Struggling with irregular periods, sudden weight gain, or stubborn acne? It could be more than just “hormones acting up.”
These are some of the most common sexual health questions that often get ignored in conversations about women’s sexual health.
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and hormonal imbalances in women affect millions of Indian women—yet so many suffer in silence, dismissing their symptoms as “normal.”
But here’s the truth: PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in India, and hormonal imbalances can wreak havoc on your body if left unchecked. From unpredictable periods and excessive facial hair to mood swings and energy crashes, these issues aren’t just frustrating—they’re a sign that your body needs support.
So how do you know if your symptoms are related to PCOS or a hormonal imbalance? And more importantly, what can you do about it? Let’s break it down.
What Is PCOS, and Why Does It Happen?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a hormonal disorder that affects 1 in 5 Indian women. It occurs when your ovaries produce too many androgens (male hormones), disrupting your menstrual cycle and causing a range of symptoms.
Common signs of PCOS include:
- Irregular or missed periods (or no periods at all)
- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or back
- Acne that won’t go away, even with skincare treatments
- Unexplained weight gain (especially around the stomach)
- Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness
- Difficulty getting pregnant due to irregular ovulation
- Did you know? Many women with PCOS aren’t diagnosed until they struggle with fertility—even though early intervention can help manage symptoms effectively.
These are all core PCOS symptoms, and recognising them early can make a huge difference
PCOS and Hormonal Imbalance: What’s the Connection?
PCOS isn’t the only hormonal imbalance Indian women face. Stress, diet, lifestyle, and genetics all play a role in disrupting your body’s delicate hormonal balance.
Some common hormonal imbalances include:
- Estrogen Dominance – Can lead to heavy periods, breast tenderness, and mood swings
- Thyroid Imbalances – Can cause fatigue, unexplained weight changes, and hair loss
- Insulin Resistance (common in PCOS) – Can trigger weight gain, sugar cravings, and stubborn belly fat
The problem? Many Indian women are told to “just lose weight” or “wait it out.” But untreated PCOS and hormonal imbalances can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.
How Do You Know If You Have a Hormonal Imbalance?
If you experience any of these signs, it’s time to listen to your body:
- Your period is irregular, missing, or comes with extreme pain
- You’re gaining weight despite eating healthy and exercising
- You have mood swings, anxiety, or unexplained fatigue
- You have excessive facial/body hair or sudden hair thinning
- You crave sugar constantly or feel tired after eating
Managing PCOS & Hormonal Imbalances: What You Can Do Today
While there’s no permanent cure for PCOS, the right lifestyle changes, medications, and expert support can help you take control of your health.
1. Get a Diagnosis
A simple blood test and ultrasound can confirm if you have PCOS or a hormonal imbalance. Many women suffer for years without a diagnosis—but getting clarity is the first step toward feeling better.
2. Balance Your Diet
- Reduce refined carbs and sugar to manage insulin levels.
- Eat protein-rich, fiber-filled meals to regulate hormones.
- Add healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and avocados for hormonal support.
3. Move Your Body (Without Overdoing It!)
- Walking & strength training for steady fat loss
- Yoga & Pilates to reduce stress and balance hormones
4. Prioritize Mental & Emotional Well-being
- Meditation & deep breathing
- Quality sleep (7-9 hours)
- Talking to a doctor or counselor
References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353443
- https://www.allarahealth.com/blog/pcos-insulin-resistance-blog
- https://www.parashospitals.com/blogs/understanding-pcos-symptoms
