Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Types and patterns of PCOS, the Rotterdam criteria, and related conditions to rule out.
PCOS is not divided into official types, but doctors describe patterns to guide care. The Rotterdam criteria diagnose PCOS when two of three features are present.
The three features
Phenotypes (patterns)
Practical groupings often used
Related conditions to rule out
Thyroid disease, high prolactin, non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia and rarely androgen-secreting tumours can look like PCOS.
Ayurvedic view
Ayurveda groups conditions of irregular periods by dosha and does not match these types exactly. This is an interpretive framework.
See a doctor if you suspect PCOS. A doctor will check other causes first.
When to get help
See a gynaecologist or endocrinologist if your periods are very irregular or absent, you have rapid hair growth or hair loss, you have been trying to conceive for 6 to 12 months, or you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as thirst and frequent urination.
Remember
The pattern shapes the plan. Not every woman with PCOS has cysts, and not every cyst means PCOS.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem
Explore more articles about this topic
Exercise and yoga for PCOS: how much to do, helpful practices and safety tips.
Causes of PCOS: insulin resistance, high androgens, genes and inflammation.
How PCOS is diagnosed with symptoms, hormone and sugar tests and ultrasound.
Ayurvedic view of PCOS, traditional diet, therapies and herbs, and what evidence supports.
How PCOS changes through life and the long-term health risks to watch.
How PCOS is managed with lifestyle, medicines and fertility care. Manageable, not curable.
