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News18
2 days ago
- Health
- News18
Hormonal Imbalance: Why So Many Indian Women Are Feeling ‘Off'
Last Updated: Hormonal imbalances are no longer rare or limited to a certain age group, they are a growing concern for Indian women across generations and regions. More and more Indian women today are experiencing signs that something's just not right—irregular periods, unexpected weight gain, constant tiredness, mood swings, and more. These symptoms often point to hormonal imbalances, a growing yet under-discussed health issue. Despite how common these problems are, awareness is still lacking, especially in rural areas, and many women go undiagnosed for years. What Is Hormonal Imbalance? Hormones are your body's messengers. Produced by glands like the thyroid, ovaries, and adrenal glands, they help control everything from mood and metabolism to sleep and reproduction. A hormonal imbalance occurs when these messengers are produced in too little or too much quantity, or when their signals get disrupted. The result? A ripple effect that can throw off your body's normal functions. Some of the most common hormone-related conditions among Indian women include PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), thyroid disorders, and menopausal transitions. Each comes with its own set of challenges and affects women differently based on age, genetics, and lifestyle. How Common Are Hormonal Imbalances in India? From PCOS in young adults to thyroid issues and menopause-related struggles, data reveals that these aren't isolated health problems; they are affecting millions across age groups and geographies. Here's a closer look at the key conditions and what the numbers say. PCOS tops the list when it comes to hormonal disorders among Indian women aged 15–45. A 2023 study in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism estimates that 9–22% of women in this age group are affected, with urban areas seeing rates as high as 26%. The condition is marked by excess androgens (male hormones), irregular periods, and ovarian cysts. It can lead to infertility, acne, and hirsutism (excessive facial/body hair). The same study also highlights that 30–40% of women with PCOS in India have insulin resistance, making them more vulnerable to type 2 diabetes and heart issues. Worth noting: While genetics are involved, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and exposure to environmental triggers like pollution may be increasing the risk. However, more India-specific research is still needed. Thyroid Disorders Thyroid issues, especially hypothyroidism (when the thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormones to meet your body's needs), are another widespread concern. According to a 2021 study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, about 10–15% of Indian women face thyroid dysfunction, with hypothyroidism being more common than an overactive thyroid. Fatigue, depression, and unexplained weight gain are often brushed off as lifestyle problems but can signal deeper hormonal issues. The study also notes higher prevalence in coastal and iodine-deficient regions like parts of North India. Important detail: Autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto's are on the rise too, possibly due to urban stress and lifestyle shifts. Menopause And Perimenopause Menopause is a natural hormonal shift that happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but the symptoms often start earlier, during perimenopause. A 2022 study in the Journal of Mid-Life Health found that 60–70% of Indian women experience noticeable symptoms like hot flashes, disturbed sleep, and mood changes during this transition. Unfortunately, due to cultural silence around menopause, many suffer without proper help, especially in rural areas where awareness and access to treatment are limited. Key issue: Hormone therapy (HRT), which can ease severe symptoms, is rarely used in India due to its cost and stigma. Other Hormonal Disorders Less frequent, but still impactful, are conditions like Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease. A 2020 review in the Indian Journal of Medical Research estimates that about 1–2% of Indian women are affected by such adrenal disorders, which can cause major fatigue, blood pressure changes, and abnormal weight gain or loss. Hormonal issues are rising fast, and it's not just genetics. Urban stress, poor diets, lifestyle shifts, and environmental factors are throwing things off balance. Lifestyle And Urbanisation Urban life has brought convenience but also complications. A 2023 study in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia found that obesity is rising rapidly among urban Indian women, with 25–30% now classified as overweight or obese. Sedentary routines, processed foods, and chronic stress are major triggers, especially for PCOS and thyroid issues. Genetic And Environmental Factors Genetics does play a big role. A 2021 article in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism pointed out that