Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is diagnosed through a series of tests and a close examination of the patient's medical history.

DR. GRIFFITH: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a metabolic disturbance. It can interfere with regular ovulation and regular menstruation. This is a diagnosis that must be made after taking a careful history and ruling out other potential endocrine problems such as problems with their thyroid or adrenal gland or with the pituitary. After blood tests and history confirm the diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome, we must also test for insulin resistance as this may also contribute to the syndrome. Most folks can be treated with lifestyle modifications and oral medications. Most folks do not require intensive therapy such as injectibles and IVF.