General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
A missed period can have causes other than PCOS, including pregnancy. When pregnancy is possible, lower abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding calls for urgent medical consultation. This takes priority over a PCOS assessment or a prevention appointment.
This explanation concerns polycystic ovary syndrome in adult women. Describe period dates, irregularity and any changes in body hair, acne or scalp hair. Symptoms vary and are not all present in every person.
Here, “polycystic” refers to many small follicles rather than true cysts. This ultrasound appearance alone does not diagnose PCOS. The doctor considers it alongside ovulation problems and clinical or laboratory signs of androgen excess.
Ultrasound criteria can only be interpreted at least eight years after puberty; they are not used for diagnosis in adolescents. Ultrasound is not always necessary. This limit on interpretation is not a reason to wait before consulting.
The doctor chooses hormone tests and, according to symptoms, looks for other hormonal disorders. Report your contraception, which can affect assessment, and ask when to have the tests. Any change is decided with the prescriber; do not stop it on your own.
If PCOS is confirmed, explain your priorities: troublesome symptoms, pregnancy plans or psychological difficulties. Care is adapted to the person and also includes monitoring associated problems. These discussions help organise medical follow-up.
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