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

Causes of PCOS: Hormonal Imbalance: is one of the main reasons for the occurrence of PCOS. It stops eggs from developing properly and can lead to irregular or missed periods (Image: Canva)

While there’s a lot of talk around PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, many women find themselves confused when they are diagnosed with this hormonal disorder. Dr Rita Bakshi, Senior Gynaecologist & Co-Founder of RISAA IVF, shared the symptoms of PCOS, its causes and how to manage the condition, in an exclusive chat with Moneycontrol.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS has become common, especially among teenage girls and women of reproductive age. Shedding light on the reasons for its occurrence and its symptoms, Dr Bakshi said, “It happens when the ovaries make too many male hormones, which can cause irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and sometimes unwanted hair.”

Causes of PCOS

There are many factors that increase the risk, including:

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

• Hormonal Imbalance: Dr Bakshi called it one of the main reasons for the occurrence of PCOS, adding that PCOS happens when ovaries produce extra male hormones. “This can stop eggs from developing properly and can lead to irregular or missed periods. It can also cause acne and hair growth in unusual places,” she said.

• Insulin Resistance: There are times the body doesn’t use insulin properly, increasing its levels. “High insulin can tell the ovaries to produce more male hormones and it affects the menstrual cycle. Teenagers who are overweight are more likely to have this problem, which makes it important for them to follow a healthy lifestyle,” Dr Bakshi said.

• Family History: “PCOS can be genetic. If a girl’s mother or sister has PCOS then her chances of developing it are higher. Also, a mother’s health during pregnancy (overweight or diabetic) can affect the daughter’s hormones later in her life,” the expert said.

• Lifestyle and Diet: When it comes to health, lifestyle including what you eat plays an important role. Dr Bakshi said, “Eating too much junk food, sugary drinks, processed snacks, or doing less physical activity can increase the risk of PCOS. Weight gain and poor diet can make the hormonal problems bad. So, it’s important to follow some simple lifestyle habits like eating nutritious foods, staying active, and having a proper sleep schedule.”

• Early Puberty and Stress: “If a girl starts puberty at a younger age, then she will experience hormonal changes earlier and this can also increase the chance of PCOS. Additionally, stress from school, exams, friends, or social media can also affect the hormones. That’s why it’s important to manage stress by getting enough sleep, doing light exercise, and relaxing regularly to balance the hormones,” Dr Bakshi concluded.

1. What are the common symptoms of PCOS?

Common symptoms include irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and unwanted hair growth. These occur due to the ovaries producing excess male hormones.

2. What causes PCOS?

PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance where ovaries produce extra male hormones, leading to irregular or missed periods, acne, and unusual hair growth.

3. How does insulin resistance relate to PCOS?

Insulin resistance can increase insulin levels, prompting the ovaries to produce more male hormones, affecting the menstrual cycle. Overweight teenagers are more prone to this problem.

4. Can PCOS be hereditary?

Yes, PCOS can be genetic. If a girl's mother or sister has PCOS, her chances of developing it are higher. Additionally, a mother's health during pregnancy can influence the daughter's hormones.

5. How do lifestyle and diet impact PCOS?

A poor diet and inactive lifestyle can increase PCOS risk. Consuming nutritious foods, staying active, and maintaining a proper sleep schedule are essential to manage hormonal problems associated with PCOS.

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.