Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that is getting quite a lot of attention recently. Not only is there is more awareness of this Syndrome but we are also seeing an increase in its incidence as many teenagers are coming forward with the symptoms suggestive of this syndrome. Lifestyle changes including eating food with a higher glycemic index, having excessive carbohydrates, eating fast food and junk food may be contributing to the increased incidence of PCOS. Also the ubiquitous presence of plastics in our lives has been shown to contribute to this Syndrome. Plastics contain substances like Bisphenol and Phthalates which are called Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. These have a direct impact on the ovarian microenvironment, making the follicles that are sacs containing eggs secrete more of male hormones, which in turn predispose to the condition of PCOS. Since these  Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals cause an increase of predominantly male hormones the girl or woman tends to show signs of excessive androgenisation.

The diagnosis of PCOS is made in the presence of irregular or absent periods, acne and other signs of hyperandrogenism such as hair growth over the face, chin, the breast area, navel and abdomen. Women suffering from PCOS may also have a high BMI although there is a condition called lean PCOS where the woman may be slim but have other signs and symptoms of PCOS. 

It is a common observation that PCOS is a multi-organ endocrine disorder. Therefore it is not unusual to find other endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism, obesity and diabetes associated with PCOS. There is a strong link between ovarian and thyroid function. 

It is essential for teenagers and their parents to be alert if they notice these changes, as PCOS can be kept under control to a large extent by healthy lifestyle changes and habits such as eating healthy food with a low glycemic index, avoiding snacking, fast food and junk food. Adequate and timely sleep is also important. Daily exercise for young girls and women is very important in order to avoid weight gain. A healthy lifestyle can also preclude to developing thyroid problems. It is wise to cut down time spent in front of the computer and encourage teenagers and young girls to participate in group activities like swimming, cycling and aerobics. These also promote a feeling of well being and prevent isolation and a sense of desolation and depression which can accompany women with PCOS.

A general examination by a gynecologist, an adolescent endocrinologist, a reproductive endocrinologist, an IVF specialist or a general physician is helpful.  Blood tests for thyroid function are inexpensive and easily accessible. These include testing for TSH, T3, T4, Free T3 and Free T4 and sometimes checking for antithyroid antibodies.

There are many support groups that facilitate the understanding of this disorder which if uncontrolled, can lead to many conditions like morbid obesity, hypertension and card disease in the future.