South Asian women, including Indians, are more genetically prone to insulin resistance and PCOS. On the environmental front, exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in everyday items—like plastic containers and pesticides—may also be influencing hormone health. However, more data is needed in the Indian context. Dietary Shifts We're slowly shifting from traditional Indian meals full of fibre, legumes, and home-cooked veggies to fast foods and sugary snacks. A 2022 study in Nutrition and Diabetes links poor diets and micronutrient deficiencies—like lack of iodine or magnesium—to rising rates of PCOS and thyroid issues. Stress and Mental Health The non-stop pace of urban life is taking its toll. Chronic stress triggers high cortisol levels, which can mess with insulin, thyroid, and reproductive hormones. According to a 2020 survey by the Indian Psychiatric Society, stress and anxiety levels in women—especially during and after the pandemic—are sharply rising, often making hormonal symptoms worse. Limited Healthcare Access In rural India, reaching the right doctor or even getting basic blood tests done is still a challenge. The National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–2021) shows that while 80% of urban women have regular access to healthcare, only 60% in rural areas do. This gap means many cases go undiagnosed and untreated. Symptoms and Impact Hormonal imbalance symptoms are wide-ranging and often overlap with other conditions, making them hard to pinpoint. But some common ones include: These symptoms don't just affect the body—they impact mental health, work, relationships, and quality of life. A 2023 study in Human Reproduction found that 40% of Indian women with PCOS also struggle with anxiety or depression, especially due to fertility-related stress. Diagnosis And Treatment Getting the right diagnosis early can make a huge difference. But many women delay medical help, often due to stigma or assuming their symptoms are 'normal." Standard diagnostic tools include: Blood tests (to check hormone levels, insulin, thyroid function) Ultrasounds (especially for PCOS) Full medical history reviews Treatment depends on the condition, but often includes: PCOS: A mix of lifestyle changes (diet, exercise), medications like metformin, and hormonal pills for period regulation Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid hormone replacements (levothyroxine) or drugs to suppress an overactive thyroid Menopause: In severe cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), though often replaced with lifestyle changes like yoga or supplements in India A 2022 review in the Journal of Postgraduate Medicine highlights how powerful simple lifestyle changes—healthy eating, staying active, and managing stress—can be in improving symptoms across the board. Challenges and the Way Forward There's still a lot of stigma around talking about periods, fertility, or menopause. Many symptoms are brushed off as 'just part of being a woman." But this mindset delays diagnosis and treatment. To move forward, experts suggest: Routine screenings: Especially for women with a family history of thyroid or PCOS Lifestyle focus: Encouraging regular activity and traditional balanced diets top videos View all More awareness: Campaigns and open conversations to normalise hormonal health issues Public health programs, like those led by the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, are trying to close the gap, but there's still a long way to go. About the Author Surbhi Pathak Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : hormonal imbalance view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 13, 2025, 09:44 IST News lifestyle Hormonal Imbalance: Why So Many Indian Women Are Feeling 'Off' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
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Business Standard
11-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Tired, hungry and gaining weight? Insulin resistance could be to blame
Have you been feeling more tired lately, gaining weight around the belly despite eating right, or struggling with constant sugar cravings? It might not just be your hectic schedule—it could be insulin resistance, a silent metabolic red flag that's increasingly making its way into Indian households. What is insulin resistance and why is it dangerous? Insulin resistance occurs when cells in your muscles, fat and liver do not respond properly to insulin—a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar. Insulin enables glucose to move from your bloodstream into your cells, where it is used for energy. When this process is disrupted, your cells stop responding efficiently to insulin. Over time, this leads to pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and metabolic syndrome. In simple terms, your body works overtime to keep blood sugar in check, and this chronic strain destabilises glucose levels, leading to serious health risks. 