PCOS

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<h1>What is PCOS ? </h1>
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS  is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women in their reproductive years, prevalent worldwide. Data suggests upto 1 in 5 women experiences PCOS. This may look like irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, hair fall, mental health concerns &amp; fatigue. The specific reason for PCOS is not clear. PCOS doesn’t happen due to a single cause. It’s a <ins>multifactorial condition</ins>, including:
1. Genetics - 20 - 40% women have first degree relatives with PCOS.
2. Insulin resistance - When cells can't utilise the hormone insulin appropriately, the body's need for insulin rises. The pancreas makes more insulin to counterbalance the perceived lack of this hormone, which triggers the ovaries to make more male hormones.
3. Raised androgen levels - Increase in the levels of insulin leads to heightened androgen production in the body, which is responsible for acne, hirsutism, mood changes, depression, and hair loss. This excess androgen also prevents ovulation, causing irregular periods and difficulty in conceiving children. 

What are common symptoms of PCOS?&nbsp;
PCOS can<ins> impact various functions in your body</ins> based on the hormonal irregularity you experience. The symptoms can exist in <ins>different combinations for each individual</ins>. Symptoms can include:
1. Irregular periods (Inconsistent, delayed or lengthy periods) 
2. Acne/hirsutism/hair fall  
3. Weight gain  
4. Fatigue  
5. Mental health concerns  
<h2>Experiencing some of these ? How to figure out if this is PCOS? </h2>
Gynaecologists globally use <ins>the Rotterdam criteria </ins>to diagnose PCOS, as per which women with PCOS usually have at least <ins>two of the three</ins> following conditions:
1. Irregular menstrual cycles
2. Ovaries show fluid-filled sacs or cysts on ultrasound scan
3. Signs of excess androgens ( male hormones) such as acne, hair loss , hirsutism ( growth of extra unwanted hair) on the face, chin, and other parts of the body.
A gynaecologist will look for symptoms of PCOS, based on which they may ask for tests to diagnose the condition. It’s important to rule out underactive thyroid before making a diagnosis of PCOS, as symptoms often look similar.
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What if you have PCOS? What should treatment look like?
PCOS can look different for each person and your experience managing it has to be curated  based on your symptoms, lifestyle &amp; personal goals.  
1. Lifestyle changes&nbsp;
This can help manage irregular periods, acne, hirsutism &amp; weight caused due to insulin resistance &amp; raised androgens.
a. Modify your diet to help reduce the weight gain caused by PCOS. Pro tip: Increase the fibre in your diet.
b. Reduce refined carbohydrate intake
c. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week.
d. Good sleep and stress management techniques can also go a long way in managing PCOS symptoms. 
2. Hair &amp; skin care 
a. You need to make sure that you’re using a good sunscreen and a good moisturiser. It is preferable to use gel-based moisturisers and sunscreens if you have very oily skin.
b. Also, have a cleansing routine. If needed, cleanse your skin twice and always clean it in the morning.

3.Medication  
Medication can be prescribed by a gynaecologist to regulate periods, limit excess hair growth and regulate hormones. Starting medication is a choice, and it is important to clarify all your concerns with a doctor before taking this option. While PCOS management can seem complicated, consulting an experienced gynaecologist can help simplify your lifestyle and treatment plan.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS  is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women in their reproductive years, prevalent worldwide. Data suggests upto 1 in 5 women experiences PCOS. This may look like irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, hair fall, mental health concerns & fatigue. 

Suspecting PCOS? Here’s everything you need to know!

