The silent struggle: PCOS and PCOD on the rise among young Indian women

Across India, an increasing number of adolescent girls and young women are grappling with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) – two hormonal disorders that often go undetected but can have significant long-term health consequences.
Affecting reproductive, metabolic, and psychological well-being, these conditions are becoming more prevalent in the 15–25 age group, largely due to lifestyle factors, urban stress, and lack of awareness.
Health experts estimate that PCOS now affects between 3.7% and 22.5% of Indian women, depending on diagnostic criteria and location. Globally, it is among the most common endocrine disorders, impacting 8–13% of women of reproductive age.
Understanding PCOS and PCOD
Today, the terms PCOS and PCOD are often used interchangeably but medically they are two distinct entities.
Dr. Dhivya Sharona, Consultant – Gynaecology, Rela Hospital Chennai, explains: 'PCOD is a condition where ovulation is affected and there is formation of cysts in the ovaries. Here, the ovaries produce immature and partially mature eggs in large quantities leading to the formation of cysts secreting excess amounts of androgen (male hormone).'
'It is associated with irregular periods, excessive bleeding and painful periods. It is more common than PCOS and affects around 1/3rd women of reproductive age worldwide. It is also less severe than PCOS and has less impact on fertility compared to PCOS. Around 80% women with PCOD are able to conceive with help,' Dr Sharona adds.
On the other hand, PCOS is a syndrome with a spectrum of signs and symptoms including painful periods, weight gain, excessive hair growth, mental health disorder and both presence and absence of cyst formation in the ovaries. The incidence of PCOS is quoted to be between 5-20% in actively menstruating women. It has a high association with obesity along with hypertension, diabetes and heart diseases.
Dr. Nidhi Thakur, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals says that in some cases, ovaries form fluid-filled cysts when the egg is not released properly, leading to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), hormonal disruption, and fertility issues. Despite the name, not all women with PCOS have visible ovarian cysts, which often makes diagnosis difficult.
Recent studies show that most people with PCOS have insulin resistance, where the body's cells don't respond properly to insulin, disrupting hormone balance. Testing for this can help rule out other conditions often mistaken for PCOS.
The challenges
Many young women with PCOS or PCOD go undiagnosed for years. Symptoms like irregular periods, hair growth, or weight fluctuations are often normalised or overlooked. This delay in diagnosis means the condition progresses silently, potentially leading to infertility, insulin resistance, obesity, sleep apnea, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The social stigma around discussing menstrual or reproductive issues also contributes to underdiagnosis. In many cases, women only discover their condition while struggling to conceive or manage other related health complications.
In 2021, a study was undertaken by the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh to assess treatment pathways that patients with PCOS have followed. It revealed that even after having initiated treatment, almost 45% of the patients knew nothing about PCOS. Only 9.1% learned anything from their doctors, and almost 85.5% had to visit multiple doctors to gather information. Some patients (approximately 37%) also took to the internet as their primary source of information in trying to learn about their condition.
Many women, in a different ethnographic study, revealed that they received conflicting information from different health-care professionals about their condition, which generates a "trust deficit." That is, women have begun to lose trust in their doctors because they are not confident about the quality of the information provided to them. There is a disconnect that the patients feel, which can only be bridged through clear communication and helping them understand how the condition and its management go hand in hand.
Lifestyle and prevention: The first line of defense
While there's no permanent cure, PCOS and PCOD can be effectively managed through early intervention and lifestyle changes. A healthy diet, weight management, and regular exercise play a crucial role in restoring hormonal balance and improving insulin sensitivity.
Reducing sugar and processed food intake helps control blood sugar and insulin levels.
Moderate physical activity improves metabolism and regulates the menstrual cycle.
Stress-reduction practices like yoga or meditation help manage hormonal fluctuations.
Even a modest weight loss of 5–10% can significantly improve symptoms and restore ovulation in many cases, says Dr. Nidhi Thakur.
Medical management and costs
Medical treatment typically includes hormonal contraceptives to regulate periods and reduce androgen levels, as well as anti-androgen medications to manage symptoms like excess hair growth. In some cases, laparoscopic ovarian drilling is recommended when medications are ineffective.
The cost of managing PCOS can vary:
Hormonal medications: ₹400–₹800 per month
Surgery (if needed): ₹35,000–₹50,000
Total treatment costs may range from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000, depending on the individual case
Though affordable options are available, the cumulative long-term costs can be high if not managed early.
Long-term impact on health and fertility
If left unmanaged, these diseases can significantly affect a woman's long-term health. The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and endometrial cancer increases with time. PCOS is also a leading cause of infertility, due to chronic anovulation and hormonal imbalance.
Beyond physical symptoms, the condition can have a profound psychological impact. The frustration of dealing with chronic symptoms, weight issues, and fertility concerns can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, making mental health support an important part of the treatment plan.
Importance of early detection and regular check-ups
PCOD and PCOS are on rise due to high stress, poor social and emotional relatedness, sedentary lifestyle, environmental toxins etc. Dr. Dhivya says that the lack of reproductive health education, taboo around discussing female reproduction along with social and cultural notions of women's ability to bear pain render women unable and unwilling to seek necessary help. Thus, both the conditions are significantly under-diagnosed by practitioners and there is a significant information gap that does not offer people the resources they need. Young women are encouraged to consult gynaecologists if they experience irregular menstrual cycles.
Basic screening tests—such as fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, lipid profiles, BMI, and ultrasound scans—can help detect early signs of PCOS and prevent complications. In some cases, consultation with endocrinologists and nutritionists may also be needed for comprehensive care. To effectively tackle this health crisis, we need a major shift in how the conditions are understood and managed. Closing knowledge gaps, creating evidence-based treatment guidelines, and prioritizing lifestyle changes along with complementary therapies—supported by accessible patient education—are all critical steps forward.
A manageable condition with the right support
PCOS and PCOD are chronic but manageable conditions. With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical support, most women can live healthy, fulfilling lives. What's crucial is breaking the silence around menstrual and hormonal health and making gynaecological check ups a routine part of adolescent healthcare.
Raising awareness, both at the family and institutional level, can help young Indian women recognise symptoms early, seek help without stigma, and take control of their health before complications set in.

