Why PCOS is on the rise among Indian women?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, was first brought to light in 1935. Irrespective of its existence for more than 70 years, there is still a major lack of awareness surrounding this condition. The unawareness and the absence of open communication around menses and related conditions could be one of the primary reasons why many women cannot detect abnormal symptoms in the initial stages leading to a full-blown diagnosis of PCOS or PCOD. The prevalence of PCOS and the statistics across the globe is alarming. The PCOS India stats are not any better either.  

Millions of women all over the world are dealing with this condition that is complex and can have severe life-altering consequences. As if the physical and mental pain associated with periods was not enough, PCOS comes with its grappling challenges that more than 10 million women in the world are estimated to deal with. 

Know more about the rise of the polycystic ovarian syndrome: 1 in 5 women in India

A large-scale study conducted at AIIMS’ department of endocrinology and metabolism revealed that about 20-25% of women in India who are at the prime of their ‘childbearing’ age are dealing with conditions like PCOS. They have taken a deeper dive into the PCOS India statistics and have studied this condition about other medical issues like obesity, fatty liver, insulin resistance, presence of androgens, etc. Another correlated, not causal factor, could also be the lack of time and care Indian women give themselves at any stage in life. Despite the growth and development of medical technologies and facilities in India, very few women avail of the services provided to them. This could be owing to the general lack of awareness surrounding this condition. 

Several reports and studies have shown that there is a significant rise in the number of menstrual problems in women in India. PCOS is as common as 1 in every 5 women in India. A recent study in 2022 has reported a rise in the percentage of menstrual problems faced by women. In 2020, almost 32.8% of women reported menstrual problems which rose to 38.8% in 2021. Similarly, the 2020 PCOS India stats were 29 percent as opposed to an increase in 2021 to 31 percent.

What Exactly Happens in PCOS?

PCOS is a common metabolic condition that is primarily prevalent and seen in women once they begin puberty. In PCOS, the ovaries produce excessive amounts of male hormones called androgens. While androgens are a common find in women’s bodies in trace amounts, PCOS escalates the secretion of these hormones greatly creating several complications to the usual menstrual cycle and other body-related issues. 

In polycystic ovary syndrome, several small cysts, or sacs filled with fluid, are formed in the ovaries. It is a complex condition as imaging tests show that some women who have been diagnosed with PCOS do not develop cysts on their ovaries. Moreover, it is also seen that women who do not have PCOS sometimes report these cysts. 

An added complication of PCOS also affects the process of ovulation. Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary. During conception, this egg is then fertilized by the male sperm. If fertilization does not occur, the egg is expelled from the body in the menstrual cycle. In certain cases, the body might not be able to make enough hormones required for seamless ovulation. This is when cysts develop and make androgens. Women with PCOS often report higher levels of androgens in their bodies that, in turn, cause more issues with the menstrual cycle. Also know about best medicine for diabetes in India.

Causes of irregular PCOD

To get the best treatment for PCOS in India, scientists and doctors have researched and conducted multiple studies to first understand the potential causes of the condition. However, the exact cause of the condition can still not be pinpointed to a single factor. It is often a cluster of different issues that can lead to the eventual development of a full-blown diagnosis of PCOS. Multiple factors come into play while causing such issues. 

• Higher levels of production of male hormones – When androgens are present in much larger quantities than the normal amount, they can create issues with the normal cycle and can also result in the growth of acne and excess hair
• Insulin resistance – An increase in insulin can also result in the production of androgens that can suppress ovulation and contribute to the development of PCOS.
• Underlying issues like hormonal imbalances, stress, thyroid-related troubles, etc.

What is the recommended treatment and diagnosis?

To get a good PCOS medicine name in India, the proper diagnosis would be important. While assessing you for symptoms of this condition, the healthcare provider will seek the following information and perform the following tests:

• Symptoms and medical history
• Family medical history
• Weight, BMI, and blood pressure
• Physical exam to check for excessive hair growth, acne, discoloration, hair loss, etc
• Pelvic exam to check for swollen ovaries or other types of growth in the uterus
• Blood test and a detailed hormone test. 
• Ultrasound imaging tests to spot the cysts, their number, and size, along with checking the lining of the uterus

The treatment options could be medicines and lifestyle changes. The best treatment for PCOS in India would often be a combination of these two. Hormonal birth control pills can help with boosting the production of estrogen and can also reduce the growth of acne and hair on the body. Drugs that can help to block the secretion of androgens and regulate insulin are also prescribed. If diagnosed with PCOS, certain changes in the lifestyle – regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet – low carbs, less sugar, etc, keeping your weight in check, yoga, and many other natural remedies work best in tandem with medication. Also know about the pcos weight loss.

How to prevent it?

Unfortunately, there is no proven way that can work in the prevention of PCOS, especially since the cause is unknown and can be different for different women. At times, this condition can also impact a person suddenly without any warning signs. However, a few steps that can be taken would be to be aware of the signs and symptoms that may occur initially in this condition. Being vigilant about excess period pain, skipped cycles, irregular menses, acne and hair growth, etc could be warning signs. Women who have a family history of menstrual issues are at higher risk for the development of this condition and can get their hormone levels tested at regular intervals along with imaging tests as per the recommendation of the gynecologists. PCOS India statistics show the high prevalence and prevention of the condition would be ideal. 

Bottomline

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome affects 1 out of 5 women in India making it one of the most commonly occurring medical conditions among women. It can affect not only the menses but also have long-term effects like infertility. Getting tested and diagnosed at the early stages would work wonders in the mitigation of the overall symptoms. With the best treatment for PCOS in India in terms of medication that is available and a healthy lifestyle, it is something that can be managed. Also know about blood sugar normal range.

FAQs

Why is PCOS so common in India?

Studies have shown a high prevalence of PCOS India stats among women as they have found a correlation between poor lifestyle, eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of overall awareness. The increase in hormonal issues in women in India has led to the development of PCOS. 

Is PCOS a lifelong disease?

Yes, despite having a plethora of medical care options, PCOS is a lifelong disease. The symptoms, however, can be managed with proper care and timely attention.

Can PCOS go away naturally?

PCOS occurs due to several reasons and causes, since it is a hormonal condition, it might require medication and other changes to reduce the effects and lead a normal lifestyle. It does not go away naturally. 

Is PCOS curable permanently?

Once diagnosed, PCOS cannot be cured. This is another reason why PCOS India prevalence is only growing. A woman will learn how to manage the symptoms associated with her diagnosis and keep certain lifestyle factors intact to reduce the complications that may accompany PCOS. 

Is yoga good for PCOS?

Instead of looking for the best PCOS medicine name in India, yoga would be a good option to skillfully manage the symptoms that are associated with excess androgens. It also helps with the regulation of insulin and uses up the glucose in the body – which can be contributing factors to PCOS. Yoga can also help with burning excess fat and weight leading to better symptom management.