World PCOS Day 2024: Effective solution tips to manage PCOS in teenage girls

PCOS diagnosis have surged among younger individuals, yet awareness remains low despite its prevalence as the most common female endocrine disorder and a leading cause of infertility. Hence, ahead of World PCOS Day 2024 this September 1, it is important to understand and know how to manage PCOS in teenage girls. Affecting 6-26% of women globally and 3.7-22.5% in India, PCOS is characterised by chronic anovulation, irregular periods, hirsutism and weight gain.
Although the terms PCOS and PCOD are more recognised today, many still fail to grasp the condition’s severity or recognise its symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Understanding and managing one’s body with a health-conscious lifestyle is crucial.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sowparnika SN, Consultant – Reproductive Medicine at Milann Fertility Center in Bengaluru, explained, “An overabundance of androgens—a class of hormones linked to masculine features and reproductive processes, though they are also present in smaller amounts in females—are produced by the ovaries in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder. Unequal menstrual cycles, abnormal ovulation, and missed periods can all be caused by this hormonal imbalance.”
She elaborated, “Even though anovulation, or the absence of ovulation, can cause tiny follicular cysts to form on the ovaries, anovulation alone does not require the appearance of these cysts to diagnose PCOS. PCOS is a major cause of infertility in women and AFAB individuals, raising the risk of other health issues. Symptoms usually start around puberty but may not show until the late teens or early 20s and can change over time.”
Dr Sowparnika SN shared, “PCOS presents with a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), persistent acne, and difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, with 40% to 80% of affected individuals experiencing obesity. Skin darkening, particularly in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin, is also common, along with the appearance of ovarian cysts visible on ultrasound.”
She added, “Other signs include skin tags, thinning hair or balding, and infertility due to irregular ovulation. It’s possible to have PCOS without noticeable symptoms, and some may only discover the condition when facing challenges with conception or unexplained weight gain. Mild cases may have symptoms that are subtle and easily overlooked.”
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but genetics, obesity, and other factors likely play a role. High androgen levels and insulin resistance, common in PCOS, disrupt ovulation and may lead to elevated blood glucose and diabetes. Low-grade inflammation is also common in PCOS. While it can increase the risk of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preterm birth, most individuals with PCOS can still achieve successful pregnancies.
Many individuals remain unaware of PCOS in its early stages, leading to untreated symptoms. It’s crucial to consult a gynecologist if symptoms appear for proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr Sowparnika SN suggested the following tips for PCOS management and treatment –
PCOS can significantly impact self-esteem due to the physical changes and health issues it causes. Dr Sowparnika SN said, “Symptoms can vary from person to person, but the underlying problem remains consistent. It’s important to take preventive measures to reduce the severity of symptoms and support emotional health. Starting with small, manageable changes can lead to effective results. After diagnosis, consult a gynecologist for medications that can regulate the menstrual cycle and control excess hair growth or acne by managing androgen levels.”
She concluded, “If these hormonal treatments are ineffective, a dermatologist may offer further solutions. Addressing anxiety or depression is also crucial. Speaking with a therapist and creating a supportive environment can help build confidence and improve mental well-being. Lastly, many women, despite recognizing the signs of PCOS, may self-medicate or delay seeking treatment, which can lead to future health risks. It’s essential to consult a gynecologist promptly upon noticing symptoms to ensure timely and effective treatment.”