PCOS Quiz

Thank you for taking our Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) quiz! Below is a little bit more information about PCOS as well as links to mental health professionals who can help you.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries, often starting in adolescence or early adulthood. It can influence menstrual cycles, fertility, metabolism, and appearance. People with PCOS may experience:

• Irregular Periods – cycles that are infrequent, prolonged, or absent
• Excess Androgen Symptoms – such as acne, unwanted hair growth, or thinning hair
• Polycystic Ovaries – ovaries that appear enlarged or contain multiple small follicles on an ultrasound
• PCOS can impact daily life, including physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships.

How Common Is It?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• About 1 in 10 people with ovaries are estimated to have PCOS.

What Causes PCOS?

PCOS often results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including:

• Family history of PCOS or diabetes
• Insulin resistance or high insulin levels
• Inflammation in the body
• Hormonal imbalances

Types of PCOS

PCOS can present differently depending on which symptoms are most prominent:

1. Insulin-Resistant PCOS

A person may experience:

• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• High blood sugar or insulin levels
• Fatigue

2. Hyperandrogenic PCOS

A person may experience:

• Excess facial or body hair
• Acne
• Thinning scalp hair

3. Ovulatory PCOS

A person may experience:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Mild symptoms of androgen excess

Symptoms may overlap, and a person’s presentation can change over time.

What Do PCOS Symptoms Look Like?

People with PCOS may experience:

• Irregular or skipped menstrual cycles
• Unexplained weight changes or difficulty managing weight
• Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back
• Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
• Acne or oily skin
• Fatigue or low energy
• Mood changes, including anxiety or depression
• Difficulty conceiving

How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

PCOS is diagnosed by a qualified healthcare provider based on medical history, symptoms, and tests, including:

• Hormone blood tests (for androgen, insulin, and reproductive hormones)
• Pelvic ultrasound (to check ovarian size and follicles)
• Exclusion of other conditions that may mimic PCOS

To be diagnosed, a person typically meets 2 out of 3 criteria:

1. Irregular or absent ovulation
2. Signs of elevated androgen levels
3. Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound

How PCOS Affects Adults

PCOS can influence physical health, emotional well-being, and fertility. Adults may notice:

• Increased risk for insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
• Difficulty maintaining a healthy weight
• Mood changes, including anxiety or depression
• Irregular menstrual cycles or fertility challenges

Treatment for PCOS

While PCOS has no single cure, symptoms can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes, medication, and support.

Lifestyle Changes

• Balanced diet and regular exercise
• Weight management to improve insulin sensitivity
• Stress management and adequate sleep

Medications

• Hormonal birth control to regulate periods
• Medications to improve insulin sensitivity (e.g., metformin)
• Fertility treatments if trying to conceive

Supportive Therapies

• Counseling or therapy for mood changes or body image concerns
• Education on symptom management and self-care strategies

A Holistic Approach

Managing PCOS often requires a combination of medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support. With proper care, people with PCOS can reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being.

You’re Not Alone — Help Is Available

If you think you may have PCOS, speak with a licensed healthcare provider. An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.

For additional support, ask your provider about PCOS-friendly lifestyle plans, symptom tracking tools, and educational resources.

Resources:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
• Mayo Clinic. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).