Polycystic Ovaries and LH levels

[Srfoshee]

I have recently been told that I have polycystic ovaries, but not PCOS because I do not have any other symptoms. I have always had regular 30 day cycles with OPK's and BBT confirming ovulation on day 16.  However, this cycle I have had strong positive OPK's since day 10, and still have a positive OPK today on day 14. My BBT shows I have not ovulated. Therefore, my LH levels have been elevated for 4 days now.  Is this because of the Polycystic Ovaries, and more importantly, does this mean I will not ovulate this cycle?

[TMJN]

I can't whether or not you will ovulate this cycle, but I can tell you that I have PCOS and I had strong OPKs and no rise in BBT.  However, I was not having regular periods.  It is probably a sign that the other symptoms are showing up.  I even had a postive HPT that turned out to be false.  I think you should see your doctor and have some tests.

[Forum-M.D.-SP]

It is hard to answer your question. Sometimes the OPKs can give strange answers, and some months your hormone secretion can be a bit unusual. Generally, women with PCOS have at least two of the following three findings : 1) irregular periods, 2) ovaries that look like PCO ovaries on ultrasound, 3) excess hair growth or elevated levels of the hormone testosterone. Since you are telling me your periods are regular, then I assume you have PCO ovaries on ultrasound and excess hair growth or elevated testosterone? If true, you may have PCO, If not, I am not so sure. Regardless, what is most important if you are trying to get pregnant is that you have regular periods and usually seem to ovulate regularly.

As for this unusual month, have you used clomid? Clomid causes an elevation in LH, which is the hormone measured by to OPK, while you are taking the clomid and sometimes for a couple of days thereafter. Thus, if you have used clomid it is probably wise to wait until day 12 to start the OPKs.

LH levels are sometimes a bit increased with PCOS, but not enough to turn the OPK test positive.

What you can do this month is have intercourse every couple of days from day 14-20, see what happens, and start over next month if you do not conceive. if your OPK kit starts to give unusual readings again, change kits and also you can call your MD to have a blood test for LH and progesterone - this will tell you whether or not you are really about to ovulate.