Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) is becoming increasingly common among teenage girls, but many do not realize they have it until symptoms start to affect their daily life. Since teenage years already bring a wave of hormonal changes, spotting the early signs of PCOD can be a tricky task. Additionally, they are often mistaken for “just normal teenage stuff.”

The truth is that early detection can make a significant difference in managing PCOS, reducing complications, and improving overall health. Let’s break down the early signs of PCOD that are simple and easy to remember.

What is PCOD?

Polycystic ovary disorder happens when the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones (androgens), leading to irregular ovulation. This hormonal imbalance can trigger a range of symptoms - some are severe, while some are subtle.

Although the exact cause is unknown, genetics, lifestyle, and insulin resistance often play a role. This condition can be managed, but only if it is recognized early.

Early signs of PCOD in teens

The common early symptoms of PCOD in teens include:

• Irregular period: Missing period or unusually long (more than 35 days apart) is the most common symptom of PCOD in teenage girls. In some cases, some teens with PCOD might get their periods only a few times a year.
• Heavy or prolonged periods: Some teens may experience their period as heavier and last longer than usual due to a hormonal imbalance.
• Excessive hair growth: Excessive facial or body hair growth is one of the common signs of PCOD. This usually happens due to the higher-than-usual levels of androgens in the body.
• Severe acne and oily skin: Although acne is normal in puberty, PCOD-related acne is often more severe, especially on the lower face, jawline, and back.
• Sudden weight gain and difficulty losing weight: Many teens with PCOD struggle with weight management. They might find it difficult to lose weight, especially around the lower abdomen, even if they eat healthy and exercise.
• Hair thinning: Higher levels of androgen can cause hair to become thinner on the head while promoting hair growth in unwanted areas.
• Dark patches on skin: Velvety dark patches in the neck, underarms, or groin may appear due to insulin resistance.
• Fatigue and mood swings: Hormonal imbalance often can cause fatigue and trigger mood changes like anxiety.

Why early detection matters in PCOD?

The sooner PCOD is identified, the better the chances of managing it without severe long-term effects. If left untreated, PCOD can cause significant health risks like:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Infertility
• High cholesterol
• Heart issues
• Depression and anxiety

Therefore, to diagnose PCOD, you can get Thyrocare packages for PCOD. If you want to examine your entire body, you can opt for a PCOD profile test from Thyrocare.

How can teens manage PCOD naturally?

Here are a few ways in which you can manage PCOD naturally:

• Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables or fruits. Also, you need to reduce sugar consumption.
• Get quality sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every day to manage hormonal imbalance.
• Limit junk food: Cut down on eating junk, fried, or processed foods.
• Manage stress: Practice meditation, yoga, or journaling to reduce stress.

Final thoughts

PCOD in teens is more common than one can imagine. But fortunately, it is manageable by spotting the early signs and making healthy lifestyle changes. By making certain changes in lifestyle and eating style, teenagers can manage symptoms effectively and reduce the risk of future complications. The key is awareness, consistency, and a proactive approach to health.