'Your brain cells may not receive enough glucose to function normally if blood glucose levels fall dangerously low (severe hypoglycaemia). This is a serious condition and calls for immediate medical attention,' said Dr Himika Chawla, senior consultant, endocrinology and diabetology, PSRI Hospital. Conversely, if the pancreas produces too little insulin, glucose cannot enter your cells. 'Your blood glucose level rises as glucose accumulates until it becomes too high. This is known as hyperglycaemia. You might develop type 2 diabetes if your blood glucose levels consistently remain high,' added Dr Chawla. Why more Indian families are at risk today According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the prevalence of insulin resistance among Indian adolescents is rising. Approximately 20–25% of Indian youth aged 10–19 years are affected. With India often labelled the diabetes capital of the world, insulin resistance is a critical precursor. The main drivers of this increase include: Sedentary lifestyles: Desk jobs, long hours and minimal physical activity High-carb, high-sugar diets: Roti, rice and sweets spike insulin levels Stress and poor sleep: Long commutes, excessive screen time and irregular sleep Genetic predisposition: South Asians tend to accumulate visceral fat even at normal weight. Historical food scarcity and famine may also play a role 'Compounding the issue is a cultural shift away from traditional, balanced diets towards refined grains and sugary foods, along with increased screen time and decreased physical activity,' said Dr Jaspreet Singh, endocrinology, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals. Early signs of insulin resistance you should never ignore Insulin resistance often shows up subtly. Watch out for: Constant fatigue Increased hunger, especially for carbohydrates Weight gain around the belly Difficulty losing weight Unintended weight loss Darkened skin around the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans) Skin tags Brain fog, trouble focusing or blurry vision High blood pressure or cholesterol Excessive thirst and frequent urination Decreased testosterone, affecting reproductive health and fertility 'Crucially, insulin resistance is not a standalone condition but a driver of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of issues including high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL (good) cholesterol and excess abdominal fat. Together, these greatly elevate the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes,' added Dr Singh. 'Gestational diabetes—that is, diabetes during pregnancy—increases the risk of developing insulin resistance. Certain medications, especially glucocorticoids or steroids taken over a long period, can also increase the risk. Medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, sleep apnoea, acromegaly or Cushing's syndrome are all linked to high insulin resistance. Emerging evidence also suggests that low levels of vitamin D may contribute,' said Dr Pearlsy Grace Rajan, senior consultant, internal medicine, Rela Hospital, Chennai. Lifestyle changes that can reverse insulin resistance The good news is that insulin resistance can often be reversed through lifestyle changes and medical support, especially when caught early. Here is what helps: Move more, sit less: Aim for 30–45 minutes of exercise daily. Even a walk after meals improves insulin sensitivity and helps with sugar cravings 'We need to emphasise resistance or strength training at least thrice a week to build muscle mass, which improves insulin sensitivity,' said Dr Ranjan. Follow a smart plate strategy: 'Be mindful of your carbohydrate intake, and also the time of day you consume them,' added Dr Ranjan. Choose whole grains over white rice or maida, include protein in every meal (dal, eggs, paneer, lean meats), and add fibre through fruits and vegetables. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks: Packaged snacks, juices and sodas can worsen insulin resistance Prioritise sleep: 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep helps regulate blood sugar and appetite hormones Manage stress levels: Yoga, deep breathing, meditation and time away from screens help. Activities like painting or playing music also support stress reduction Tests to diagnose insulin resistance in India Insulin resistance is usually diagnosed through the HOMA-IR (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance) test, which measures fasting insulin and glucose levels. The HbA1c test, which shows average blood sugar over 2–3 months, is also useful. These tests are available at most diagnostic labs and typically cost between ₹920 and ₹1,300. How Indian families can tackle it together Insulin resistance is not just a personal health concern—it affects entire families. Shared habits like daily walks, eating home-cooked meals and scheduling check-ups can help Indian households prevent this growing threat. Insulin resistance may be silent, but its consequences are loud. The earlier you act, the better your chances of preventing diabetes and living a full, energetic life. Prevention isn't just better than cure—it's simpler, cheaper and smarter too.
