A pelvic ultrasound scan is a very useful non-invasive tool in making the diagnosis of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) as it allows us to visualize the multiple small ovarian cysts (follicles) which are arranged circumferentially around the ovary like a "string of black pearls" as it is often described.
Women who suffer from PCOS may also have an abnormal hormone profile and this is another way of making the diagnosis in addition to the PCOS symptoms that some women may complain of. It is important to point out that some women who suffer from PCOS may not have polycystic like features on an ultrasound scan.
