do not mean the same thing. Ovarian morphology is just one of the characteristics used for diagnosis; menstrual/ovulation patterns, androgen-related findings, and other causes must be checked together.
If my periods are irregular but I have no plans for pregnancy, is it okay to wait?
If you have not had a period for a long time or the interval continues to lengthen, you must check the cause, endometrial protection, and metabolic health regardless of pregnancy plans. Please seek medical evaluation with a record of your last period date and cycle.
Women's Health Glossary
Compare similar terms here
You can check a brief definition before proceeding to a detailed explanation.Read More
Check guides where this term is used
- Condition GuidePolycystic Ovary SyndromePolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is diagnosed by synthesizing criteria among irregular ovulation and menstruation, symptoms of androgen excess such as acne and hirsutism, and ovarian morphology on ultrasound, while excluding other causes. It cannot be determined by a single finding of many follicles on ultrasound or by irregular menstruation alone. Treatment goals vary depending on whether immediate pregnancy is desired, whether menstruation and endometrial protection are the priority, or whether acne, hirsutism, and metabolic risks need to be managed. If there are pregnancy plans, the evaluation of ovulation and the fertility of both partners should not be delayed.→
- Condition GuideIrregular MenstruationThere is more than one cause of irregular menstruation. First, the possibility of pregnancy is checked, followed by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causing irregular ovulation, thyroid issues, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, stress, hormonal contraceptives, and changes during puberty or the menopausal transition. If the possibility of pregnancy coincides with one-sided pelvic pain, bleeding, or dizziness, or if heavy bleeding causes shortness of breath or a feeling of fainting, an immediate visit to an OB/GYN or emergency evaluation takes priority over a consultation regarding the cause.→
- Medical Evaluation GuideWhat should I prepare before a consultation for women's health conditions?Please record the start date and bleeding dates of your last three cycles, the number of times you changed products on your heaviest day, the location of pain, and your response to painkillers. Regarding discharge and itching, please prepare your test results and previous treatment responses rather than self-diagnosing the odor and color. Please also provide full details on the possibility or planning of pregnancy, ultrasound or blood tests, and any hormone medications, contraceptives, infertility treatment medications, or supplements.→
- Women's Health ColumnMenstrual calendar: Besides the start date, what else should I track to help with treatment?→
Evidence and Update Information
The following materials were referenced to verify the basis and scope of the definitions and treatment explanations.