Gynaecologist explains why PCOS is rising among young women in India: ‘Main contributors are excessive…’

Over the past decade, women’s health concerns have shifted dramatically, with hormonal disorders becoming alarmingly common. Among them, PCOS has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing young women in India today.

PCOS is increasingly prevalent among young Indian women, driven by lifestyle factors like poor diet and inactivity.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Irfana Shahul Hameed, obstetrician and gynaecologist with Plush, shares why PCOS is rising among young Indian women and the key signs to watch. (Also read: Gynaecologist warns of rising lung cancer risk among women who spend hours in kitchen: ‘Cooking fumes can be dangerous’ )

Lifestyle factors driving the rise of PCOS

PCOS is increasingly common among young women in India, and lifestyle factors play a major role in this rise. The main contributors are excessive weight gain, poor diet, and lack of regular physical activity. Modern sedentary lifestyles, frequent consumption of processed foods, and irregular meal patterns all contribute to hormonal imbalances that can trigger PCOS.

The early signs of PCOS can be subtle but are important to recognise. These include irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty losing weight despite efforts, premenstrual spotting, and sometimes heavy menstrual bleeding. Skin and hair changes, such as acne, hair fall, or baldness, are often linked to elevated androgen levels. Other warning signs include fatigue, stubborn weight, and changes in sexual drive. Recognising these signs early allows for timely intervention and better management.

Menstrual tracking aids in managing PCOS by monitoring cycles, sleep, and hormonal levels. (Shutterstock)

The role of menstrual tracking in managing PCOS

Menstrual tracking has become an invaluable tool in recent years for understanding and managing PCOS. Beyond simply tracking the cycle, women can now monitor sleep patterns, heart rate variability, ovulation, and progesterone levels in the second half of their cycle. This real-time data helps women understand how their bodies function, identify trends, and make informed decisions about lifestyle, nutrition, and treatment.

Period tracking is more than knowing whether your cycles are on time—it offers insights into overall hormonal health. For women with PCOS or other hormonal irregularities, it can reveal patterns in symptoms, guide lifestyle adjustments, and help them work with healthcare providers to manage their condition more effectively.

By combining early recognition of symptoms with proactive menstrual tracking and lifestyle adjustments, young women can better manage PCOS and reduce its long-term impact on health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.