November 18, 2025 : Many women spend years dealing with irregular periods, mood swings, weight changes, or hot flashes without realising how these symptoms connect to larger hormonal shifts. PCOS and menopause, in particular, can influence long-term health in ways that often go unnoticed.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Preetinder Kaur Bedi (Senior Consultant- MBBS, MD, DNB- Obstetrics & Gynaecology), Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital, Motinagar, New Delhi, explains the long-term effects women should know about.
How PCOS affects women’s health
“Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age, impacting up to 10% of women worldwide,” says Dr Preetinder. “It is characterised by irregular menstrual cycles, excessive androgen (male hormone) levels, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries. While PCOS is often discussed in the context of fertility and menstrual issues during a woman’s younger years, its effects do not end with menopause. In fact, both PCOS and menopause have overlapping hormonal and metabolic consequences that can significantly influence long-term women’s health.”
Dr Bedi explains that PCOS results from a complex interaction between genetics, hormones, and lifestyle factors. “The condition disrupts the balance of estrogen, progesterone, and androgens, leading to symptoms such as acne, hair growth, weight gain, and ovulatory dysfunction. As women age, the hormonal fluctuations of menopause, marked by a decline in estrogen production, introduce new changes to the body.”
Summary :
An Apollo gynaecologist emphasized the significance of lifestyle in managing PCOS and menopause, advising women on key health practices, diet, and routines for better overall well-being.