pcos-test
PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting millions of people and can affect your fertility if left untreated. Luckily, there are many ways to test for PCOS, such as with blood panels and ultrasounds, so that the best treatment can be provided for your needs. 

In this article you’ll learn exactly what PCOS is and how it can affect fertility, how to test for it, and treatments available.

What is PCOS?

Also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries, typically during their reproductive years. In a person with PCOS, the androgen hormone levels (male hormones) are typically high, cysts are common on the ovaries, and periods tend to be either infrequent or last for several days.

It can be difficult for a person with PCOS to become pregnant due to the hormonal imbalances caused by the disorder, which disrupts the menstrual cycle. It also can prevent people from ovulating or to have irregular ovulation. The high androgen levels can also cause the follicles on ovaries containing eggs to prevent the eggs from maturing and/or releasing.

Symptoms of PCOS can include:

  • Infertility (due to irregular or absent ovulation)
  • Irregular Menstrual Cycles
  • Polycystic Ovaries (small cysts known as follicles on the ovaries)
  • Acne
  • Excessive Hair Growth
  • Rapid Weight Gain
  • Insulin Resistance (leading to higher levels of insulin in the bloodstream)
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Chronic Inflammation (affecting the lining of the uterus and the body as a whole)
  • Pelvic Pain

How To Test For PCOS

If you suspect you might have PCOS or are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to receive an evaluation from a medical professional to determine the root cause of your symptoms through testing.

Testing for PCOS typically includes a variety of methods. Your healthcare provider will determine the method(s) of testing that are most appropriate for you, which can include a combination of the below:

  • Taking your medical history and conducting a symptom assessment (including any menstrual irregularities)
  • Conducting a physical exam (including checking your body mass index)
  • Pelvic ultrasound to detect ovarian cysts or follicles
  • Blood tests to check your hormone levels (including LH, FSH, testosterone, and insulin)
  • Blood glucose tests
  • Thyroid function tests

The above innovative testing is important for confirming if you have PCOS and also enables your fertility specialist to determine where to apply specific treatments.

how to test for pcos

Treatment for PCOS

If you are diagnosed with PCOS, treatment with a functional and holistic fertility specialist will often include a combination of treatments. Each person receives a specific plan based on their needs, which can include:
  • Nutritional Therapy (oral or IV)
  • Neural Therapy
  • Peptides
  • Herbs
  • Minerals
  • Coaching and Education
  • Ongoing Support (to ensure you are correctly following the treatment plan)
  • Weight loss programming when needed
During your first appointment, your fertility specialist will listen to your concerns, conduct a medical history, and perform a whole-body energy scan with your consent. If PCOS is suspected, testing will be collected and treatment can begin.

PCOS Testing and Treatment with Road to Fertility

Road to Fertility specializes in functional medicine for fertility issues, including for those with PCOS. Dr. Yuabova Marina, DNP, APRN, BC, Naturopathic Doctor and her compassionate team treat infertility with natural treatments that work in harmony with your body. We approach infertility caused by PCOS by combining functional medicine with quantum energy and quantum diagnostics, which are turned into healing energies.
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