As per the data, the overall prevalence of PCOS came at 54 per cent while the second leading menstrual disorder was pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) affecting 17 per cent of the female population

According to a new survey over 60 per cent of women in the age group of 25 to 34 have PCOS in India. The survey conducted by Gynoveda saw responses from over 3 lakh women across the country in the age bracket of 18 to 45 years, who were categorised into 3 groups based on prevalence, severity and bodily changes. 

The first group included women with menstrual disorders constituted 70 per cent of the total respondents. The second group noted women with vaginal disorders (26 per cent) who had challenges concerning their vaginal well-being, which encompassed discomfort, infections, or irregularities affecting their overall vaginal health and quality of life. The third group included a total of 4 per cent of the respondents who faced no disorders.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not bound by age — it's a disorder that affects women across their journey. What came out very glaringly was that 51 per cent of women in the less than 24 years age group have PCOS. However, what makes this more worrisome is the fact that PCOS affects women’s fertility to a great extent. As per detailed research by the National Institute of Health (Government of India), the prevalence of infertility in women with PCOS varies between 70 per cent to 80 per cent.

As per the data, the overall prevalence of PCOS came at 54 per cent while the second leading menstrual disorder was pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) affecting 17 per cent of the female population. Furthermore, 9 per cent suffered from candidiasis, 5 per cent from Fibroid and 1 per cent from endometrial hyperplasia. 

Rachana Gupta, Co-founder at Gynoveda, who led the research opines, “The strategically designed period test complemented by the insights from doctors, customers, and respondents ensures accuracy and efficacy. By utilising the insights from this test and combining with Ayurvedic formulations and doctor support, Gynoveda has remarkably impacted over 200,000 lives in just 3 years since its inception and aims to continue the exceptional community work.”

Irregularity and Pain Severity During Periods

When surveyed regarding pain during the menstrual cycle, over 83 per cent of Indian women have periods that are painful, which compels them to consume painkillers every month. 58 per cent complained about mild and bearable pain, 25 per cent complained about severe pain and only 17 per cent reported no pain during the course of their periods. 

Irregular periods with scanty flow were experienced by 76 per cent of women. Nearly half of women resort to using fewer than 5 pads throughout their entire period cycle; whereas a healthy menstrual flow requires the use of a minimum of 10 to 12 pads per cycle. 

Major Body Changes Faced by Women with PCOS

While dealing with PCOS, women also go through major body issues. Excessive weight gain was observed in 60 per cent of women, closely followed by facial hair growth (Hirsutism) noted to be in 59 per cent of women. Skin issues like Acne were observed in 55 per cent of the women whereas pigmentation and other hormonal skin issues were seen in 51 per cent of respondents. Due to certain defined health and beauty standards in society, these issues become a cause of mental and emotional distress in them.