Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy allows direct inspection of the ovaries; the ovaries are enlarged and polycystic. However, polycystic ovaries may appear normal at laparoscopy.

Vaginal Ultrasound Scan (Better than Abdominal)

The vaginal ultrasound may show the typical PCOS appearance but reliability varies with expertise.

Blood Hormone levels of LH, FSH, Androgens and SHBG

Ideally, these tests should be performed during the first four days of the cycle. If the women has no period, then the test can be performed anytime, and repeated if the results do not provide a clear picture.FSH levels are low or normal, LH levels are often raised. However, a normal level does not exclude diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The levels of androgens and testosterone may be raised.The American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) joint consensus meeting in November 2003 agreed that the diagnosis of PCOS should be made when two of the following three criteria are met:

1. Infrequent or Absent Ovulation

2. Hyperandrogenism (Clinical or Biochemical) such as Excess Gair Growth, Acne, raised LH, and raised Androgen Index.

Polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound scan (>12 follicles measuring between 2 and 9mm in diameter) and/or ovarian volume >10ml. The distribution of the follicles are not required and with one ovary sufficient for diagnosis.

Treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Women who wish to Conceive

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) accounts for 90% of women with oligomenorrhoea (infrequent periods) and 30% of women with amenorrhoea (absent of periods) and over 70% of women with anovulation.

Treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Women who do not wish to Conceive

Low-dose contraceptive pills are the best option to restore menstrual regularity. It will decrease ovarian hormone production and help reverse the effects of the excessive androgen levels. However, if you smoke and are over 35 years, birth control pills are not recommended. The doctor may prescribe other hormone treatments such as progesterone tablets. In women with hirsutism or severe acne, treatment with estrogens and anti-androgen such as cyproterone acetate (dianette) may be used.

Metformin

Many women with PCOS have decreased sensitivity to insulin, and their bodies overcompensate by over-producing insulin. Elevated levels of insulin are common in women with PCOS, whether they are obese or thin compared with weight matched controls. Some experts believe that this excess insulin is the underlying cause of PCOS because insulin stimulates androgen production and effects follicular development. As a consequence, Metformin (oral anti-diabetic drug) combined with Clomid, has been used to treat women with PCOS.

Approximately 15% of women discontinue metformin pills because of side effects which are mainly gastrointestinal. Long-acting preparations are associated with fewer side effects. Insulin sensitizing drugs have not been licensed in the UK for use in non diabetic patients. Metformin should not be used when kidney function is abnormal.

Initial studies were encouraging; it reported successful restoration of regular menstrual cycles and fertility. More recent large randomised studies have not observed beneficial effects of metformin in the treatment of ovulation problems in women with PCOS (Human Reproduction 2008; 23:462-77).

Furthermore, potential benefit from the use of metformin in PCOS women undergoing IVF treatment has been reported. It improves the live birth rates and reduces the incidence of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (Tange et al, 2006 Human Reproduction).