PCOS living day to day in teenagers

Overview

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a common hormone condition that affects how a teenage girl's ovaries work. It can cause irregular periods, extra hair growth, acne, and weight gain.

Yes, PCOS is one of the most common hormone conditions in teenage girls. It affects about 1 in 10 girls and women of childbearing age.

PCOS most often starts during the teenage years, around the time of the first period. It can affect anyone who has ovaries, regardless of weight or background.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Irregular periods – sometimes more than 35 days apart, or fewer than 8 periods per year
• Excess hair on the face, chest, back, or stomach (hirsutism)
• Severe acne, especially on the face, chest, and upper back
• Weight gain or trouble losing weight
• Oily skin and dandruff
• Mood changes, including anxiety or low mood

Symptoms in children

• Early signs of PCOS can start before the first period, such as early pubic hair or acne. But most symptoms appear after periods begin.

Symptoms in older adults

• PCOS continues after the teenage years. In adulthood, it can affect fertility (ability to get pregnant), and it raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. But with good management, these risks can be reduced.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is linked to the body making too much of a hormone called insulin, which can cause the ovaries to produce extra male hormones (androgens).
• Genes play a role – PCOS often runs in families.
• Inflammation in the body may also contribute.

Risk factors

• Having a mother, sister, or aunt with PCOS
• Being overweight or obese – this can make insulin resistance worse
• Having insulin resistance – the body's cells do not respond well to insulin

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden severe pain in your lower belly or heavy bleeding
• If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or feel very low (call a crisis line or go to emergency)

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have missed more than 3 periods in a row
• If you have excess hair growth or severe acne that bothers you
• If you are concerned about weight gain that is hard to explain
• If you have mood changes that are affecting your day-to-day life

Diagnosis

A doctor (usually a general practitioner or a specialist like a gynecologist) will ask about your symptoms, check your health history, and may do some tests. They will also rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check hormone levels, including male hormones (testosterone), and to check for insulin resistance or other conditions
• An ultrasound scan of your ovaries – this uses sound waves to create a picture and may show multiple small cysts (fluid-filled sacs)
• Sometimes a blood sugar test to check for diabetes

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what PCOS is and what the test results mean. They will talk with you about a plan to manage symptoms, which often includes healthy eating, physical activity, and sometimes medication. You can bring a parent or trusted adult to the appointment.

Treatment

There is no cure for PCOS, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing long-term health risks. Treatment is tailored to each person's needs and may include lifestyle changes and medications.

Self-care at home

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins – try to limit sugary drinks and processed foods
• Get regular physical activity – aim for at least 60 minutes of activity most days, like walking, cycling, dancing, or sports
• Try to maintain a healthy weight – even a 5-10% loss in body weight can help improve symptoms
• Practice good sleep habits – aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques, hobbies, or talking to someone you trust

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend medications to help regulate your periods, reduce excess hair, clear acne, or manage insulin resistance. These can include birth control pills (to help with periods and acne), metformin (to improve how the body uses insulin), or anti-androgen medicines. Always talk to your doctor about the best option for you and any side effects. Never take any medication without a prescription.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for teenagers with PCOS. In some cases, a procedure called ovarian drilling (small holes made in the ovary to lower hormone levels) may be considered for older adolescents who have not responded to other treatments, but this is not common.

Living with this condition

Living with PCOS as a teenager means learning to manage a few extra challenges, but it does not define who you are. With healthy habits and support from your healthcare team, you can feel your best. Be patient with your body – it may take time to find what works for you.

Lifestyle tips

• Stick to a routine – eat meals at regular times, get enough sleep, and move your body each day
• Keep a simple symptom diary – note your period dates, mood, weight, and any other changes – this can help you and your doctor see what helps
• Be kind to yourself – PCOS can affect your appearance and mood, but you are more than your symptoms. Talk to someone if you feel down.

Diet and exercise

Aim for a diet with plenty of fiber (from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains) and lean protein. Limit sugary snacks and drinks – they can worsen insulin resistance. Regular exercise, even just a brisk walk, helps your body use insulin better and can improve mood. Find activities you enjoy, whether it's team sports, yoga, dancing, or walking with friends.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

PCOS can affect how you feel about yourself and your body. It is common to feel frustrated, self-conscious, or anxious. If you are feeling very sad, hopeless, or thinking about hurting yourself, please tell a trusted adult or call a crisis line right away. You deserve help and support.

Prevention

PCOS cannot be prevented because it is largely influenced by genetics. However, healthy habits – like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight – can help reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the risk of long-term complications.

Complications

If left untreated

• Higher risk of type 2 diabetes
• Higher risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol
• Difficulty getting pregnant later in life (infertility)
• Increased risk of endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the uterus) if periods are very infrequent over many years
• Worsening of mental health – anxiety and depression are more common

Long-term outlook

With the right care and healthy habits, most teenagers with PCOS live full, healthy lives. Symptoms can be managed, and long-term risks can be greatly reduced. Many women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies and successful careers. You can take control of your health, one step at a time.

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