What type of PCOS do you have?
Answer 22 questions about your symptoms and history. See which of four patterns may be driving them, and what to ask your doctor.
What are the four types of PCOS?
The four types (patterns) of PCOS come from functional medicine, specifically the framework described by naturopathic doctor Lara Briden. This classification is not part of the official medical diagnostic criteria (Rotterdam, 2003) — it is an educational lens that may help you and your healthcare provider explore what might be driving your symptoms.
Insulin-resistant PCOS
Insulin-resistant PCOS is the most common pattern, affecting an estimated 70% of women with PCOS. In this pattern, your cells become less responsive to insulin, causing the pancreas to produce more. Excess insulin may stimulate the ovaries to produce more testosterone, which can disrupt ovulation and lead to symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, and hair thinning. Key markers include fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and triglycerides. Research suggests that dietary and lifestyle changes focused on blood sugar regulation may help.
Post-pill PCOS
Post-pill PCOS describes a temporary set of PCOS-like symptoms that may develop after stopping hormonal birth control — particularly pills containing anti-androgenic progestins. While on the pill, androgen production is suppressed; stopping it may cause a rebound that leads to acne, hair loss, and irregular periods. Most women see improvement within 6–12 months. If symptoms persist beyond 12 months, another underlying pattern may be contributing.
Inflammatory PCOS
Inflammatory PCOS is thought to be driven by chronic low-grade inflammation rather than insulin resistance. Inflammation from gut dysbiosis, food sensitivities, environmental toxins, or autoimmune conditions may stimulate excess androgen production. This pattern is often missed because standard metabolic tests may come back normal. Key markers include CRP, thyroid antibodies, and gut health panels.
Adrenal PCOS
Adrenal PCOS accounts for approximately 10% of PCOS cases. In this pattern, excess androgens come primarily from the adrenal glands rather than the ovaries. The telltale marker is elevated DHEA-S with normal testosterone. Chronic stress may overstimulate the HPA axis, causing the adrenal glands to produce excess androgens. This pattern is typically identified by exclusion of the other three.
How is PCOS/PMOS actually diagnosed?
PCOS (recently renamed PMOS — Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, Lancet Commission, May 2026) is diagnosed by healthcare professionals using the Rotterdam criteria (2003), updated in the 2023 international evidence-based guideline. A diagnosis requires at least two of three criteria:
- Irregular or absent ovulation — irregular periods, cycles longer than 35 days, or absent periods.
- Clinical or biochemical signs of excess androgens — acne, hirsutism, hair thinning, or elevated androgen levels on blood tests.
- Polycystic ovarian morphology — multiple follicles visible on ultrasound (≥12 per ovary or ovarian volume >10 ml).
Other conditions that mimic PCOS must be ruled out, including thyroid disorders, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and Cushing's syndrome. Only a qualified healthcare provider can make a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Can you have more than one type of PCOS?
Yes. Many women show activity across multiple patterns. The quiz shows your percentage scores across all four drivers rather than assigning a single type. Your dominant pattern may also shift over time as your lifestyle, stress levels, or hormonal status changes.
Is this quiz a medical diagnosis?
No. This quiz is an educational self-assessment tool based on published clinical patterns. It cannot diagnose PCOS or any medical condition. Only a qualified healthcare provider can diagnose PCOS/PMOS through physical examination, blood tests, and ultrasound.
What should I do after taking this quiz?
Use your results as a conversation starter with your healthcare provider. Ask about the specific lab tests relevant to your dominant pattern. You can also download our free PCOS Quick Start Guide for evidence-based next steps tailored to your pattern.
How accurate is the PCOS type quiz?
The quiz is based on symptom patterns described in functional medicine literature. It provides an educational estimate, not a clinical measurement. Your actual hormonal profile may differ from what symptoms suggest. Lab tests ordered by your doctor are the gold standard.
What is the difference between PCOS and PMOS?
PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) is the new official name for PCOS, adopted in May 2026 following the Lancet Commission recommendation. The condition is the same; the name was updated to better reflect its metabolic and endocrine nature.