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

India Gazette

44 minutes ago

• India Gazette

Indian Embassy in Nepal organises series of events to mark 11th International Day of Yoga

Kathmandu [Nepal], June 21 (ANI): The Indian Embassy in Nepal and the Consulate General of India in Birgunj on Saturday organised a series of engaging events across 10 cities and municipalities in Nepal, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lamjung, Lumbini, Janakpur, Chitwan, Birgunj, Hetauda, Rautahat and Bariyarpur to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga. In keeping with this year's theme of 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health,' the Embassy of India organised a curtain-raiser event, including a Yoga demonstration, at the revered Pashupatinath Temple on April 7, marking the 75-day lead-up to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025. As part of the 50-day lead-up to IDY, the Embassy of India conducted a Yoga session at the ECHS Polyclinic in Kathmandu on May 2 with active participation from ex-servicemen of the Indian Army. Additionally, in the 25-day lead-up to IDY 2025, a Yoga session was held with Nepali Army personnel at the Nepal Army HQ ground in Kathmandu on May 27. The Embassy of India organised Yoga posture demonstrations at six UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, namely: Pashupatinath Temple on April 7; Kathmandu Durbar Square on June 6; Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa on June 9; Changu Narayan Temple on June 10; and Patan Durbar Square on June 14. 'These events saw active participation from Yoga enthusiasts and members of the Indian diaspora. The demonstration at Patan Durbar Square witnessed enthusiastic involvement from Nepali celebrities, local authorities, residents, and members of the Indian community,' a release from the Indian Embassy reads. 'Separately, a Yoga session with participation of more than 150 students from various schools in Kathmandu was organised at the premises of Kendriya Vidyalaya, Kathmandu on 13 June 2025. The event also featured an insightful lecture demonstration on the 'Benefits of Saatvik Aahar,' inspiring students to embrace mindful eating rooted in traditional Indian wisdom and holistic wellness,' the release adds. In addition, the Embassy of India partnered with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) to host a Yoga session at the ICIMOD HQ in Kathmandu on June 15. The event was attended by the officials of ICIMOD and Embassy of India, Kathmandu. On June 19, a Yoga demonstration was held in the picturesque Lamjung district, in collaboration with the Madhya Nepal Municipality. In a similar spirit, the Embassy of India conducted Yoga demonstrations at three prominent landmarks in Pokhara: the Sarangkot viewpoint, renowned for its panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range; the Shiva Temple at Pumdikot, where spiritual serenity meets breathtaking vistas; and the Shanti Stupa, gracefully located on the scenic Anadu Hill. Continuing the celebration of Yoga, the Embassy of India hosted a large-scale Yoga and meditation session on June 20 along the serene banks of Lake Phewa in Pokhara. With over 500 participants in attendance, the event highlighted Yoga's profound ability to connect human consciousness with nature. On 20 June 2025, the Embassy of India hosted a large-scale Yoga demonstration at the Lumbini Development Trust in Lumbini, drawing participation from over 500 Yoga enthusiasts. The event was graced by the presence of the Governor of Lumbini, Mr. Krishna Bahadur Gharti, and the Minister of Youth and Sports of Nepal, Mr. Teju Lal Chaudhary. In his address, the Governor of Lumbini expressed his appreciation to the Embassy of India for organising a meaningful Yoga event at the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, acknowledging its significance in strengthening the cultural ties between India and Nepal. Ambassador Naveen Srivastava underscored the universal appeal of Yoga and its vital role in fostering a healthy, mindful, and sustainable lifestyle. The Minister of Youth and Sports of Nepal also extended his gratitude to the Embassy of India for hosting the event and promoting the spirit of wellness and unity through Yoga. 