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  • Shared Experiences

    What does the name "polycystic ovary/ovarian syndrome" mean to you?

    Related Topics
    Infertility Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Women's Health
    Having polycystic ovaries on ultrasound is not essential for a diagnosis of PCOS. Around 75% of women with PCOS have polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Do we need to revise the name “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome”, to reflect the broader clinical syndrome?

    Jean Hailes for Women's Health is surveying women's attitudes and beliefs on this score, and would greatly appreciate your contribution.

    The survey takes less than 5 min. to complete. Go to www.managingpcos.org.au/resources/survey-about-pcos for more information and a link to the survey.
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  • jewel2013

    HealthShare Member

    Im confused as to how its diagnosed between the two PCOS and polycystic ovaries. My dr told me you need to meet 2 of the following 3 criteria     1.irregular cycles    2.pelvic ultrasound  3. blood test


    I have irregular cycles and the ultrasound showed signs of polycystic ovaries so she diagnosed me with PCOS. Is that a correct diagnosis in australia?Each country has different views on it. I dont have any other symptoms other than irregular cycles and 7 months of TTC along with Many PMS symptoms and also endometriosis 

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  • Jean Hailes for Women's Health

    Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a leader in women’s health, supported by funding from the Australian Government. We provide trusted and easy-to-understand information to … View Profile

    Yes, according to the new Australian guideline that was drawn up last year by Jean Hailes and other organisations to bring together the best available evidence and clinical practice, a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be made when at least two out of three of the following criteria are met:

    • Polycystic ovaries are seen on an ultrasound
    • High levels of ‘male’ hormones are measured in the blood (hyperandrogenism), or symptoms suggesting an excess of these hormones are seen (e.g. excessive hair growth, acne)
    • Menstrual dysfunction (e.g. lack of menstrual flow, menstrual irregularity or lack of ovulation)
    However, before diagnosing PCOS, a doctor would first have to exclude a number of other conditions that might cause similar symptoms of menstrual dysfunction.
    You can find more information on diagnosis and management of PCOS on our website: www.managingpcos.org.au.
    We also have an excellent service at our clinic (Clayton, Vic, but also accessible via video-link from other areas) that helps women to understand and take control of their PCOS: www.managingpcos.org.au/jean-hailes-pcos-service

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  • jewel2013

    HealthShare Member

    thankyou,I am already a member of that page,its all so confusing,what other types of conditions could be similar to my symptoms?

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  • Jean Hailes for Women's Health

    Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a leader in women’s health, supported by funding from the Australian Government. We provide trusted and easy-to-understand information to … View Profile

    Other possible causes of irregular cycles include problems with the thyroid gland, high levels of the hormone prolactin (due to a problem in the pituitary gland) or just the fact that cycles can vary - particularly in the first few years after a young woman's periods start.
    If a woman has experienced irregular cycles (more than 35 or less than 21 days) for two years or more, and if other possible causes including (but not limited to) those above have been excluded, then a doctor should consider PCOS as a diagnosis and arrange for appropriate further assessment or referral.

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