How to Talk to a Doctor About PCOS

One in 10 women has polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS); yet it is one of the most difficult conditions to get diagnosed. This is mainly because PCOS symptoms can vary greatly from woman to woman. Plus, they are often shared with other metabolic disorders. If you suspect that you or a loved one has PCOS, you need to know how to talk to your doctor about it. Read on to learn how.

Instructions

• 1

  Get the facts. Do as much reading as you can about PCOS so that you can have an educated conversation with your doctor. There are many books and websites dedicated to PCOS, and it would be beneficial to bring some of the literature with you to your doctor's appointment.

• 2

  Write down the symptoms you're experiencing so that you can talk about the most common PCOS symptoms and see how you compare. You don't have to suffer from all of the symptoms, but the more you know about your risk factors, the better.

• 3

  Look at your family tree. The doctor will ask for a complete medical history, so the more you know, the better chance you have for a through diagnosis. Of particular importance are the other women in your family, because PCOS is hereditary. Any history of diabetes or infertility is a red flag.

• 4

  Find a doctor who understands the condition. Don't rely on your regular OB/GYN to give you a diagnosis. Instead, seek the help of an endocrinologist. They are more likely to order the correct tests needed to make the assessment. You can also call ahead. Ask the doctor or nurse practitioner if she has any experience with PCOS. If so, how many cases she has seen.

• 5

  Have a goal in mind. Do you want to get pregnant with PCOS or are you simply looking to manage your PCOS symptoms? Having a clear goal in sight will help you and your doctor decide on your next course of action.

• 6

  Show up early and ask a lot of questions. Most women are more comfortable talking about symptoms and problems before a pelvic exam than after; so keep your clothes on and request an office visit.

• 7

  Be ready for a battery of tests. If your doctor suspects PCOS, he will perform a wide array of tests to confirm the diagnosis.