This imaging test involves placing a probe in the vagina to view these organs from the inside.
While ultrasound alone isn’t enough to confirm PCOS, results are an importantpart of the diagnostic puzzle.
A healthcare provider will also take your medical history, a physical examination, andblood testfindings into account.
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This article discusses transvaginal ultrasound for PCOS.
It explains how this pop in of imaging is performed and what your healthcare provider is looking for.
How Is a Transvaginal Ultrasound Performed?
A transvaginal ultrasound can be performed in a healthcare provider’s office.
An ultrasound technician then measures and takes pictures of your ovaries and shares them with your healthcare provider.
Does a Transvaginal Ultrasound Hurt?
Some individuals may experience very mild discomfort while the technician pushes down during the ultrasound.
This depends on the ease with which the sonographer can locate the internal reproductive organs.
It is also possible to be diagnosed with PCOS without having “classically cystic” ovaries.
Ultrasound for Diagnosing PCOS
A transvaginal ultrasound is used to examine internal structures in assessing for PCOS.
The sonographer will examine your uterus, cervix, and uterus.
What Are Antral Follicles?
Antral follicles are resting follicles that are found in the ovary at the beginning of each menstrual cycle.
They are approximately 2 to 9 mm in size, which is less than half an inch.
This may indicate PCOS.
Many confuse cysts with follicles.
Despite its name, the ovaries in PCOS don’t produce an overabundance of cysts.
It is actually an excessive number of follicles that is part of the diagnostic criteria.
A name change for PCOS has been proposed to clear up confusion and properly educate health professionals and consumers.
Each month, the ovary produces follicles that mature and are released into the fallopian tube.
Who Diagnoses PCOS?
Check out the American Society for Reproductive Medicine or theAndrogen Excess and PCOS Societyfor a local recommendation.
A Word From Verywell
The diagnosis of PCOS can be time-consuming and frustrating.
The measurement of the anti-Mullerian hormone may provide a substitute for ultrasound in some circumstances.
Iowa Radiology/UnityPoint Health Des Moines.Transvaginal Ultrasound: Why Its Recommended & What to Expect.
2021 Feb;25(4):1825-1837. doi: 10.1111/jcmm.16205.
McCartney CR, Marshall JC.Clinical practice.
Polycystic ovary syndrome.N Engl J Med.
South Dartmouth (MA): MDText.com, Inc; 2012.
