Study reveals 70% of Indian women face PCOS and menstrual health issues

Survey suggests around 70% of Indian women suffer from menstrual health issues

Gynoveda, world’s first Ayurveda FemTech brand, conducted India’s largest period health survey with 3 lakh women from age bracket of 18-45 years. The survey showed that nearly 70% Indian women face problems related to menstrual health.

The respondents were divided into three groups based on the prevalence, severity and bodily changes. The study shows 70 % of women who participated in the study suffer from menstrual disorder like PCOS. Around 26% women suffer from discomfort, infections, or irregularities affecting their overall vaginal health and quality of life. Only 4% women out of the respondents registered no menstrual disorder.

Among the key findings, it was discovered that a significant 60% of women in the age group of 25 to 34 suffer from PCOS. However, what is even more alarming is that 51% of women in the age group of less than 24 years are affected by this condition.

The research suggests that PCOS isn’t bound by age. It also shows that PCOS has a huge impact on fertility in women. According to detailed research by the National Institute of Health (Government of India), the prevalence of infertility among women with PCOS ranges from 70% to 80%.

While PCOS stands out as a predominant concern, the Gynoveda report also reveals other gynecological disorders afflicting women in India. Approximately 54% of women surveyed suffer from PCOS, making it the most prevalent menstrual disorder. However, it is closely followed by Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), affecting 17% of the female population. Candidiasis affects 9%, Fibroid impacts 5%, and Endometrial Hyperplasia is observed in 1% of the respondents.

The survey also highlighted issues related to menstrual irregularity and pain during menstruation. An overwhelming 83% of women reported experiencing painful periods, necessitating the use of painkillers each month. Of these, 58% described their pain as mild and bearable, while 25% reported severe pain. Around 76% of women reported irregular periods with scanty flow.

The study reveals almost half of the women indicated usage of 5 pads throughout a menstrual cycle instead of advised 10 to 12 pads per cycle for a healthy menstrual flow.

PCOS also affects physical changes and emotional distress. Around 60% of women participating in the survey reported weight gain as an issue due to PCOS. Excessive facial hair growth, was noted in 59% of respondents. Skin problems like acne affected 55% of women, while pigmentation and other hormonal skin issues troubled 51%.

Rachana Gupta, Co-founder at Gynoveda, who led the research said, “The strategically designed period test complemented by the insights from doctors, customers, and respondents ensures accuracy and efficacy. By utilizing the insights from this test and combining with Ayurvedic formulations and doctor support, Gynoveda has remarkably impacted over 200,000 lives in just 3 years since its inception and aims to continue the exceptional community work.”

The survey shed light on the intricate challenges faced by women battling this condition, revealing a pressing need for awareness and holistic management. It emphasized the complexity of the hormonal disorder, PCOS.

Gynoveda's mission is to embark on a transformative journey to combat PCOS. This pivotal mission depends on an intricate exploration into the multifaceted challenges these women encounter, illuminating a path toward comprehensive well-being guided by symptom mapping.