Polycystic ovaries are larger than normal ovaries. Technically this is when the number of the follicles (fluid filled spaces) is more than 12 in each ovary. Diagnosis of polycystic ovaries is made by performing a transvaginal ultrasound scan. In other words, a woman with polycystic ovaries have more than normal ovarian reserve. Most ladies with polycystic ovaries have not polycystic ovarian syndrome. Women with polycystic ovaries have polycystic ovarian syndrome if they have an increase in body hairs, acne or irregular periods or no periods at all. If a woman has polycystic ovarian syndrome and irregular or no periods at all the treatment would be to induce ovulation, this can be achieved by medications. If ovulation induction was not successful IVF should be considered.
