With our busy lifestyles, long work hours, and very less time for exercise, lifestyle-related health problems are becoming more common than ever. Health problems like diabetes, obesity, and heart problems are on the rise across the country. But there’s another condition that is quietly affecting a growing number of young women, PCOS.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal disorder that’s becoming increasingly common in India. It usually starts in the late teens or early twenties and often goes unnoticed because early signs like irregular periods, mild weight gain, acne, or extra hair growth are often mistaken for normal changes during adolescence. Many young women live with these symptoms for years without realising it, which is why awareness and early detection are so important.
It usually starts in the late teens or early twenties and can go unnoticed for years because early signs like irregular periods, slight weight gain, acne, or extra hair growth are often mistaken for normal changes during adolescence. Noticing these signs early can make a big difference for long-term health. So how to know if it’s just adolescence or PCOS? The Financial Express got in touch with a gynaecologist who gave insights on the same.
“Many young women assume these symptoms are just part of growing up, but they could be early indicators of PCOS,” says Dr. Nandita Gusain Barthwal, Dr. Nandita Gusain Barthwal, MBBS, M.D, gynaecology, laparoscopy and obstetrics, Kailash Hospital, Noida.
How common is PCOS?
Globally, PCOS affects an estimated 6 to 13 percent of women of reproductive age, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), with up to 70 per cent remaining undiagnosed. According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, the prevalence of PCOS among women aged 18–25 years in Lucknow was found to be 3.7 per cent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reveals that PCOS is a leading cause of infertility in women worldwide, underlining the importance of early detection.
Tests that can help detect PCOS
For young women, doctors can check for PCOS by looking at symptoms and doing hormone tests to see how the ovaries are working and if hormone levels are normal.
“Serum testosterone is commonly measured because higher levels can explain symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne, and thinning hair on the scalp,” explains Dr. Barthwal. “We also check Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), because an imbalance in their ratio can point to irregular ovulation cycles.”
Another useful test is the Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which provides an idea of ovarian reserve. Women with PCOS often have higher levels of AMH, a hormone that shows there are more immature follicles in the ovaries. Doctors may also check thyroid and prolactin levels to rule out other hormone problems that can look like PCOS.
Insulin resistance and other risks
Insulin resistance is another important issue. Many young women with PCOS have higher insulin levels, which can cause weight gain and raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. “Simple tests like fasting blood sugar, fasting insulin, or an oral glucose tolerance test can detect these risks early,” Dr. Barthwal explains. “Timely detection allows women to take preventive action and reduce long-term complications.”
Diagnosis for PCOS
No single test can confirm PCOS. Diagnosis is made based on a combination of clinical assessment, blood tests, and imaging like ultrasound. Overdiagnosis can happen, especially in teenagers whose menstrual cycles are still settling, so doctors always consider age and overall health before making a diagnosis.
How to manage PCOS?
Diagnosing PCOS early gives women a chance to take control of their health. Simple lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, staying active, and managing stress can help. Sometimes, doctors may also prescribe medicines to regulate periods, improve insulin levels, or manage other symptoms.
“PCOS isn’t just about fertility; it affects overall well-being,” Dr. Barthwal explains. “Being proactive with tests, regular checkups, and lifestyle measures can help control symptoms and prevent long-term issues like metabolic disorders, heart problems, or mood disturbances. Young women can stay healthy and maintain a good quality of life while navigating this condition,” she further said.