Many women present to their OB/Gyn physician with concerns regarding infertility and are subsequently diagnosed with this disorder.  The classic symptoms associated with women who have undiagnosed PCOS include:

• Anovulation
• Infertility
• Unpredictable or prolonged menstruation
• Increased hair growth all over the body (hirsutism)
• Acne
• Obesity.

In many instances, women may begin to present with these symptoms shortly after they begin their menses.  However, it may present later in a woman’s reproductive years as well, especially if the individual has gained a significant amount of weight.  Increased weight gain can result in the increased production of estrogen, creating a hormonal imbalance.

In women with PCOS, a pathognomonic sign is multiple cysts within the ovaries. These cysts can be visualized by a medical provider via trans-vaginal ultrasound.  Due to the excess production of androgens, male-pattern baldness may also be a symptom associated with PCOS.  While most of these signs and symptoms are classic indications of this disorder, each individual is still unique and may present with a variety of different signs and symptoms.  It is imperative as a physician to evaluate each patient individually and evaluate each of their symptoms equally.  Through a physical examination the patient can then be appropriately diagnosed.