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What Every Woman Should Know About PCOS: Q&A Session with an Expert

  • decodeMR Team
  • 10 hours ago
  • 3 min read


Welcome to the new episode of Inline! 


In this episode, we turn our attention to one of the most common hormonal disturbances affecting women of reproductive age — Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).  


According to the World Health Organization, PCOS affects an estimated 6–13% of women in this age group, and alarmingly, up to 70% remain undiagnosed worldwide. 


What makes PCOS particularly challenging is its complexity. It presents differently in every woman and often mimics normal adolescent changes, which leads to delayed diagnosis and, in many cases, missed opportunities for early intervention. 


To help us explore the complexities of PCOS, we are joined by Dr. Mahua Chanda, a renowned Gynecologist & Obstetrician from Neotia Mediplus OPD & Diagnostics Clinic, Kolkata, India. Dr. Chanda shares valuable insights on the symptoms, risk factors, and complications of PCOS, and highlights the long-term health consequences if left untreated. She also discusses its impact on fertility and pregnancy, as well as the crucial role of awareness and education in empowering young women to take charge of their health. 


Key Discussion Points 


Understanding PCOS (0:40) 


  • A hormonal disorder affecting nearly 1 in 10 women of reproductive age 

  • Caused by excess production of male hormones (androgens), leading to cyst formation and irregular ovulation 

  • Impacts reproductive, metabolic, and even mental health over time 


Causes and Risk Factors (2:06) 


  • Strong genetic link — women with family history of PCOS or diabetes are more likely to develop it 

  • Obesity and insulin resistance further aggravate hormonal imbalance 

  • Lifestyle factors such as diet and physical inactivity can worsen symptoms 


Recognizing Symptoms (3:47) 


  • Menstrual irregularities: absent, infrequent, or prolonged periods 

  • Signs of excess androgens: excessive hair growth, acne, scalp hair thinning 

  • Other warning signs: darkening of skin (acanthosis nigricans), weight gain, or persistent symptoms after puberty 


Diagnostic Challenges (5:13) 


  • Symptoms often overlap with normal adolescent changes, making early recognition difficult 

  • Ultrasound alone is not enough — diagnosis requires combining clinical symptoms, hormone tests, and imaging 

  • Excluding similar conditions (e.g., adrenal disorders) is key for accuracy 


Potential Complications (6:10) 


  • Reproductive: difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation 

  • Metabolic: increased risk of type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease 

  • Psychological: anxiety, depression, and poor quality of life if left unmanaged 


Fertility Management (7:38) 


  • First-line approach: lifestyle modifications and weight reduction, which can restore ovulation 

  • Medications: ovulation-inducing drugs and insulin-sensitizers like Metformin 

  • Advanced options: assisted reproduction techniques, including IVF 


Pregnancy Risks in PCOS (9:12) 


  • Higher risk of miscarriage compared to the general population 

  • Increased likelihood of gestational diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy 

  • Possible complications such as preterm birth requiring close monitoring 


Lifestyle Interventions (10:26) 


  • Diet plays the biggest role: focus on balanced, home-cooked meals, avoid processed sugar and unhealthy fats 

  • Exercise is essential: at least 10–15 minutes daily of walking, yoga, swimming, or other activities 

  • Consistency in meal timing, portion control, and adequate hydration support long-term management 


Awareness and Early Detection (12:10) 


  • Schools and healthcare settings should provide education on menstrual health and PCOS 

  • Teaching girls to recognize symptoms early reduces anxiety and delays in seeking care 

  • Encouraging open conversations with teachers, peers, and doctors empowers young women to take charge of their health 


Take-Home Messages 


  • PCOS is a common but complex hormonal disorder that requires timely recognition and management 

  • Genetic and lifestyle factors play a significant role in its onset and progression 

  • Early attention to symptoms like irregular cycles, acne, hair growth, and skin changes can prevent long-term complications 

  • Lifestyle changes—diet, exercise, and weight management—remain the cornerstone of prevention and treatment 

  • With proper care, women with PCOS can lead healthy lives, achieve successful pregnancies, and reduce risks of future health problems 

  • Awareness and education from a young age are crucial in empowering women to take charge of their reproductive and overall health 


About Dr. Mahua Chanda: 


Dr. Mahua Chanda is a senior Gynecologist & Obstetrician with nearly 20 years of experience, currently practicing at Neotia Mediplus OPD & Diagnostics Clinic and Apollo Clinic, Kolkata, India. Dr. Chanda specializes in women’s health, infertility, IVF, and sexology, managing a wide range of conditions such as PCOS, menstrual disorders, infertility, and pregnancy-related complications. She is also experienced in advanced procedures including IVF, hysteroscopy, myomectomy, and prenatal testing. 



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