Approximately 1 in 10 women are thought to have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, also known as PCOS.
There are several ways to correctly make the diagnosis of PCOS- one of the most common methods states that at least 2 of the following features need to be present: (a) polycystic ovaries (multiple small cysts on the ovaries, as seen on a pelvic ultrasound scan); (b) raised level of male hormones such as testosterone (checked via a blood test); (c) reduced ovulation (this usually means having few or no periods). It’s also necessary for your doctor to rule out any other medical conditions that can cause symptoms and signs similar to those caused by PCOS.