If you're the parent of a child between 9-14 years of age, now is the time to act. The HPV vaccine protects your child against numerous forms of HPV-related cancers. The <a href="https://www.fogsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/FOGSI-GCPR-March-2018-final.pdf" target="_blank"><ins>Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI)</ins></a> recommends HPV vaccination between the ages of 9-45 years, if not already immunised.
<h2 style="text-align:justify;">1. The Sooner, the better</h2>
If the <a href="https://proactiveforher.com/health/pages/hpv/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=blogs" target="_blank"><ins>HPV vaccine</ins></a> is administered during the pre-teen years - it is proven to be more effective. This is because HPV infections can occur only during sexual activity - meaning that administering the vaccine before a child is sexually active is the best way to ensure maximum efficiency.
<h2 style="text-align:justify;">2. But what if children use this as an excuse to start having sex?</h2>
Many parents are concerned about discussing HPV and the HPV vaccine with their children. The typical comment is that a child that age should not be sexually active and should remain inactive for the next few years (or longer). 
Firstly, the vaccine is recommended after the age of 9 because a child around this age is usually not yet sexually active. This will ensure maximum protection against HPV infections. Lastly, it has been clinically proven that taking the HPV vaccine will not encourage teenagers to have sex earlier or participate in unprotected sex. So, if you're concerned that this immunisation may give your child the sense that having sex or unprotected sex early is encouraged, don't be. 
<h2 style="text-align:justify;">3. Should your male child get the HPV vaccine?</h2>
There are several reasons why male children should get the HPV vaccine. Both men and women can carry HPV strains and if transmitted, it can cause genital warts in both females and males and/or penis and anus malignancies. Even if a male child may never show signs or symptoms of an HPV infection, he can act as a carrier and pass it on to anyone he has sexual contact with putting them at a higher risk of contracting cancers such as <a href="https://www.proactiveforher.com/blogs/hpv/cervical-cancer-prevention-at-your-fingertips/" target="_self"><ins>cervical cancer</ins></a> . 
Read more: <a href="https://proactiveforher.com/blogs/hpv/how-vaccine-can-help-beat-hpv-symptoms/" target="_blank"><ins>Top 6 HPV Vaccination Myths - Debunked </ins></a>&nbsp;

<img src="https://pfh-images-production.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/files/images/pre-teen-hpv-vaccination__366f839a-d913-489b-a0e0-1a9e0200e1d5.jpeg" alt="" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h2 style="text-align:justify;">4. Will your child experience any side effects?</h2>
The HPV vaccine is completely safe. Like any other vaccine - some people may experience mild to moderate symptoms. These often need no medical attention. Some of these symptoms include fever, headache, discomfort, dizziness and redness in the arm. What you can do to help your child while getting the HPV vaccination is to make them sit or lie down while getting the shot and stay in that position for around 15 minutes following it. This can prevent children from feeling nauseous and dizzy. 
<h2 style="text-align:justify;">5. How can you discuss the HPV vaccine with your child?</h2>
Children may not be comfortable about getting vaccines at first. However, you can ensure they are okay to get the dose by making them aware of the vaccine's advantages and how the virus spreads. If you don't feel ready to discuss sex with your child, explain that the vaccine can protect them from various life-threatening cancers.
Sex education also plays an integral part in making children aware of the need for vaccination, enabling them to make more informed decisions regarding their sex life. HPV infections in teens could be as threatening as in adults and if infected at this age males and females can see an onset of HPV symptoms much later in life (if not treated in time), and vaccinating your pre-teen should be top of your priority list. You can also consult your paediatrician/andrologist to help you and your child through this process. It’s common for parents to feel anxious when it comes to their child’s health and wellbeing and that’s okay. Equip yourself with the right information while making any health choices for your child.
Read More: <a href="https://www.proactiveforher.com/blogs/hpv/cervical-cancer-prevention-at-your-fingertips/" target="_self"><ins>Cervical cancer: Prevention at your fingertips</ins></a> 
Disclaimer: This information is educational and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult your doctor before making any dietary changes or adding supplements. 
<a href="https://proactiveforher.com?utm_source=website&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=blogs" target="_blank"><ins>Proactive For Her</ins></a> is a digital clinic for women, offering accessible, personalised, and confidential healthcare solutions. We offer out-patient care, diagnostic services and programs for various health concerns of Indian women, across their lifetime - from puberty to pregnancy to menopause. 


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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) virus comes in over a hundred various strains. Distinct forms of HPV infection have different effects on the body. Some forms of HPV, for example, can cause cancer of the mouth, tonsils, anus, cervix, vulva, and penis, while others can produce genital warts. HPV for teens is as concerning as it is for adults. 

