How polycystic ovarian diseases (PCOD) are diagnosed in ultrasonography?

In PCOD the ovaries are increased in size. The mean volume of the ovary is 12.5 cubic cm with a range from 6 to 30 cubic cm.

The classical anatomic criteria may not be present in all patients with clinical or endocrine findings suggestive of PCOD. Therefore, an ultrasound showing ovarian enlargement can help in making the diagnosis. But It does not mean that a normal ultrasound study with normal size ovaries rule out PCOD if the clinical or biochemical abnormalities characteristic of the syndrome are present.

Ultrasound may also suggest the diagnosis of PCOD in a patient with normal sized ovaries and the clinical and or endocrine criteria of PCOD by confirming anovulation.

These are the typical findings of sonography in a case of PCOD.

• Enlarged ovary (more than 8 cubic cm)
• Multiple small cysts (0.2-0.6 cm)
• Anovulation (lack of follicular development)
• Resting or follicular endometrium

PCOS/ PCOD: How Do I Know?

What is PCOS?

• The full form of PCOS is Poly Cystic Ovarian syndrome. This disease is also known as Stein Leventhal Syndrome or, PCOD (Poly Cystic Ovarian Disease).
  
• 6 –10 % women get affected by this disease and many of them are not aware of their presence.
  
• Though this disease is not curable but treatment is available to alleviate the symptoms.
  
• This is one of the major reasons for the women, who are unable to conceive.
  
• The effect of the disease process is more serious than just infertility.
  
• Don't think it is only a cosmetic problem.
  

What are the symptoms and findings of PCOS/ PCOD:

• Irregular or, no menstruation.
  
• Multiple small cysts in the ovaries. Though common but not consistent finding.
  
• High Blood pressure.
  
• Excessive pimples.
  
• Rise in the level if insulin, Insulin resistance or type II Diabetes.
  
• Unable to conceive or infertility.
  
• Excessive hair on face and body.
  
• Hair fall and male type of baldness.
  
• Gain in weight particularly central obesity.
  

Know whether you are a victim of PCOS by this small survey:

There are many other hormonal irregularities which may cause menstrual problems and some of the other symptoms, which may mimic PCOS. It is very important to diagnose whether it is PCOS or not?

Here are twelve questions for you to answer in yes or no format. If 5 or, more turn to be yes, there is fair possibility that, you may be suffering from PCOS.

1. You menstruate 8 or, less times in a year?
   
2. Have you ever experienced no menstruation for 4 months or more?
   
3. Do you suffer from irregular periods or, just stains at times?
   
4. Are you facing problem to conceive?
   
5. Do you have excessive hair on your face or body?
   
6. Are you irritated with your pimples?
   
7. You are losing your hair regularly?
   
8. Do you have velvet kind of skin near your neck?
   
9. Have you suddenly gained some weight?
   
10. You are getting fatter at your hip?
    
11. Do you love to take sweets or feel dizzy after taking food?
    
12. Any one of your first degree relative has Type II Diabetes?
    

If this survey result is 5+ for you, consult a gynaecologist immediately. As previously mentioned, PCOS is more than infertility and cosmetic problem. There is increased chance of endometrial cancer, heart diseases, and diabetes related complications. Proper and timely treatment, which is long term, will save you from lots of complications.