Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) has become increasingly prevalent among corporate women, a trend often linked to the demanding nature of their lifestyles. A study by PubMed Central indicates a prevalence ranging from 3.7 percent to 22.5% among Indian women, varying based on diagnostic criteria and population. In an in-depth conversation with Dr. Anuradha Panda, senior obstetrician and gynaecologist, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, we drew insights to shed light on PCOS, its connection to the corporate environment, and effective management strategies.

Related article: 5 Common Myths About PCOS—Debunked

What exactly is PCOS, a disease or condition?

“PCOS, or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is an endocrinopathy—a hormone-related issue," says Dr. Anuradha. It’s characterised by hormonal imbalance, which significantly impacts a woman's health. Many women with PCOS present with symptoms such as obesity, irregular periods, and infertility. It can also manifest as a metabolic syndrome, with some women experiencing high sugar levels or abnormal lipid profiles without initially realising they have PCOS. “It is a lifestyle disease.” 

Why is PCOS seemingly more common among corporate women?

Corporate women often engage in extensive multitasking, leading to increased stress levels.  Dr. Anuradha also mentions how stress contributes to a rise in cortisol, the "fight or flight" hormone. Elevated cortisol, in turn, can lead to increased sugar and testosterone levels, creating a cascade effect that contributes to PCOS. Beyond stress, a sedentary lifestyle, lack of time for exercise and healthy cooking, reliance on junk food, poor weight management and insufficient sleep are all contributing factors often observed in the corporate environment.

To what extent does stress contribute to the development or exacerbation of PCOS?

Dr. Anuradha highlights how high cortisol levels trigger a chain reaction: “More stress means higher androgen (male hormone) levels, which can lead to issues like acne and hirsutism (excess body hair), and also contribute to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance, in turn, further elevates LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and testosterone, disrupting ovulation, promoting weight gain (often a male-type obesity), and even male-pattern baldness, all of which are part of PCOS”.

What are the early signs of PCOS that corporate women should be aware of?

Early signs of PCOS vary from person to person, says Dr. Panda. Common presentations include weight gain, irregular periods, significant acne, and hirsutism (excessive hair growth). Some individuals may experience these symptoms sequentially, with weight gain often being the first indicator, followed by irregular periods and then acne. Additionally, the presence of insulin resistance might be indicated by acanthosis nigricans, characterised by a dark discolouration around the neck and other body folds.

How crucial is sleep in managing PCOS, and what are the implications of a poor sleep cycle?

Sleep plays a vital role. Abnormal sleep patterns, such as working night shifts or sleeping late into the morning, can significantly alter hormone levels. Dr. Anuradha mentions, “This is why we have seen a rise in youngsters in their 20s getting diagnosed with PCOS”.

Related article: PCOS Solutions For Hair Loss, Weight Loss and Poor Sleep

What is the primary approach to managing PCOS?

The most important first step in managing PCOS is lifestyle change. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, meditation, and relaxation techniques. For many women, especially younger ones, Dr. Anuradha emphasises that lifestyle modifications should take priority over medication. Weight reduction, specifically a 10 per cent reduction in body weight, can lead to significant improvements in menstrual regularity, lipid profiles, sugar levels, and hormone balance.

Do mindfulness and relaxation techniques really help with PCOS?

Yes, very much so, agrees Dr. Panda. “Meditation and relaxation techniques directly influence hormones and can help manage stress”, which is a significant contributor to PCOS. These practices can also help combat depression, which is common among individuals stressed by early symptoms like hair loss and acne.

Should hormonal pills be considered as a lifelong solution for PCOS?

No, hormonal pills are not meant for lifelong use. They are typically prescribed for specific reasons, such as stopping heavy bleeding caused by an abnormally thick uterine lining due to irregular periods. They can also be used for 4-6 months to regulate cycles, reduce acne, and manage depression in some cases. However, the focus should always be on lifestyle management. Dr. Anuradha mentions, “While oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) can serve a dual role in regulating periods and providing birth control, they should not be blindly prescribed”. They come with potential risks like blood clotting, especially in obese individuals, smokers, or those with diabetes. Any medication should be taken under strict medical supervision.

What are some common myths about PCOS?

Every time people come and ask, "Is there a cure, is it curable?" and Dr. Anuradha clarifies that, like other lifestyle diseases, it can only be controlled and kept in check. Another common misconception is that a woman needs treatment simply because a scan shows polycystic ovaries, even if she has regular periods and no other symptoms. Dr. Anuradha stresses that "we shouldn't be treating the scan". However, seeing polycystic ovaries on a scan should encourage women to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent the progression of the disease. 

Dr. Anuradha also mentions, “Some women with PCOS mistakenly believe they don't need contraception because they ovulate erratically.” This is a dangerous myth, as they can still get pregnant and there have been cases of unaware pregnancy and abortions. 

What supportive environment should offices provide for corporate women to help manage PCOS?

Dr Anuradha stresses the importance of a healthy diet and timely meals here. She says, “Offices should have cafeterias that offer specific nutrient-rich diets to women with PCOS & not just basic dal-rice”. 

Offices should prioritise giving employees time to relax and offer flexible work hours. Allowing work-from-home options for a few days can help women use commuting time for meditation or exercise. For those on night shifts, adjustments should be made if they have metabolic components of PCOS.

Related article: The Perfect PCOS Breakfast: Why Your Diet Matters

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Regular health checks are essential for everyone, but they are particularly important for individuals who are at risk of or already have polycystic ovary syndrome. Taking regular health checks can help at an early stage when diagnosing and managing PCOS-related issues is easier to manage and treat. With the UR.Life HRA, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.