Here's Why Your Pre-teen Needs Their HPV Vaccination 

According to health professionals, HPV is not bound by the sex of a person - meaning that you can contract HPV regardless of your sexual identity. When deciding who gets the vaccine, gender is a blunt instrument, and HPV vaccination is for all. While it is true that, on average, men are less likely to contract the virus than women, specific subgroups such as men who have sex with men may be at greater risk. 
Almost every unvaccinated sexually active person will contract HPV at some point in their lives, and the majority of HPV infections will clear up on their own. Infections that do not go away, on the other hand, can lead to cancers. 
<h1 style="text-align:justify;">Should you and your partner get vaccinated? </h1>
The answer is an 'obvious’ yes!. If you and your partner have not been sexually active in the past - there is no time better than this. HPV vaccination is most effective before engaging in any sexual activity. <ins>FOGSI (The Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India)</ins> recommends getting vaccinated between the age of 9-45 years, if not already immunised.
If you are already sexually active - it is still a good idea to get vaccinated. Since most people are unaware that they have HPV as HPV symptoms can present themselves years after being infected, they are often unaware of the fact that they can be transmitting the virus. With HPV being so common, vaccination is the best method to lower your infection chances. The vaccine is still effective if you are sexually active and can protect you and your partners from developing certain types of invasive cancers such as cervical and anal cancer. Additionally, it also helps prevent HPV transmission from one person to another during any sexual activity. 

<img src="https://pfh-images-production.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/files/images/why-partner-get-vaccinated__463b2c31-47b9-46f1-91a0-6aede79cb099.jpeg" alt="" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h1 style="text-align:justify;">Building healthy conversations </h1>
Many couples hesitate to bring up HPV vaccination due to the lack of awareness and representation around the topic. While information, or rather the lack of it, is one reason - another is the uncertainty around how one's partner(s) may react. “The key is to create a safe space where you can openly discuss your sexual, mental and physical well-being", says <a href="https://proactiveforher.com/physician-profile/shaheen-khan" target="_self"><ins>Shaheen Khan</ins></a>, a clinical psychologist at Proactive For Her. 
In contrast, this narrative has seen a substantial positive change in the recent past, with more individuals taking charge of their health and actively investing in preventive healthcare. If you are already vaccinated, empower those around you with the information they need or the right tools to find that information.  
Read More: <a href="https://proactiveforher.com/health/blogs/hpv/an-insight-into-hpv-symptoms/" target="_self"><ins>An Insight into HPV</ins></a>&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This information is educational and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professionals before undertaking any changes to your health and wellness practices.
<a href="https://proactiveforher.com?utm_source=website&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=blogs" target="_blank"><ins>Proactive For Her</ins></a> is a digital clinic for women, offering accessible, personalised, and confidential healthcare solutions. We provide products and services for out-patient health concerns of Indian women across their lifetime - from puberty to pregnancy to menopause.

HPV is a virus that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. HPV can enter the genitals, mouth, or throat during sexual intercourse and induce infection. You and your partner getting vaccinated is an essential but often overlooked requirement. 

HPV: Why you and your partner need to get vaccinated 

Is it a good idea to get vaccinated so late? 
Yes! The HPV vaccine effectively prevents infection of cervical malignancies and genital warts in both women and men. Although HPV vaccination is most effective when taken during childhood or adolescence, it can also benefit adults. It's never too late to protect yourself and your partner(s) from contracting HPV infections that may lead to cancers. The <a href="https://www.fogsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/FOGSI-GCPR-March-2018-final.pdf" target="_blank"><ins>Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI)</ins></a> recommends getting vaccinated between the age of 9-45 years, if not already immunised. 
<h1 style="text-align:justify;">What are the things I should know? </h1>
While the HPV vaccination process is similar to any other vaccination, talking to your health practitioner will help you be better prepared. Talk about your overall health and well-being along with your areas of concern to a gynaecologist and understand what to expect and how to go about it! This usually includes the vaccine efficiency, your sexual history and any allergies you may have previously had. It is important to know that males and females can experience HPV symptoms years later after being infected, therefore regular testing is important.
<h1 style="text-align:justify;">What are the common side-effects that I can expect? </h1>
The HPV vaccine has proved safe in clinical trials and for real-world use. Most people experience little to no side effects after taking the vaccination. Side-effects may include nausea and body pain (usually the arm where you got the vaccination). These symptoms typically fade fast, even without treatment.

