Symptoms and Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
By Nicole Galan, RN, About.com Guide
Symptoms of PCOS

Find out the many of the symptoms of PCOS. Also, get definitions for PCOS terms.
- Symptoms of PCOS
- When Do Symptoms of PCOS Usually Appear?
- Abnormal Hair Growth
- Infertility
- Absent Periods
- Ovarian Cysts
Seeing the Doctor
Seeing a doctor can be anxiety producing. Learn here about what to expect when you finally make that appointment.
Other Diseases the Doctor May Rule Out
Before your doctor will consider diagnosing you with PCOS, he will determine if other common diseases may be the cause of your symptoms. Here are the other diseases he may consider.
- What is Thyroid Disease?
- What is Late Onset Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia?
- What is Cushing's Syndrome?
- What is Hyperprolactinemia?
Diagnostic Testing

Learn about some of the tests that your doctor may order, plus what all those results mean.
- Endometrial Biopsy
- Before You Have a Transvaginal Ultrasound
- How Do I Know if I Have Insulin Resistance?
Health Review

This section will give you background information about the body, as well as the roles of the various hormones. Because PCOS affects many hormonal systems, this is a good start to learning about PCOS and how it can affect you!
PCOS Through the Lifespan
Because there is no cure for PCOS, women with this disease have it through their entire life. As a result, their needs and concerns will vary depending on their time of life.
