PCOS Self Assessment

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder in which a hormonal imbalance causes tiny sacs of fluid (cysts) to develop along the outer edges of the ovaries. In addition to the cysts, PCOS can cause an array of other health problems, from reduced fertility to an increased risk of conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and liver problems.

Experts have not yet determined the exact cause of PCOS. What they do know, however, is that early diagnosis enables more effective treatment. Consequently, knowing that the condition exists and whether your symptoms indicate that you might have it is helpful.

This article provides information you can use to do a PCOS self-assessment.

How To Determine If You Have PCOS: 10 Crucial Questions

Every person experiences PCOS differently. However, if you answer “Yes” to some or all of the questions below, you may have the condition and should contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and whether you should get a medical diagnosis.

If you suspect you may have PCOS, consider your answers to the following self-assessment questions:

1. Do you have irregular periods?
2. Are your periods longer than those of others you know?
3. Have you experienced weight gain, especially in your belly?
4. Is your belly extended or protruding and firm to the touch?
5. Have you experienced oily skin or an unusual amount of acne?
6. Have you noticed increased hair growth on your face or body (called hirsutism)?
7. Is the hair on your head thinning?
8. Do you have what is referred to as tubular breasts that are narrow at the base and drooping with enlarged areolas?
9. Are you trying to get pregnant but struggling to conceive?
10. Are you experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression?

If any of the characteristics above apply to you, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor soon. While there’s no cure for PCOS, your doctor can prescribe treatments and recommend lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms.

Addressing the condition promptly when you realize you have it is also essential because it can affect other areas of your health. If your doctor diagnoses you with PCOS, they’ll likely also monitor you for other health problems like obstructive sleep apnea, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver problems, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, endometrial cancer, and others.

Diagnosing PCOS

If your self-assessment suggests you may have PCOS, your doctor will perform or order various procedures (there’s no single test for PCOS.), which can include:

• A pelvic exam to check for growths, masses, or other changes to your reproductive organs
• Blood tests to measure hormone levels
• An ultrasound to check characteristics like the thickness of your uterine lining and the appearance of your ovaries
• Screening for obstructive sleep apnea
• Screening for anxiety and depression

Take Our PCOS Self-Assessment and Discuss It With Your Doctor

PCOS can affect your life in many ways, from harming your self-confidence to affecting your ability to conceive and increasing your risk of several potentially life-threatening diseases. The good news is that your doctor can diagnose the condition and prescribe treatments and lifestyle changes to help you manage it.

If you took the self-assessment above and answered “Yes” to any of the questions, reach out to a Baptist Health doctor today.

Our online provider directory is an excellent resource for finding a physician.

Next Steps and Useful Resources:

Learn More About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Explore Women's Care at Baptist Health
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Acne
Symptoms & Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Richmond