PCOS, periods and fertility: Health risks and hidden disorders every woman in 20s must know

Symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, or thinning hair. Some women may also notice weight fluctuations or darkened skin patches (Image: Canva)

• PCOS affects 1 in 10 women, but 70 percent remain undiagnosed
• Irregular periods, acne, and excess hair are key PCOS symptoms
• Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes help manage PCOS risks

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition where ovaries develop tiny cysts, often triggering irregular cycles and high androgen levels. It can increase the risk of insulin problems, fertility struggles, and chronic health issues. Young women in their 20s should monitor symptoms early to safeguard long-term reproductive and metabolic health.

PCOS affects roughly one in ten women globally. Even then up to 70 per cent remain undiagnosed. “It is a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder that disrupts ovulation and can silently affect fertility,” Dr Shruti Salampuria-Sawant, MBBS, MD (Obs & Gyn), Consulting Clinician, Aksigen IVF, tells Moneycontrol.

The disorder, Dr Sawant informs, is often signalled through irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, or thinning hair. “Some women may also notice weight fluctuations or darkened skin patches on the neck or underarms. Importantly, even slim women can have ‘lean PCOS’,” says Dr Sawant. She warns, “Women shouldn’t assume normal weight rules out PCOS; the hormonal disruption is what matters most.”

Also read | Why is PCOS on the rise among Indian women? 5 causes you should know

PCOS also increases the risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and even cardiovascular complications. During pregnancy, women may face gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. Irregular menstrual cyclescan also raise the risk of endometrial issues over time. “It’s a condition that impacts overall health, not just fertility,” the expert says.

PCOS affects fertility

The main culprit is anovulation. In PCOS, ovarian follicles often fail to mature and release eggs, while excess androgens and insulin resistance further compromise ovulation and egg quality. Hormonal imbalances may also affect the uterine lining, making implantation of a fertilised egg more difficult.

How to spot the symptoms early

Diagnosis involves ultrasound scans, blood tests for androgen levels, and clinical assessment of symptoms like acne or excessive hair growth. Anti-Mullerian Hormone testing can provide insights into ovarian function. “Early detection in your 20s allows proactive management before fertility becomes a concern,” emphasises Dr Sawant.

Also read | Gynaecologist suggests simple tips to manage PCOS, from diet guide to best exercises, more

7 things to know about PCOS

Dr Sawant shares 7 things to know about PCOS and suggests tips on  how to manage the condition for long-term health.

• Irregular periods may be more than a minor inconvenience; they’re often a key warning sign.
• Having excessive facial or body hair, acne, or experiencing hair thinning, can be a sign of high androgen levels.
• PCOS is not weight-specific. It can be seen in women of all shapes and body types, even lean women.
• Insulin resistance and metabolic complications are often accompanied by reproductive problems.
• Long term risks like diabetes and endometrial problems can be prevented through early diagnosis
• Making lifestyle adjustments, including diet, exercise, and weight management, helps improve treatment process.
• Assisted reproduction techniques like IVF or IUI help those struggling to conceive.

How to manage PCOS

Lifestyle modifications are crucial, she says. regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly improve symptoms. Even a 5 per cent weight reduction can help metabolism and mental well-being. For couples facing infertility, treatments such as IUI or IVF are effective options.

FAQs on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

1. What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition where ovaries develop small cysts, leading to irregular cycles and high androgen levels. It can cause insulin resistance, fertility challenges, and increase the risk of chronic health issues.

2. What are the common symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS symptoms include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, thinning hair, weight fluctuations, and darkened skin patches on the neck or underarms. Slim women can also have 'lean PCOS.'

3. How does PCOS affect fertility?

PCOS affects fertility primarily due to anovulation, where ovarian follicles fail to mature and release eggs. Hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance further compromise ovulation and egg quality, affecting the uterine lining and implantation.

4. How is PCOS diagnosed?

PCOS diagnosis involves ultrasound scans, blood tests for androgen levels, and assessing symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth. Anti-Mullerian Hormone testing provides insights into ovarian function.

5. How can PCOS be managed?

Managing PCOS involves lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. Even a 5% weight reduction can improve symptoms. Treatments like IUI or IVF help couples facing infertility.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.