Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly called PCOS, is a hormonal condition that affects many teenage girls and young women. It happens when the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones, called androgens. These hormones can cause changes in the menstrual cycle, skin, hair, and weight.
PCOS is often hard to notice in teens because some symptoms may seem like normal changes during puberty. For example, irregular periods, acne, and weight changes are common during adolescence. However, when these symptoms appear together or persist for months, they could indicate PCOS. Early detection is important because timely lifestyle changes and medical care can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications later in life, such as fertility problems or insulin resistance.
Medical experts stress that parents and teenagers should be aware of the early signs of PCOS. Noticing symptoms early and consulting a doctor can help confirm the diagnosis and start treatment sooner.
1. Irregular periods
One of the first signs of PCOS is irregular or missed periods. While some variation is normal in the first two years after a girl starts menstruating, repeated gaps of more than 35–40 days, extremely heavy bleeding, or months without a period may signal a hormonal problem. Skipping periods regularly or having unpredictable cycles is a strong indicator that something is not normal.
2. Excess hair growth and stubborn acne
High levels of male hormones in PCOS can lead to hirsutism, which is unwanted hair growth on the face, chest, or belly. Girls may also experience acne that is difficult to treat with standard skincare routines. These changes happen because the body produces too many androgens, which disrupt normal skin and hair patterns.
3. Sudden or unexplained weight gain
Many girls with PCOS gain weight quickly, especially around the belly area. This is not always linked to eating habits. Instead, insulin resistance—when the body struggles to use insulin effectively—can make it harder to control weight. Even with a healthy diet and exercise, maintaining or losing weight may be challenging for girls with PCOS.
4. Hair thinning or scalp changes
While some teens notice extra hair growth, others may see hair thinning or bald patches on the scalp. This is also caused by hormonal imbalance and is often accompanied by acne and unwanted hair growth. Changes in hair texture, such as brittle hair or hair that falls out easily, may also occur.
If a teenager has two or more of these symptoms consistently for several months, it is important to consult a doctor. A gynaecologist or an endocrinologist can check whether it is PCOS or another hormonal condition. Early medical consultation is important because untreated PCOS can lead to long-term issues like diabetes, high cholesterol, or fertility problems.
Doctors may perform blood tests to measure hormone levels and insulin function. They may also recommend an ultrasound of the ovaries to check for cysts. Based on the findings, a treatment plan can be created. Treatment usually includes lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to regulate periods, control acne, or manage insulin resistance.
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Early diagnosis also helps teens manage their symptoms more effectively. Controlling PCOS early can improve fertility, prevent excess weight gain, reduce hair and skin problems, and boost self-confidence. Teens can continue their daily activities, including school and sports, without being overly affected by PCOS symptoms.
Parents and caregivers should support teens with PCOS by helping them adopt a healthy lifestyle, encouraging regular exercise, and providing emotional support. Awareness about PCOS in schools and communities can also help teens seek timely medical attention.
In summary, PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in teenage girls. Key warning signs include irregular periods, excess hair growth, persistent acne, sudden weight gain, and hair thinning. These symptoms may overlap with normal teenage changes, but persistent or multiple symptoms should never be ignored. Early medical consultation and proper care can help manage PCOS, improve quality of life, and prevent long-term health issues.
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