Latest news with #PCOD
The Print
2 hours ago
- Health
- The Print
How PCOS wrecks your skin & hair—and what you can do about it
But before you can do that, you should know how PCOS affects your hair and skin. PCOS doesn't discriminate, nor does it play fair. But that doesn't mean you can't take control of your hair and skin. One in every five Indian women today has PCOS. And it's PCOS, not PCOD—it stands for polycystic ovary syndrome, which is not a disease. The condition comes with hormonal imbalance, acne, unwanted hair growth, and makes you truly wonder if you're part wolf. To put it simply, PCOS is your hormones throwing a rager that never seems to end, with your hair and skin as the unfortunate victims. It involves higher levels of androgens, which are hormones regulating muscle growth, bone density, and hair growth. They're sometimes called 'male hormones' because they're usually present in higher levels in men. Because of excess androgens, you'll be dealing with: D eep, annoying , and painful nodulocystic acne Hair growth on the chin, upper lip, areola, and belly button T hinning hair and female pattern baldness Skin darkening and dark patches So what should you do differently? Skincare with PCOS If you have PCOS, you're not just dealing with occasionally oily or sensitive skin; it's all that and more. This is precisely why a regular skincare routine might not cut it for you. Here's what you should do instead: 1. Acne Acne usually responds better to surface-level applications of salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. But PCOS acne is deeper, more rooted, cystic, and quite stubborn. Here's what you'll need: Retinoids (prescription or OTC adapalene) to increase the speed at which your skin cells turn over Niacinamide to help your skin control its oil (production?) without irritation 2. Hair removal For those not bogged down with PCOS, waxing and shaving work just fine as hair removal techniques. However, if you have PCOS, then you're dealing with thicker, darker hair, which means more ingrown hair situations and subsequent irritation after shaving. Here's what you should try: Laser hair reduction , a long – term fix that is worth investing in E lectrolysis for particularly stubborn spots Avoid frequent waxing, as it can lead to hyperpigmentation. 3. Tanning and hyperpigmentation If you have PCOS, your tans are going to stick around like a bad ex. But there's no cause for alarm. You can fix PCOS hyperpigmentation with: Vitamin C serums , which brighten dark spots C hemical exfoliants like AHAs/BHAs , which even out skin tone Sunscreen (Applying SPF 50+ every day is absolutely non-negotiable. ) Also read: Don't scratch mosquito bites. Here is how to deal with itching, redness Hair care with PCOS This goes without saying, but PCOS–related hair loss is not even close to regular hair thinning. This is because androgens shrink hair follicles, which eventually leads to hair thinning at the crown of your head and forehead. Somewhat paradoxically, PCOS also causes another condition called hirsutism: the growth of excess body hair. Dealing with these changes is often anxiety-inducing, and it causes endless frustration. After consulting with your trusted dermatologist, here's what you should do: Try using m inoxidil or R ogaine to stimulate hair growth Make sure your vitamin D and Iron counts are at the optimum levels A void tight hairstyles and buns and extreme heat exposure Never use anything sulphate-based for your hair Also read: Your lips need SPF too. There's a risk of long-term damage The extra mile Beyond the medications you might be on for PCOS, you also need to do your bit to give your body a fighting chance. 1. Diet Say n o to all sugars and processed carbohydrates , which spike your insulin levels and aggravate PCOS Include more protein and omega-3 fatty acid s as they will help lower inflammation Drink spearmint tea to lower androgen levels 2. Exercise Do c ardio and strength training to balance your insulin and reproductive hormones T ry yoga or pilates to reduce your cortisol levels 3. Supplements After consulting with your dermatologist, here are some supplement options you could consider: Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol , the game changers in terms of insulin resistance Vitamin D3 Zinc and magnesium , which help lower stress and acne PCOS makes one realise how deep-rooted certain issues can be—a regular skincare routine doesn't cut it. You need a more holistic approach that covers all bases. The key thing to remember is being patient: hormones don't correct themselves overnight. Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a Consultant Dermatologist, Max Hospital, Saket. She is also an anti-allergy specialist, laser surgeon and internationally trained aesthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc. Views are personal. (Edited by Prasanna Bachchhav)
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
PCOS and PCOD on the rise in Indian women: Differences between the two and and symptoms to watch out for
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) are two of the most common health issues in women of reproductive age, across the globe. Closer home studies suggest that about 1 in 5 young Indian women suffer from these conditions, which is much higher than the global average. The conditions not just affect fertility, but can also result in a host of health issues. Let's dig deeper... Understanding the difference between PCOD and PCOS PCOS and PCOD both are hormonal disorders affecting female ovaries, the organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. While the two are used interchangeably, there are some minor differences. Let's understand them first. PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) occurs when ovaries produce immature or partially mature eggs in huge numbers, which can form cysts. This causes the ovaries to enlarge and produce excess male hormones (androgens), leading to symptoms like irregular periods and weight gain. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a more complex condition where the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones, causing hormonal imbalance, missed periods, and difficulty in conceiving. Both conditions can lead to problems in the menstrual cycle (though this is not always the case) and can cause long-term health problems. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo What causes these conditions Lifestyle changes: Lack of exercise, unhealthy diet, and obesity are linked to insulin resistance, which can worsen PCOS symptoms. Genetics: Family often comes to play in PCOS/PCOD as women often have mothers or sisters with the same condition. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals and stress may also contribute to the conditions. Signs and symptoms to watch out for The symptoms of PCOS and PCOD can vary from mild to severe, and not all women will experience the same symptom or the severity. The only way to confirm the same is through an Ultrasound test. Symptoms often appear in the late teens or early twenties, but are not limited to that age bracket only. Let's take a look... Menstrual problems One of the most common symptoms is irregular menstruation. Women may experience fewer periods than normal (oligomenorrhea), skipped periods, or no periods at all (amenorrhea). This happens because the hormonal imbalance meddles with ovulation—the release of eggs from the ovaries. This results in irregular ovulation, ending in menstrual issues. Difficulty getting pregnant Since PCOS and PCOD affect ovulation, many women are unable to conceive till they are treated, though it is not impossible to get pregnant with these conditions. Many women conceive without even knowing they suffer from the same. More hair growth than usual High levels of male hormones cause unwanted hair growth on the face, chest, back, stomach, and other parts of the body. You might see it on your chin as well, which is a common symptom of the two conditions. Weight gain Many women with PCOS/PCOD gain weight easily, especially around the belly. Insulin resistance, a common feature of these conditions, makes weight management harder. Again, this could also be a symptom of other conditions, and not just indicative of PCOS/PCOD. Acne Hormonal imbalance can cause persistent acne, especially on the face, chest, and upper back. Some women also experience oily skin. Hair thinning Some women notice thinning hair or male-pattern baldness, where hair gradually falls out from the scalp. Dark patches Areas like the neck, underarms, and under the breasts may develop dark, thickened skin patches called acanthosis nigricans, which are linked to insulin resistance. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
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Business Standard
09-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
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.
Hindustan Times
05-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Weight gain to acne: Doctor explains 6 common challenges faced by women due to PCOS; shares prevention tips
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects a large number of women worldwide. It is often characterised by symptoms such as weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, excessive facial hair, and mood swings. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Manjusha Goel, lead consultant, dept of obstetrics and gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi spike about the common challenges that women face due to PCOS. One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles, which can make it difficult to predict periods and may lead to complications such as endometrial thickening. Hormonal imbalances can prevent ovulation, making it harder for women with PCOS to conceive. It's one of the leading causes of infertility among women. Also read | Acne to infertility: Hidden impact of PCOS on women's health Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. PCOS is also linked with insulin resistance, which can further contribute to weight issues and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Excess androgen levels in PCOS can lead to skin problems like acne and unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), which can affect self-esteem and confidence. The physical symptoms, along with issues like infertility and body image concerns, often lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. If left unmanaged, PCOS can increase the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and endometrial cancer. Weight management: Even a modest weight loss (5-10%) can significantly improve hormonal balance, restore menstrual regularity, and enhance fertility. Healthy diet: A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while low in refined sugars and processed carbs, can help regulate insulin and support hormone balance. Regular exercise: Physical activity not only helps with weight management but also improves insulin sensitivity, mood, and overall well-being. Hormonal birth control: Oral contraceptives can regulate periods, reduce acne, and lower the risk of endometrial cancer. Metformin: Commonly used to improve insulin sensitivity and help with menstrual regularity. Androgen-blocking medications: These can help reduce symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth. Fertility treatments: For women trying to conceive, ovulation-inducing medications or assisted reproductive technologies may be recommended. Also read | Difference between PCOS and PCOD: Their symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention Laparoscopic surgery: In some cases, procedures like ovarian drilling can help stimulate ovulation. Regular health checkups: Monitoring blood sugar, cholesterol, and hormonal levels is essential. Support groups and counseling: Emotional support through peer groups or therapy can help cope with the psychological effects. Family and social support: Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in emotional well-being and long-term management. Educational programs: Awareness and education help women understand the condition better and encourage timely intervention. Note to readers: 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.
