Polycystic ovary syndrome, widely known as PCOS, is an endocrine system disorder that affects women in their reproductive years. Small fluid-filled sacs develop on the ovaries. It is also known as or Stein-Leventhal syndrome. Symptoms include changes to the menstrual cycle and excess hair growth.

Where to check if you have PCOS?

There's no single test for it, but a physical exam, ultrasound, and blood tests can help diagnose PCOS. You need to meet 2 of these 3 "official" criteria to be diagnosed: Irregular, heavy, or missed periods due to missed ovulation—the release of an egg from your ovaries. This also keeps you from becoming pregnant.

Where is PCOS pain located?

Pelvic pain is a less common symptom of PCOS. But PCOS can produce ovarian cysts—which themselves can cause pain in the pelvic area. When ovarian cysts cause pelvic pain, it can feel like a dull ache or a sharp jolt in your lower belly. You may always feel the pain, or it may come and go.