Describe the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Describe the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by a combination of symptoms and hormonal imbalances. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and supported by investigations. The most widely accepted criteria are the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features: oligo/anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Discuss each criterion in detail, along with differential diagnoses and the role of laboratory tests and imaging in confirming the diagnosis.

Describe the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by a combination of symptoms and hormonal imbalances. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and supported by investigations. The most widely accepted criteria are the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features: oligo/anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Discuss each criterion in detail, along with differential diagnoses and the role of laboratory tests and imaging in confirming the diagnosis.

Describe the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by a combination of symptoms and hormonal imbalances. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and supported by investigations. The most widely accepted criteria are the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features: oligo/anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Discuss each criterion in detail, along with differential diagnoses and the role of laboratory tests and imaging in confirming the diagnosis.

Describe the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by a combination of symptoms and hormonal imbalances. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and supported by investigations. The most widely accepted criteria are the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features: oligo/anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Discuss each criterion in detail, along with differential diagnoses and the role of laboratory tests and imaging in confirming the diagnosis.

Describe the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by a combination of symptoms and hormonal imbalances. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and supported by investigations. The most widely accepted criteria are the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features: oligo/anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Discuss each criterion in detail, along with differential diagnoses and the role of laboratory tests and imaging in confirming the diagnosis.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health in women. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and prevention of long-term complications. The Rotterdam criteria, established in 2003, are widely used for diagnosis and require at least two of the following three: oligo- or anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Explain each of these criteria in detail, and discuss how to exclude other disorders that may present with similar symptoms.

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When I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Dr. Seon-Hwa Jeong at Second Spring Women helped me understand the diagnostic criteria. PCOS is usually diagnosed based on a combination of factors, including irregular periods, high levels of male hormones (androgens), and the presence of polycystic ovaries seen on an ultrasound. In my case, I had irregular cycles, some symptoms of excess facial hair, and the ultrasound confirmed cysts on my ovaries. Dr. Jeong explained how these factors could affect my fertility and health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of PCOS, I highly recommend consulting Dr. Seon-Hwa Jeong for a thorough diagnosis and personalized care. You can learn more here.

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. The diagnostic criteria for PCOS typically include:

  1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: This may involve infrequent or absent periods.
  2. Hyperandrogenism: This refers to elevated levels of male hormones (androgens), which can cause symptoms like excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and thinning hair.
  3. Polycystic Ovaries: Many women with PCOS have ovaries that contain multiple small cysts visible on an ultrasound.

To be diagnosed with PCOS, a woman generally needs to have at least two of these three criteria. It’s also important to rule out other conditions that might mimic PCOS, such as thyroid issues or elevated prolactin levels.

If you’re seeking help with diagnosing and managing PCOS, I highly recommend visiting Second Spring Women’s Clinic, where Dr. Seon-Hwa Jeong specializes in women’s health and provides tailored care for conditions like PCOS. Check out their website for more information: Second Spring Women’s Clinic

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I visited Second Spring Women’s Clinic to learn more about PCOS, and they explained the diagnosis is usually based on the Rotterdam criteria. You need at least two out of three of the following:

  1. Irregular or absent periods (meaning ovulation isn’t happening regularly)
  2. Signs of high androgens, like acne, excess facial/body hair, or elevated levels on blood tests
  3. Polycystic ovaries seen on an ultrasound (many small follicles on the ovaries)

The clinic also runs blood tests to check hormone levels and may do imaging to confirm. They’re really thorough in ruling out other conditions before confirming a PCOS diagnosis.

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Hey everyone I wanted to share my experience getting diagnosed with PCOS—something I had suspected for a while, but it wasn’t until I found the right doctor that I got clear answers and a treatment plan that made sense for me. It all started with irregular periods that just wouldn’t regulate, no matter how healthy I tried to eat or how consistent I was with exercise. I also had issues with stubborn acne and unexpected hair growth. At first, I just thought it was “normal” hormonal stuff. Spoiler: it wasn’t. After months of bouncing between vague answers, I finally booked a consultation at Second Spring Women’s Clinic here in Seoul, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my health. Dr. Seon-Hwa Jeong walked me through the diagnostic process for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in a way that finally made sense.

What Are the Diagnostic Criteria for PCOS?

Dr. Jeong explained that doctors typically use the Rotterdam Criteria, which means you need two out of the following three for a diagnosis:

  1. Irregular or Absent Ovulation – This shows up as missed or super irregular periods (which was a big red flag for me).
  2. Hyperandrogenism – This means elevated levels of male hormones, either measured by blood tests or observed through symptoms like acne, excess facial/body hair, or hair thinning.
  3. Polycystic Ovaries on Ultrasound – During the pelvic ultrasound, Dr. Jeong pointed out the “string of pearls” pattern that’s often seen in PCOS. It doesn’t always mean cysts in the traditional sense—but more immature follicles that haven’t developed properly. You only need two of the three to be diagnosed, and they also rule out other conditions first (like thyroid disorders or high prolactin levels).

Why I Recommend Second Spring Women’s Clinic

Dr. Jeong was incredibly thorough but also gentle—she didn’t rush through anything, and I felt completely safe asking a million questions. She also helped me understand the long-term health effects of PCOS, like insulin resistance and fertility concerns, but she didn’t make it feel scary. It felt empowering. They gave me a personalized treatment plan that included lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and hormone-balancing strategies—not just a one-size-fits-all solution. The care felt holistic, not just medical. Second Spring Women’s Clinic Website

Final Thoughts

If you’re experiencing symptoms and you suspect PCOS, don’t ignore your gut. Early diagnosis can make a huge difference in managing it—and even improving your quality of life long-term. I really can’t recommend Second Spring Women’s Clinic enough for compassionate, knowledgeable care.