Patient's question:
Every month, I feel particularly troubled, mainly because of my monthly period. It's always irregular—either early or delayed—and the flow is heavy with blood clots, accompanied by abdominal pain and discomfort. I'd like to consult about this: could long-term menstrual irregularity like this be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?Doctor's answer:
Irregular menstruation for a long time may indicate the possibility of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Specifically, whether it is necessary to have blood tests for hormone levels on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle, when the bleeding is heavier, to check the specific reasons and circumstances. Generally, if it is PCOS, the luteinizing hormone (LH) is three times the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Additionally, during ovulation, a transvaginal ultrasound may reveal more than 10 follicles. Although there are follicles, pregnancy is generally not possible because they do not grow to normal size.