PCOS Diagnosis with Ultrasound in HSR Layout, Bengaluru
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome affects up to 1 in 5 Indian women of reproductive age — but most cases go undiagnosed for years. A pelvic ultrasound scan is the most important imaging step in confirming the diagnosis.
At Nitara Scans, pelvic USG for PCOS is performed by Dr. Nayana N Sunku, an experienced female radiologist, in a private and unhurried setting where the findings are explained clearly after the scan.
Why patients choose Dr. Nayana at Nitara Scans
Nitara Scans is positioned for patients who want a female radiologist, a private setting and a scan visit where explanation matters as much as reporting. PCOS involves sensitive and personal symptoms — having a doctor who listens and explains makes a real difference.
Dr. Nayana N Sunku, DMRD · DNB Radiology · Fetal Medicine Fellow, leads every pelvic scan personally.
Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound with detailed assessment of follicle count, ovarian volume and endometrium.
Easily reachable from Koramangala, Bellandur, Sarjapur Road, BTM Layout and Electronic City.
What is PCOS and how common is it in India?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting women during their reproductive years. Despite the name, "polycystic" does not mean you have cysts — it refers to a large number of small, immature follicles that build up in the ovaries because ovulation does not complete normally.
A large multi-centre Indian study found a PCOS prevalence of 19.6% by Rotterdam criteria among women aged 18–40. Urban stress, sedentary lifestyles, dietary changes and genetic factors all contribute to India's high burden of PCOS.
Common PCOS symptoms
- Irregular or missed periods (fewer than 8 per year)
- Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- Acne and oily skin, especially on the jawline
- Hair thinning or scalp hair loss
- Weight gain around the abdomen
- Difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation
- Dark skin patches on the neck, armpits or groin
- Mood changes, anxiety or low mood
How PCOS is diagnosed
The internationally accepted Rotterdam Criteria require at least 2 of these 3 findings:
- Irregular or absent ovulation — fewer than 8 periods per year or cycles longer than 35 days
- Clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism — excess hair, acne or elevated testosterone / DHEAS on blood tests
- Polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) on ultrasound — this is where the scan becomes essential
A pelvic ultrasound is required to assess the third criterion and is the only way to directly visualise the ovaries.
The role of ultrasound in diagnosing PCOS
Pelvic ultrasound allows the radiologist to directly visualise the ovaries, count developing follicles, measure ovarian size, assess the ovarian stroma and evaluate the uterine lining — all in real time, without radiation, in about 20 minutes.
What does a PCOS scan look for?
Under the updated 2018 international evidence-based guidelines, polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) is confirmed when:
| Parameter | Diagnostic Threshold | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Follicle Number Per Ovary | ≥ 20 follicles (2–9 mm) in at least one ovary | Updated from the older threshold of 12 — modern probes now detect follicles more accurately |
| Ovarian Volume | > 10 mL in at least one ovary | Enlarged ovaries, even without the follicle count threshold, can indicate PCOS |
| Follicle Arrangement | "String of pearls" — follicles at the periphery | Classic PCOS appearance: follicles arranged around the ovarian edge with a dense, bright central stroma |
| Endometrial Thickness | Assessed alongside the ovaries | Chronic anovulation can cause endometrial thickening — important to monitor over time |
Transabdominal vs transvaginal USG
- Transabdominal (TA) USG — probe placed on the abdomen over a full bladder. Good overview, suitable for adolescents or those who prefer no internal scan. Image quality may be affected by higher BMI.
- Transvaginal (TVS) USG — internal probe used with an empty bladder. Superior resolution, more accurate follicle counting. Preferred method for sexually active women and the gold standard for PCOS evaluation.
Dr. Nayana will advise the most appropriate type during your booking based on your age, preference and clinical history.
What else does the scan check?
- Endometrial thickness and pattern — chronic anovulation can cause the uterine lining to thicken
- Ovarian cysts vs PCOM — distinguishing true cysts from the PCOS follicle pattern
- Fibroids or adenomyosis — conditions that can coexist or mimic PCOS symptoms
- Uterine structure — identifies any structural changes relevant to fertility
- Both ovaries and uterus — comprehensive pelvic assessment in a single scan
How ultrasound guides PCOS treatment
- Follicular monitoring — for women trying to conceive on fertility medications, serial scans track follicle growth, confirm ovulation timing and screen for ovarian hyperstimulation
- Endometrial monitoring — periodic checks to rule out endometrial hyperplasia in women with long-term irregular cycles
- Treatment response — repeat scans confirm whether lifestyle changes and medication are reducing ovarian volume and follicle counts
- Pregnancy monitoring — women with PCOS have a slightly higher risk of early pregnancy complications and benefit from early obstetric scan follow-up
Long-term health risks of untreated PCOS
PCOS is not only a reproductive issue. If unmanaged, it significantly increases the risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes — insulin resistance is present in up to 70% of PCOS cases
- Metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease
- Endometrial hyperplasia and, in rare untreated cases, endometrial cancer
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Depression and anxiety
Why choose Nitara Scans in HSR Layout for a PCOS scan
Patients looking for a PCOS scan in HSR Layout, Bengaluru want more than just a report — they want a scan where the findings are explained, questions are answered, and the experience feels respectful and unhurried. Dr. Nayana also offers a private post-scan consultation so patients can understand their findings without feeling rushed, which is especially valuable in pelvic and fertility imaging.
- Expert pelvic USG by Dr. Nayana N Sunku — DMRD, DNB Radiology, Fetal Medicine Fellow
- Female radiologist-led care, valued by many women for sensitive pelvic and fertility appointments
- Transabdominal and transvaginal scanning available based on clinical need
- Accessible from HSR Layout, Koramangala, Bellandur, BTM Layout and Sarjapur Road
Clinic: 24A Cross Rd, Garden Layout, Sector 2, HSR Layout, Bengaluru 560102. Booking available by WhatsApp, call or email.
Frequently asked questions
Can ultrasound alone diagnose PCOS?
No. Ultrasound provides one of the three Rotterdam diagnostic criteria. At least two of three must be present for a PCOS diagnosis — irregular periods, elevated androgens, and polycystic ovarian morphology on USG. Blood tests and clinical assessment are also required.
Is transvaginal scan painful or uncomfortable?
A TVS is generally well tolerated. The probe is small and is gently inserted by the radiologist. Most women report mild discomfort at most. Dr. Nayana explains the procedure beforehand and ensures you are comfortable throughout.
What does "string of pearls" mean on a PCOS scan?
This describes the classic ultrasound appearance — small follicles (2–9 mm) arranged in a ring around the periphery of the ovary, resembling a pearl necklace. It is a hallmark ultrasound sign of polycystic ovarian morphology and is seen with an enlarged, bright central stroma.
How often do I need a scan if I have PCOS?
Your gynaecologist will advise the frequency. A baseline scan is done at diagnosis. Annual scans help monitor endometrial thickness and ovarian changes. Women on fertility treatment may need serial scans during each treatment cycle.
Book your PCOS scan at Nitara Scans
For pelvic ultrasound for PCOS in HSR Layout, Bengaluru, contact Nitara Scans on WhatsApp, call directly or visit the main services page. Appointments are private, explanation-led and performed by Dr. Nayana personally.
Phone: +91 74111 74999 | Email: nitarascans2023@gmail.com