Diagnosis

There is no single distinctive examination or fertility test to diagnose PCOS, however, PCOS patients usually have elevated androgens (male hormones)and cysts can often be observed on the ovaries. There is a strong association between PCOS and insulin resistance with at least 50 percent of women with PCOS being insulin resistant.

Several blood tests will be conducted including androgen levels fasting comprehensive lipid panel, glucose, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), free testosterone, prolactin and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

"Syndrome X" is a new term, which denotes a combination of insulin resistance or diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and central obesity. While insulin resistance and type II diabetes are frequently associated with obesity, there are thin women who are afflicted as well. Syndrome X may be identified in women with PCOS.