How does PCOS affect teenage girls’ mental health? Expert offers tips to protect your emotional well-being

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

Polycystic ovary syndrome can seriously affect a person’s physical and emotional well-being. It can affect women of all ages, including teenagers.

There are multiple factors that can contribute to the onset of PCOS, including genetics, hormonal imbalance, and insulin resistance. It can also increase the risk of potential health problems, including infertility or trouble conceiving naturally, increased chances of miscarriages, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Body image issues in adolescents diagnosed with PCOS

While we are all aware of the physical problems that PCOS can cause, we often tend to overlook the mental problems that come with it. Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Padma Srivastava, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, on how PCOS can affect the emotional well-being of teenage girls.

She explained that 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) in areas such as the face or chest, and darkening of the skin, especially on the neck, can significantly affect their self-esteem and self-worth.

“Sometimes, these girls may feel ashamed of their physical appearance, which in turn leads to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Over time, this can lead to feelings of agitation, frustration, irritation, sadness, stress, guilt, self-doubt and restlessness. This can worsen their symptoms and lead to isolation, loneliness and even self-destructive thoughts,” said Dr Padma.

Exacerbated by social media, where they are constantly compared to celebrities and influencers, they may seek quick fixes such as cosmetic procedures or trendy treatments to address acne or hair loss. However, these quick fixes can often lead to unwanted side effects.

Tips for effectively managing PCOS and body image issues in teen girls

Managing PCOS requires a multifaceted approach that may take a few weeks or even months to show the desired results. Make sure to talk to your friends, family, and loved ones and let them know about your emotional struggle. Expressing your emotions can help you ease your mental burden and at the same time give you a lot of relief. You can try keeping a journal of your thoughts as some people may hesitate to discuss their insecurities or shortcomings with others. You should not feel ashamed or shy and schedule a medical checkup to manage your condition effectively.

Your doctor may closely examine the symptoms experienced and recommend certain tests, medications and lifestyle Changes for optimal results: Follow lifestyle modifications such as eating a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients, applying stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and mental load, and getting a deep night’s sleep of seven to eight hours a day.