How Is PCOS diagnosed?

If your period is irregular, your skin is breaking out, or your energy feels off, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) could be the reason. You’re not alone. PCOS is the leading cause of infertility in women in the U.S., and millions of people go undiagnosed, even though it is estimated to affect around one out of ten women.

Here’s how PCOS is diagnosed and how at-home hormone testing can help you get answers faster.

What Are the Diagnostic Criteria for PCOS?

There is no single test for PCOS. Most healthcare providers use the Rotterdam criteria, which means a diagnosis usually requires two out of these three:

• Irregular or absent periods, which may signal ovulation problems
• Elevated androgens, such as high testosterone levels, visible through symptoms like acne or facial hair
• Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound, which appear as many small follicles (not actual cysts)

Doctors may also check for and rule out other hormonal conditions, such as thyroid dysfunction or high prolactin levels.

Can You Test for PCOS Hormones at Home?

Yes, and it is more accessible than ever. At-home hormone testing is a reliable way to start understanding your symptoms and exploring a PCOS diagnosis, especially if you’re not yet working with a specialist.

Strawberry’s Comprehensive Hormone Panel measures key hormones linked to PCOS:

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Often elevated in PCOS and reflects ovarian follicle count
• Testosterone and SHBG: Help assess androgen excess and hormone balance
• LH and FSH: An elevated LH to FSH ratio is common in people with PCOS
• Estrogen and Progesterone: Provide insight into your ovulation pattern and cycle health

These biomarkers can all be measured using our painless at-home blood test.

Why Diagnosing PCOS Matters, Even If You’re Not Trying to Conceive

PCOS impacts much more than fertility. It can affect your:

• Skin and hair
• Metabolism and weight
• Mood, energy, and focus
• Cycle regularity and hormone balance
• Long-term health risks such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes

Identifying PCOS early can help you better manage symptoms and protect your future health.

The Bottom Line

If your symptoms feel unexplained or your cycle is unpredictable, testing your hormones is a smart first step. That's what we are here for:

• No appointments
• Personalised actionable plans based on your results
• Real clarity about your reproductive and overall health

Because while PCOS is common, going through life undiagnosed does not have to be. 💝