Symptoms and Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
By Nicole Galan, RN, About.com Guide to PCOS
Find information about the many symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Learn about some of the tests that your doctor may order, and what the results mean.
- Symptoms of PCOS
- Seeing the Doctor
- Other Diseases the Doctor May Rule Out
- Diagnostic Testing
- Health Review
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.
- Diagnosis of PCOS
- What to Rule Out When Diagnosing PCOS
- Before You See an Infertility Specialist
- Infertility Worksheet
- Should I See a Specialist to Treat My PCOS?
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!

