Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, was once believed to affect mostly adult women. Today, doctors across India are seeing a worrying shift. PCOS is now being diagnosed in teenage girls, with some cases appearing as early as 13 years of age. Health experts say this trend needs urgent attention because early PCOS can affect not just physical health, but also emotional well-being and future fertility.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects how the ovaries work. It can lead to irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair growth, weight gain, and difficulty in maintaining a healthy metabolism. If left untreated, PCOS can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and fertility problems later in life.
Studies from across India show that PCOS is becoming common among adolescents. Research suggests that around 17 to 18 per cent of Indian teenage girls may show signs of PCOS. Some regional studies report that nearly one in ten girls between the ages of 15 and 18 have hormonal imbalances linked to this condition. Doctors warn that these numbers could rise further as childhood and teenage obesity continue to increase.
One of the biggest reasons behind the early onset of PCOS is rising obesity among children and teens. Excess body weight worsens hormonal imbalance and leads to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance causes the body to produce more insulin, which in turn affects hormone levels and triggers PCOS symptoms.
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Changing food habits are also playing a major role. Traditional Indian diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes are slowly being replaced by processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food. These foods increase weight gain and disturb hormone balance.
A sedentary lifestyle is another key factor. Many teenagers spend long hours on mobile phones, laptops, and televisions. Physical activity has reduced sharply, while sleep patterns have become irregular. Lack of exercise and poor sleep both increase the risk of hormonal disorders.
Genetics also matter. Girls with a family history of PCOS or diabetes are more likely to develop the condition. Early puberty and early onset of periods can further increase vulnerability to hormonal imbalance during adolescence.
Doctors stress that PCOS is not caused by a single factor. It usually develops due to a combination of lifestyle habits, genetics, and hormonal changes during puberty.
One of the biggest challenges with PCOS in teenagers is delayed diagnosis. Many symptoms of PCOS, such as acne, mood swings, weight gain, or irregular periods, are often considered normal during adolescence. As a result, warning signs are ignored for years.
Doctors say irregular periods that continue for more than two years after the first menstrual cycle should not be overlooked. Severe acne, excessive facial or body hair, rapid weight gain, and hair thinning are also signs that need medical attention.
Early diagnosis is extremely important. When PCOS is detected early, simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Regular exercise, even 30 to 45 minutes a day, helps improve insulin sensitivity and hormone balance. A modest weight loss of just 5 to 10 per cent can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms.
A balanced diet is equally important. Eating home-cooked meals, reducing sugar intake, avoiding junk food, and including fibre-rich foods can support hormonal health. Good sleep and stress management also play a key role in controlling PCOS.
PCOS affects more than just physical health. Many teenage girls experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and social withdrawal due to changes in their appearance or fear of irregular periods. These emotional struggles are often misunderstood and dismissed as normal teenage behaviour.
Experts say sensitive counselling and open conversations are crucial. Parents should encourage their daughters to talk freely about menstrual health without shame or fear. Schools can help by including education on nutrition, exercise, and menstrual health in their programmes.
Healthcare providers also have a responsibility to use age-appropriate guidelines while diagnosing PCOS in teenagers. Not every irregular period means PCOS, but every irregular cycle deserves attention and follow-up.
Public health campaigns can play a major role in spreading awareness about PCOS among adolescents. Early education can prevent years of silent suffering and help girls grow into healthy, confident adults.
PCOS may be rising among teenage girls in India, but early awareness, timely medical care, and healthy lifestyle habits can change the outcome. Addressing the issue early is the key to protecting both present well-being and future health.
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