How do doctors go about diagnosing PCOS?

Question

I’m switching to a new doctor (1. Because I’ve moved to a new state and 2. Because my last doc told me there’s “no way to test” for PCOS and that I’m “probably fine” 🙄), and I was curious as to how they about about diagnosing it. How did y’all’s doctor diagnose you? Would love some feedback❤️.

Answer

I’m an RN, a soon to be nurse practitioner, AND I have PCOS. There are absolutely criteria to diagnose this. Labs like a testosterone level, US showing multiple small ovarian cysts, and even blood-work showing insulin resistance. Any of these and long menstrual cycles with no ovulation and a diagnosis can officially be made. Also, weight and excess facial hair can factor into the diagnosis. 
My advice— get a new doctor.

Answer

They won't diagnose unless they see multiple cysts at a time during an ultrasound.

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Bloodwork for check for hormone levels that could indicate. Follow with a vaginal ultrasound to confirm.

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They did blood tests with me and my blood results came back all sorts of messed up. then they did an ultra sound and that came back normal.

Answer

Blood work to check all your female hormone levels for hormonal imbalance, if your period is absent for 3+ months and an ultrasound showing cyst on your ovaries are the main three things they will look for. For some people they also look to see if you’re  obese, history of acne, abnormal hair growth (chin hair, happy trail etc.)

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Ultrasound to see the cysts

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I got blood tests, an ultrasound to check for cysts, and went to a dermatologist because they wanted to check for skin conditions related to pcos :)