News18
22-05-2025
- Health
- News18
What Your Period Blood Colour Reveals About Your Health
Last Updated: Understanding the color of your period gives you the ability to recognize warning signs early and take charge of your own health Your menstrual cycle is not just a recurring biological event—it's a monthly health report. Menstrual blood color is a lesser-known but no less significant indicator of what's going on inside the body, even though many people concentrate on flow intensity, cramps, or timing. Differences in period blood color can provide insight into hormonal balance, the possibility of infection, the presence of nutritional deficiencies, or reproductive health, much like differences in skin color or nail quality can provide insight into internal health. In India, where menstrual health is shrouded in silence in many cultures, being able to understand what's considered normal and what may not be can be a powerful first step towards early intervention and better overall health. Dr. J Ravichandran, Amrutanjan Healthcare helps us decode the color palette of a period. Bright red blood is often seen in the early days of the menstrual cycle, typically days one to two, when bleeding is heaviest. This shade denotes fresh blood, indicating rapid and effective shedding of the uterine lining. This indicates normal hormone activity and good uterine health. However, conditions like uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, or hormonal imbalances may be indicated if the flow is extremely heavy, requiring changing pads every hour or accompanied by large clots. 18–24% of Indian women in their reproductive years' experience heavy menstrual bleeding, which is a common cause of gynaecological consultations, as per recent reports by Journal of Mid-Life Health, At some point in your period, the blood may darken to a dark red or maroon color. This is simply blood that has had longer to oxidize slightly, as it has taken longer to leave the uterus. This darker color most commonly appears in the final days of the cycle or after waking. In most cases, dark red blood generally appears to be completely normal, but if it is accompanied by pelvic pain, an unpleasant odor, or lasts longer than usual, it could be associated with retained tissue which is a particular risk after childbirth or a miscarriage. In these circumstances, it is important to see a gynaecologist. Brown or rusty blood is commonly older oxidized blood that did not leave during the last cycle. It is often noticed at the beginning or end of the period, and sometimes just as spotting between cycles. Generally speaking, this is usually not a problem. Spotting particularly as brown spots can indicate a thyroid issue, hormonal contraceptive side effect, or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), especially if you have irregular periods or pain in your abdomen. In fact, nearly 20% of Indian women of reproductive age have PCOS according to the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism. It is important to be aware of these symptoms. Pink Blood: May Indicate Low Estrogen or Nutritional Deficiency Pinkish blood is frequently the result of blood diluted with cervical fluid, usually seen during lighter periods or spotting. Consistently pink periods may indicate low estrogen levels, which can be caused by eating disorders, low body weight, or excessive exercise, though they may be normal for some people. In India, pink menstrual blood can also denote low haemoglobin levels, as anaemia is affecting more than half of the women between the ages of 15-49. It is important to pay attention to any other symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, or breathlessness, and to request a blood test if the pink spotting persists. Grey or Off-White Clots: Requires Immediate Attention The appearance of greyish blood or tissue during menstruation can be a medical red flag. This coloring can point to a bacterial infection like bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is usually accompanied by an unpleasant odor, itching, or abnormal discharge. Grey tissue may also indicate retained products of conception in postpartum women which necessitate clinical care. According to the World Health Organization, untreated reproductive tract infections among women in developing countries represent one of the leading causes of infertility and chronic pelvic pain. You should go see a gynaecologist as soon as possible if you experience any grey discharge. Seeing black period blood can be alarming, but usually, it is simply older blood that has stayed in the uterus longer than normal due to cervical stenosis, accumulation of endometrial tissue, or even a lighter flow. If the black blood is accompanied by severe cramping, cycles are irregular or there is a foul odour, it could mean a serious problem like endometriosis, fibroids or an infection. Noticing these behaviours can be the first step towards early diagnosis. In India, these conditions are often under-diagnosed because of stigma and low awareness about women's health issues. Let Your Body Speak top videos View all Menstrual blood comes in a spectrum of colors each one a potential signal. Even though the majority of variations are benign and a natural part of your body's rhythm, you shouldn't disregard any persistent changes or concerning symptoms. In India, menstrual health education is still a major obstacle, particularly in rural and low-income areas. Understanding the color of your period gives you the ability to recognize warning signs early and take charge of your own health. Whether you are a mother managing cycles after giving birth, a working woman or a student it's important to know what's normal so that you can safeguard your fertility, comfort and long-term menstrual health. First Published: May 22, 2025, 16:05 IST
