PCOS In Teenagers: Is It Common and How to Manage It?

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance in which the ovaries create an excess of male hormones [Androgens] like testosterone. In PCOS, the ovaries produce more than they normally do, which is unusual. This may result in irregular menstrual cycles, unsightly hair growth, and acne. Treatment is critical because girls and women with PCOS are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and/or high cholesterol. PCOS in teenagers may end up causing infertility and endometrial hyperplasia (uterine lining thickening) in future.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), though not commonly encountered in prepubescent girls, can afflict teenage girls who have begun menstruating. In certain situations, PCOS can lead girls to deal with heavy periods, irregular periods, or even no periods at all. Aside from acne, PCOS symptoms can also include hair growth.

Is PCOS Common in Teenagers?

Around 5% to 10% of teenagers and women between the ages of 15 and 44 have PCOS, making it a common disorder.

Although the exact prevalence of PCOS worldwide is unknown, it is estimated to range between 2.2% and 26%. The prevalence rates range from 2% to 7.5% and 2% to 6.3% in a few Asian nations like China and Sri Lanka, respectively.

Causes & Risk Factors of PCOS in Teens

PCOS is one of the most commonly occurring female endocrine disorders. When hormone levels are either low or too high, endocrine problems occur. They can also happen if the body does not react to hormones as it should.

Doctors are unsure of the precise cause of PCOS. Nevertheless, the condition runs in families, which suggests that it may have hereditary predisposition of hormonal imbalances (specifically, increased amounts of androgens). PCOS cannot exist in girls who have not yet experienced their first menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of PCOS in Teenagers

Common symptoms of PCOS in teens are:

1. Periods that are irregular, too frequent, closely spaced, or nonexistent
2. Hirsutism, that is excessive hair on the face or other parts of the body
3. Acne and blocked pores on the face and body
4. Obesity, weight increase, difficulty decreasing weight, or a combination of all three
5. Patches of black skin (especially on the back of the neck, skin folds), a condition known as acanthosis nigricans
6. Alopecia – a condition marked by the male type hair loss on the head
7. High cholesterol,  blood pressure, or diabetes.

You can understand how some of these signs in a teenage girl might well be disregarded. For instance, acne is prevalent in many females during their teens, with or without PCOS.

Diagnosis of PCOS Symptoms In Teenagers

PCOS symptoms usually start to show up in adolescence or early adulthood. The diagnostic standards comprise:

1. Irregular periods, which point to aberrant ovulation
2. Physical indicators of high androgen levels include excessive body hair
3. Increased levels of androgens in the blood
4. Since many of the symptoms are comparable to typical adolescent changes, it can take some time for teenagers to receive a PCOS diagnosis. For instance, even in teens who do not have PCOS, many experience irregular periods, acne, or rapid body or facial hair development.

Is PCOS in Teens Worrisome?

You should be aware that PCOS is neither fatal nor extremely serious if you are given the diagnosis. To help you manage the side effects of this disease, your healthcare practitioner could suggest making certain lifestyle modifications and scheduling frequent follow-up appointments.

Keeping a healthy weight can benefit some PCOS sufferers with their hormonal irregularities. Losing weight can be challenging for those with PCOS. A dietitian may offer advice on how to achieve your ideal weight, including regular exercise and making sure that your meals contain fruits, vegetables, whole grains,

high-fiber foods and lean proteins.

Additionally, it’s crucial that you consult your doctor if you aren’t having your period on time. To ensure that you have regular menstruation, your doctor may advise the birth control pill or other hormonal supplements.

You should also discuss any unpleasant or inappropriate PCOS-related symptoms with your doctors, such as acne or excessive hair growth. Treatments or medications can frequently be used to minimize these symptoms.

Why is Getting Treatment for PCOS Important?

Although PCOS cannot be cured completely, its symptoms are manageable. A PCOS diagnosis is a crucial first step because receiving treatment lowers the likelihood that a teenager will go on to have other severe issues in the future. PCOS may lead to:

1. Infertility
2. Excessive hair growth and acne
3. Morbid Obesity
4. Diabetes
5. Heart disease
6. High blood pressure
7. Abnormal bleeding from the uterus
8. Cancer

You can learn more about how you can manage her disease by having an open discussion with a doctor about the best therapies at this point in a girl’s life and going forward.

Conclusion

PCOS is becoming a common condition in females nowadays. If you think something is wrong with your periods or if you are showing signs of early puberty, make sure to consult a medical expert. Consider seeking a second opinion if you feel as though your problems are not being taken seriously. The issue of PCOS in teenagers can be resolved without a hassle if the diagnosis is provided at the right time.