'The main highlight of the Embassy of India's International Day of Yoga celebrations in Nepal in 2025 was a grand Yoga demonstration held at Pokhara's Rangsala Stadium on 21 June, in collaboration with the Pokhara Metropolitan City. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 7000 Yoga practitioners across the region and was graced by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Gandaki Province, Mr. Surendra Raj Pandey, and the Mayor of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Mr. Dhana Raj Acharya,' the release stated. In his address, the Chief Minister extended his gratitude to the Embassy of India for organising the International Yoga Day celebrations in Pokhara on such a remarkable scale. He emphasised that Yoga represents an integral aspect of the enduring and deeply rooted cultural ties between India and Nepal. Ambassador Naveen Srivastava emphasised Yoga's role as a meaningful cultural bridge between the two nations and highlighted the potential of organising such events in key tourist destinations to further promote Yoga tourism in Nepal. The Mayor of Pokhara expressed appreciation for the Embassy's support in positioning Pokhara as Nepal's tourism hub through initiatives like these. The Consulate General of India also organised International Day of Yoga events in Janakpur, Chitwan, Birgunj, Hetauda, Rautahat, and Bariyarpur. The Embassy of India remains committed to fostering people-to-people connections and cultural exchanges with Nepal, grounded in the shared appreciation for Yoga and holistic approaches to health and well-being. (ANI)

Time of India

an hour ago

• Time of India

Health department will start siddha fertility clinic, says min Ma Su

Chennai: The health department will start fertility clinics under the department of Indian medicine on a pilot basis, similar to allopathic fertility clinics, at the Govt Siddha Hospital in Chennai, health minister Ma Subramanian said on Saturday. The minister, who took part in a yoga demonstration as part of International Yoga Day, said the state started three allopathic fertility clinics — one each in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Salem — recognizing the increasing prevalence of infertility and the need for improved access to affordable and high-quality fertility care, as well as further research into the underlying causes and effective prevention strategies. "I read an article by a doctor from this institution who said textbooks of siddha medicine, written centuries ago, prescribe drugs to solve infertility. We will soon start a siddha clinic for fertility on this campus," he said. The state is also working on legislation to set up a siddha university at Madhavaram. The Tamil Nadu Siddha Medical University Bill, 2022, which was tabled in the state legislative assembly, was earlier withdrawn. The govt said it will undertake fresh legislation in tune with the provisions contained in the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act. In 2021-2022, the govt announced it would establish a separate siddha university. A bill passed by the Tamil Nadu assembly on April 28, 2022, was sent for the Governor's assent, but it was sent from Raj Bhavan for the assent of the President. The Centre said certain provisions of the Tamil Nadu Siddha Medical University Bill, 2022, are not in accordance with the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act, 2020. "We will place the new bill in the coming assembly session," Subramanian said. Tamil Nadu is the only state where there are govt-run colleges for five streams of Indian medicine and homeopathy. The govt will fill doctor vacancies in this stream soon.