<img src="https://pfh-images-production.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/files/images/vaccinated-after-26__ffdf3756-95db-470f-acc4-7db6f8d4434b.jpeg" alt="" style="height: auto;width: auto"/>

<h1>Do I really need to take all the doses? </h1>
It is vital to complete all three doses of your HPV vaccine, ensuring maximum protection against HPV. If you are someone who started the HPV vaccine series as a child but never completed it, you should see your doctor for your final shots. You also won't have to worry about the timing—while it's great to acquire the shots at the proper intervals, you won't have to start the procedure over. Even if you received an older version of the HPV vaccine as a child, getting the current vaccine at a later age is safe. 
<h2>Who should avoid taking the HPV vaccine?</h2>
<ol>
<li>Women who are pregnant (only until pregnancy)</li>
<li>Anyone who has previously experienced a life-threatening adverse response to any vaccination or any of its components.</li>
<li>Anyone who has a moderate or severe sickness - should take the vaccine only after recovering. </li>
<li>Anyone who has severe allergies including yeast and latex allergies.</li>
</ol>

Read More: <a href="https://www.proactiveforher.com/blogs/hpv/cervical-cancer-prevention-at-your-fingertips/" target="_self"><ins>Cervical cancer: Prevention at your fingertips</ins></a> 
<h1 style="text-align:justify;">Bottom Line</h1>
If you already have a certain strain of HPV, the vaccine won't help you get rid of it but will help you from contracting another strain. The vaccine helps to provide long-term HPV protection. Even after receiving the vaccine, it is vital to note that women should visit their gynaecologist for regular Pap Tests to check for cervical cancer. <a href="https://proactiveforher.com/health/pages/hpv/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=blogs" target="_blank"><ins>Click here</ins></a> to know more about our HPV vaccine services. 
Disclaimer: This information is educational and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professionals before undertaking any changes to your health and wellness practices.
<a href="https://proactiveforher.com?utm_source=website&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=blogs" target="_blank"><ins>Proactive For Her</ins></a> is a digital clinic for women,offering accessible, personalised, and confidential healthcare solutions. We provide products and services for out-patient health concerns of Indian women across their lifetime - from puberty to pregnancy to menopause.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has become essential for basic preventive healthcare in pre-teens, teenagers, and young adults. It helps prevent multiple invasive cancers such as cervical and anal cancer. 

But what if you missed your HPV vaccination during your pre-teen years? Read on to know the ifs and whats of getting vaccinated after the age of 26. 


HPV: A Guide to Getting Vaccinated After 26

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Not sure if you have PCOS? Or you have PCOS symptoms but are struggling to manage them? Your worries are our responsibilities. 

This hormonal disorder affects 1 in every 5 women, and can be managed with expert guidance and support.

<ul>
<li>Access to our health coach to help you track symptoms and goals</li>
<li>Access to our expert curated PCOS masterclass and workshops</li>
<li>Answer to all your PCOS queries from our team of PCOS experts </li>
<li>Meet other like minded cysters who are on a similar journey as you</li>
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Take a self-assessment quiz to get doctor recommendations to address your symptoms in a holistic manner.

My session with Dr Ankita was very informative. I've been struggling with PCOS for over a decade and have rarely got answers from other gynaecologists as to why I'm facing the issues that I am. Dr Ankita heard me out, and helped me understand why something may or may not work for my body. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I feel relieved and relaxed, knowing that PCOS can be managed.

Aishwarya Parikh

This was the first time in my life that I met a doctor who didn't jump straight to weight loss without hearing my concerns. Dr. Ankita was very considerate, polite and empathetic. She made me feel utmost comfortable when interacting with her.

Devi K Das

All the gynae sessions I’ve had over the years were demotivating and made me anxious. I had given up. Then I discovered Proactive and booked a consultation with Dr Ankita. It was a 30 min discussion where she patiently covered my diet, lifestyle and supplements. The only gynac who’s asked me not to take OCPs. She said that we'll get through PCOS holistically and to not rely on supplements. 

Shruti

Absolutely loved this consultation. It was the first time I spoke so openly about this issue to a doctor and she made me feel comfortable and answered all my questions, no matter how silly or personal. This is a very important initiative and I would recommend this platform and Dr. Ankita to all the women I know. Thank you!

Sanjana

I felt great with the consultation as it was more than just prescribing the medicines.

Ishita Srivastava

These days, it is uncommon to come across doctors who genuinely show concern for their patients. But that's not the case with Proactive. Everyone including the staff and doctors here made sure I'm comfortable.
Dr Ankita was empathetic, extremely pleasant and very understanding. She was also provided a thorough explanation of my symptoms and the treatment plan. I'm grateful to have found Proactive


Ankita Gharge

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