PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a hormonal disorder that is commonly seen in teenagers nowadays, leading to several health complications like irregular or delayed periods, abnormal hair growth, skin problems like acne, difficulty in managing a healthy weight, thinning of the hair, and darkening of the skin.

PCOS can take a heavy toll on one’s physical and emotional well-being. It can affect women of all ages including teenage girls.

Multiple factors can contribute to the occurrence of PCOS such as genetics, hormonal imbalance, and insulin resistance. It can also elevate your risk of experiencing potential health issues such as infertility or problems in conceiving naturally, higher chances of miscarriages, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart diseases.

Body image issues in teenagers diagnosed with PCOS

While we are all aware of the physical issues that PCOS can cause, we often tend to overlook the mental problems that it brings with itself. Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Padma Srivastava, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, about how PCOS can impact the emotional wellbeing of teenage girls.

She explained how living with PCOS can be overwhelming and stressful for teenage girls. The physical and psychological changes associated with PCOS can negatively affect their mental and emotional health. Sudden physical changes such as weight gain, excessive hair growth (hirsutism) around the areas like the face or chest, and skin darkening, particularly on the neck can significantly impact their self-esteem and self-worth.

"At times, these girls may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their physical appearance, which further leads to mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. Over time this can lead to feelings of agitation, frustration, irritation, sadness, stress, guilt, self-doubt and restlessness. It can worsen their symptoms while leading to isolation, loneliness, and even self-destructive thoughts," Dr Padma said.

Exacerbated by social media, where they constantly compare themselves to celebrities and influencers, they may seek quick fixes like cosmetic procedures or trendy treatments to address acne or hair thinning. However, these quick fixes can often lead to unintended side effects.

Tips to effectively manage PCOS and body image issues in teen girls

Managing PCOS needs a multifaceted approach that may take a few weeks or even months to show desired results. Make sure you talk to your friends, families, and loved ones and let them know about your emotional struggle. Expressing your emotions can help you ease your mental load while providing you great relief. One can try journalising their thoughts as some may feel hesitant to discuss their insecurities or shortcomings with others. One shouldn’t feel embarrassed or shy and schedule a health checkup with a doctor to effectively manage their condition.

Your doctor may closely examine the symptoms experienced and recommend certain tests, medications, and lifestyle changes for optimal results. Adhere to the lifestyle modifications such as eating a healthy and well-balanced diet that contains plenty of nutrients, stress-managing techniques like deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and mental load, and getting 7 to 8 hours of sound sleep daily.

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