Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age, and it is a leading cause of infertility. Its symptoms can be distressing and confusing, but understanding your risk is the first step toward managing your health. This risk checker is an educational tool designed to help you identify the key signs of PCOS based on established medical criteria.
Please remember, this is not a diagnostic tool. A formal diagnosis of PCOS can only be made by a healthcare professional after a complete evaluation.
What is PCOS and How Does it Affect Fertility?
PCOS is a complex condition that disrupts the balance of reproductive hormones. This hormonal imbalance can interfere with the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation), leading to infertility. The diagnosis is typically based on the Rotterdam criteria, where a woman must have at least two of the following three features:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: This is the most common sign. It may include cycles that are longer than 35 days, having fewer than eight periods a year, or a complete absence of periods.
- Hyperandrogenism (High Androgen Levels): Androgens are often called “male hormones,” though all women produce them. When levels are high, it can cause physical signs like excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), severe acne, and male-pattern hair loss.
- Polycystic Ovaries on Ultrasound: An ultrasound may reveal enlarged ovaries containing numerous small follicles. Despite the name, these are not true cysts but rather undeveloped eggs.
How Does the PCOS Risk Checker Work?
This tool functions as a guided questionnaire. It will ask you about your experiences with the key symptoms and risk factors associated with PCOS to help you build a clearer picture of your health to discuss with a doctor.
- Menstrual History: You'll be asked about the regularity and length of your cycles.
- Physical Symptoms: The questions will cover common signs of high androgens, such as acne and unwanted hair growth.
- Other Health Factors: It will also touch on related factors like difficulty managing weight, family history of PCOS or Type 2 Diabetes, and certain skin changes.
Understanding Your Risk and When to See a Doctor
If your results indicate a moderate or high risk for PCOS, it is a strong signal to book an appointment with a healthcare provider, such as a gynecologist or a reproductive endocrinologist. A doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests to check hormone levels and an ultrasound. It is important to remember that PCOS is highly manageable. While there is no cure, lifestyle changes and medical treatments can successfully manage symptoms and help you achieve your fertility goals.
PCOS and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
For women with PCOS, achieving a healthy pregnancy is absolutely possible with proper care. However, the condition does carry increased risks during pregnancy, such as a higher chance of developing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and requiring a cesarean delivery. Managing PCOS before and during pregnancy through close work with your medical team is the best way to ensure the healthiest possible outcome for you and your baby.
Important Medical Notes
This risk checker is an educational guide and does not provide a medical diagnosis. The diagnosis of PCOS is complex and requires a clinical evaluation by a healthcare professional. Do not use your results to self-diagnose or self-treat. If you are struggling to conceive or are concerned about any symptoms, please consult a doctor for personalized care.