The criteria doctors use for PCOS
Doctors diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome with the Rotterdam criteria, which the 2023 international guideline reaffirmed: any two of the three features below must be present, once other explanations (for example thyroid disease or raised prolactin) have been excluded.
| Feature |
In practice |
| Irregular or absent ovulation |
More than 35 days between periods, under 8 periods a year, or none |
| High androgens |
Extra facial or body hair, acne, thinning scalp hair, or raised testosterone on a blood test |
| Polycystic ovaries |
Lots of follicles visible on ultrasound (or a high AMH level in adults) |
Based on your answers, the checker tallies how many of the three features may apply, and flags signs of insulin resistance that often go with PCOS, such as darker skin patches and weight gain around the waist. It is not a diagnosis — a gynaecologist will need to examine you, order blood tests and, where appropriate, an ultrasound. In teenagers less than 8 years past their first period, a scan is not used to make the diagnosis.
Already have a diagnosis? Our PCOS meal plan plus regular exercise is the usual first step in treatment.
Common questions
Is PCOS possible if my periods come on time?
It is, when you have both raised androgens and polycystic ovaries — less usual, but it does happen.
An ultrasound showed cysts — does that confirm PCOS?
Not by itself. The so-called cysts are small follicles, and plenty of women without PCOS have ovaries that look polycystic. Two of the three criteria are needed.
What blood work is usually done?
Typically testosterone (or the free androgen index), plus tests to exclude other conditions — TSH for thyroid, prolactin, sometimes 17-OH progesterone — along with sugar and cholesterol checks.
Can this quiz tell me for sure if I have PCOS?
No. It only shows which features your answers suggest; a doctor’s assessment is needed for a diagnosis.
Sources: 2023 international PCOS guideline (JCEM) · NHS: Polycystic ovary syndrome
Checked against the sources listed. This is general guidance only and not a substitute for medical advice — please speak to your doctor about your own situation.
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