“I Think I Have PCOS” – 7 Things to Talk to Your Doctor About

I think I have PCOS. What now?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome has many symptoms and this diagnosis can be overwhelming. Here are some points you will want to be sure are covered in your care.

• Are your serum lipid levels normal? Is your HDL – LDL ratio healthy? Is your total cholesterol under 200 mg/dl?  Are your LDL (“lousy” cholesterol) levels below 100 mg/dl and are your HDL (good cholesterol) levels over 35 mg/dl?
• Do you have a normal A₁C?
• Talk to your doctor about Metformin^TM to regulate insulin metabolism.  Sometimes this drug helps regulate ovulation.
• Are your DHEAS blood tests or free testosterone levels (androgen hormone) normal?
• Is your serum prolactin level normal?
• If you are not responding to ovulation induction medications and you have elevated androgen levels, ask if you need dexamethasone to lower your androgen level.
• If you have irregular cycles or unusual heavy vaginal bleeding, has an endometrial biopsy been done to rule out hyperplasia (excessive thickening of the uterine lining)?

If you are saying to yourself, “I think I have PCOS,” we hope this helps you feel more confident when you talk with your doctor about PCOS.

Since PCOS frequently affects fertility, this is an area that we specialize in. You may contact us here if you have questions or would like an appointment. Also, you can seek out PCOS awareness groups such as the PCOS Awareness Association for more information. That way, “I think I have PCOS” can evolve to the point where you understand more about this condition.