How to Use the PCOS Self-Check
If your periods are irregular and you're also dealing with acne or excess hair growth, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is worth considering. PCOS is a common hormonal condition in women of reproductive age. The most widely used international standard, the Rotterdam criteria, diagnoses PCOS when at least 2 of 3 features are present: ovulatory dysfunction (irregular periods), signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. This checker takes your cycle length and related symptoms and tells you how many of those criteria you meet.
A cycle longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days can count toward the ovulatory dysfunction criterion. Symptoms like excess hair growth, adult acne, and male-pattern hair thinning are classic signs of relatively elevated androgens (male hormones). If a doctor has told you an ultrasound showed polycystic ovaries, that covers the third criterion. Meeting 2 or more of these three is worth taking seriously enough to pursue a proper evaluation.
PCOS isn't just about periods — it can also be linked to insulin resistance, infertility, and a higher long-term risk of endometrial cancer, which is why early diagnosis and management matter. This checker is only a self-reflection tool, so if you have warning signs, it's worth getting bloodwork and a pelvic ultrasound from an OB-GYN for a proper diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most widely used international standard, the Rotterdam criteria, diagnoses PCOS when 2 of 3 features are present: ovulatory dysfunction (irregular periods), clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism (excess hair growth, acne, male-pattern hair thinning), and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. This checker references those criteria for self-reflection only — it is not a diagnosis.
It's important to get a proper evaluation from an OB-GYN, including bloodwork (hormone levels) and an ultrasound. Left unaddressed, PCOS can be linked to infertility, higher endometrial cancer risk, and insulin resistance, so early diagnosis and, if needed, treatment and lifestyle management matter.