NDTV
05-06-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Can Laser Hair Removal Give You A Beard? We Asked Experts
Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. A viral video claims laser hair removal can cause paradoxical hair growth. The condition, known as paradoxical hypertrichosis, is a rare side effect of laser hair removal. Experts note that underlying hormonal imbalances can trigger unwanted hair growth after treatment. A viral video circulating on social media has sparked widespread concern after claiming that laser hair removal can, paradoxically, cause excess hair growth. In some cases, it may even lead to the development of a beard-like appearance. The Viral Video In the viral video, Instagram user Shraddha shared that a laser treatment triggered more noticeable and coarser growth of hair on her face. In the caption, she said, "I wasn't sure about posting this till I realised how many people are and could be in the same situation as me! Paradoxical Hypertrichosis is way more common that people realise, specifically amongst people that look like me". What Is Paradoxical Hypertrichosis Paradoxical hypertrichosis is a rare side effect of laser hair removal, which is an unexpected increase in hair growth, particularly in areas treated with laser or light-based hair removal methods. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shraddha✨ (@shr9ddha) Now, while laser hair removal is considered one of the best treatments to remove unwanted hair from the face and body, it might, sometimes, result in a beard of sorts. According to the Mayo Clinic, laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated laser to remove unwanted hair. So, can it result in unwanted hair growth? NDTV asked experts to clear the air. Does Laser Hair Removal Lead To Unwanted Hair Growth? Dr Raina Nahar, Consultant Dermatology at PD Hinduja Hospital & MRC, Khar, Maharashtra, explains that there are different types of laser hair removal treatments, including diode and double wavelength lasers. These target hair growth, its thickness, and the colour of the roots. This would go as planned and will have satisfactory results unless you have an underlying problem. Laser hair removal works by using concentrated light energy to damage hair follicles, inhibiting future hair growth. So, what is the underlying problem we're talking about? Underlying Problems Dr Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist, Dr Shareefa Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai, says, "So, the problem is that people don't mention their underlying hormonal imbalances, including hypothyroidism, hypoandrogenism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), hyperprolactinemia, which will trigger the hair to grow again and again, that may cause unwanted hair growth. In such cases, fine facial hair may turn into terminal beard-like hair growth for women. So the underlying condition will stimulate the hair to keep growing back. It's not the laser that triggers hair growth but paradoxical hair growth." "The phenomenon of increased hair growth after laser hair removal is often referred to as 'paradoxical hypertrichosis'. It is important to note that this side effect is relatively rare and not universally experienced," adds Dr Chause. She adds that hormonal changes, pre-existing hormonal imbalances, and genetic predispositions can influence hair growth patterns. Additionally, if an inappropriate laser setting is used, it may stimulate hair follicles rather than inhibit them. Consulting Your Doctor Is Important As per the experts, the best way to avoid a negative outcome is by discussing your medical history with your doctor before you sign up for the treatment. If you don't, you will have "long-term problems that even after 10-15 sessions you may come back to square one. It is vital to go to the dermatologist and understand the reason for your facial hair growth and get the right treatment to get the best results," adds Dr Nahar. Experts emphasise the importance of consulting a certified dermatologist or technician before undergoing a laser treatment, especially for facial hair. You should get a proper diagnosis of underlying hormonal issues which are crucial to avoid unintended effects. While laser hair removal is generally safe and effective, this viral video highlights the need for personalised treatment plans and public awareness of the side effects, though uncommon, of laser hair removal.