Time of India

an hour ago

• Time of India

TOI Yogathon: Asanas, Awareness & a Whole Lot of Zen

1 2 Nagpur: The lush lawns of Chitnavis Centre transformed into a vibrant stretch of mats and mindfulness as over 500 yoga enthusiasts gathered for the TOI Yogathon 2025, organised by The Times of India in association with the Raisoni Group and presented by Max Healthcare, to mark International Yoga Day . The event began with pre-dawn warm-ups and progressed into a dynamic session of asanas, meditation, and wellness talks under the open sky. Participants—from tourists to toddlers—embraced the ancient Indian discipline not just as a fitness routine, but as a holistic way of life. Leading the main session, fitness coach Madhumita Ghurbe stressed the need to integrate yoga into daily life. "People often treat yoga like a one-off workout, but the true benefits emerge when it becomes part of your lifestyle—along with good sleep and balanced nutrition," she told the enthusiastic crowd. The audience included people of all age groups—students, homemakers, professionals, senior citizens, and tourists. Among them was Sven Gruel, a German national, who stumbled upon the event online and decided to attend. "Seeing people of all ages practice yoga together in India, the land of its origin, was incredibly fulfilling," he said. The event featured a spectacular yoga pyramid display by children from Chakrasan Sports Association, drawing applause for their grace and balance. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2025 Top Trending Local Enterprise Accounting Software [Click Here] Accounting ERP Click Here Undo Members of Sarvodaya Health Club began their morning with guided meditation and warm-ups, setting a tranquil tone. "This was our first time attending such a public yoga event. After months of regular practice, we've experienced real health benefits," said Vijaya Chandrekapure, a Sarvodaya participant. For many, Yogathon was a reminder of the importance of physical well-being. "We're mentally so active but physically negligent. Yoga helped me bring that imbalance to light," said Sayali Panchabudhe, an MBA student. Her peer Harshal Bhiwapurkar added, "It was eye-opening to learn how internal and external health are interlinked." Real estate professional Sunil Tidke said he turned to yoga to deal with body aches. "Meditation especially helped ease my stress. Watching my daughter perform today was the highlight," he said. Several local walking and fitness groups participated in the Yogathon. Members of the Gorewada Morning Walk Group called it "a rare and enriching opportunity" to break their routine and join a larger wellness movement. The event saw attendance from a wide cross-section of community leaders and dignitaries. Among them were Dr Nilesh Agrawal and Medical Superintendent Dr Santosh Tiwari of Max Healthcare, Sharad Suryawanshi of Krida Bharti. They were joined by several notable figures from various community and social organizations, including Tarun Sharma, president of Lions Club; Anjali Mantri, president of the Marwari Ladies Wing; and Prachi Agrawal, secretary of the same wing. Manali Arora, founder of Dhakkad Group, and Ganesh Bamdekar, secretary of Telugu Samaj, were also present. The Sindhi Samaj was represented by its president Manohar Motsinghani, while Roshan Wakode, president of Raj Towers, and Nilesh Somkuwar, owner of ABS Fitness Gym, were among the local representatives in attendance. Other dignitaries included Ravi Mahulkar, president of Mind Fitness Club; Chandrapal Sonatakke, president of Vittal Rukmani Apartment; Mahesh Chopde, assistant professor at GS College of Economics; and Gauri Jadhav, principal of Base School. The Yogathon concluded with a collective meditation, echoing the theme of this year's celebration: Yoga for Harmony and Healing.