Latest news with #PCOS


NDTV
an hour ago
- Health
- NDTV
Fatty Liver In Women: Causes & Signs To Watch Out For
Fatty liver is a significant health concern for women, and it's increasingly common due to lifestyle, diet, and hormonal factors. Known medically as hepatic steatosis, fatty liver occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver, which can lead to inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure if left unchecked. Women especially postmenopausal or those with conditions like PCOS or insulin resistance may be more prone to developing it. Early signs can be vague or nonexistent, but recognising symptoms and understanding the causes can help in catching and reversing the condition before it progresses into something more serious. Below we share common causes and signs of fatty liver in women. 10 Common causes and signs of fatty liver in women 1. Abdominal discomfort or fullness Many women with fatty liver feel a dull ache or heaviness in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver sits. This discomfort may come and go and is often mistaken for bloating or indigestion. 2. Unexplained fatigue Chronic tiredness is a frequent but subtle sign. A fatty liver can impact energy metabolism, making women feel worn out or sluggish, even after proper rest. 3. Obesity or being overweight Excess body weight especially belly fat is one of the leading causes of fatty liver. Fat stored around the abdomen is closely linked to increased fat accumulation in the liver. 4. Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes Women with diabetes or pre-diabetes often experience fatty liver due to impaired insulin function. This condition leads to fat being deposited in liver cells more easily. 5. High cholesterol or triglycerides Abnormal blood lipid levels can contribute to fat buildup in the liver. Many women unknowingly have high cholesterol, which worsens liver health over time. 6. Hormonal changes Hormonal shifts during menopause or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase insulin resistance and body fat, raising the risk of fatty liver in women. 7. Rapid weight loss or crash diets Ironically, losing weight too quickly can stress the liver and worsen fat accumulation. This often happens with extreme dieting or fad cleanses, which are more commonly tried by women. 8. Alcohol consumption Even moderate drinking can contribute to fatty liver in some women. While non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is more common, alcohol-related liver damage can also coexist. 9. Dark patches on skin This skin condition, often seen in body folds like the neck or armpits, can be a visual clue of insulin resistance, a major factor in fatty liver disease. 10. Elevated liver enzymes on a blood test Often, fatty liver is discovered when routine blood work shows elevated liver enzymes, like ALT or AST. Though this isn't a symptom you feel, it's a red flag that the liver is under stress. Addressing fatty liver early through weight management, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol can help reverse the condition. Women should also monitor hormone and blood sugar levels, especially during and after menopause. A liver-friendly lifestyle goes a long way in protecting long-term health. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.


Buzz Feed
an hour ago
- General
- Buzz Feed
45 Wildly Dumb Comments Men Made About Women's Bodies
These people were really, really confused about vaginas. This person thought sperm should not be counted as a baby, but women's eggs should. This man thought "saggy boobs" were caused by having over five partners. This person made a wild assertion on a thread about Riley Reid's husband. This man thought men could tell how big your past partners were based on your vagina. This pastor had no business speaking about women at all. This person thought you could have an abortion at...a year and eight months? This man thought periods weren't a "real thing." This person thought "uterine orgasms" were a thing. This person thought women give birth and have sex through different holes. This person made the baffling claim that women don't die from pregnancy. This person defined "written by a man" literature. This man forgot the word "women." This person should never, ever be allowed to have sex with a woman. This person did NOT do their research before commenting. This person thought you could get PCOS from being "lazy." This person thought people can tell they're pregnant after just days. This man thought ovum had SHELLS on them. This guy thought "by and large births are painless." This guy didn't realize that everyone has at least one X chromosome — and that people AFAB have two. This person thought that breastfeeding your child causes them to experience sexual arousal. This person thought women who have difficulty climaxing should blame the "plaque buildup" from eating animal byproducts. This guy apparently thought a woman miscarried in his mouth??? This person knew nothing about TSS. This person thought boobs have no function besides sex appeal. This person thought being horny causes lactation. This person didn't realize you can get your period in middle school. And this person thought 13-year-olds shouldn't use tampons. This person thought you literally couldn't, and that tampons are also unsanitary. This man thought marriage changes a woman's genetic code. This person thought cheating while pregnant caused miscarriages. This guy spewed a bunch of nonsense about menstruation. And this guy also spewed nonsense, this time about vaginas. This person thought women have the urge to kill their baby after giving birth. This person thought women ejaculated their eggs. This person thought the clitoris was a that it makes babies. This guy thought everyone's period came at the end of the month. This person thought it was impossible to have a healthy child in you thirties because eggs "expire like milk." This man thought "man-like behaviors" caused women to shave and use skincare products. This guy thought ovaries were not only reachable with his penis, but that it was enjoyable to penetrate them. This person said that after women have sex for the first time that their uterus shows through their stomach because it's full of sperm. This person thought peeing after sex prevented pregnancy. This man had a bit of trouble understanding both the function and spelling of the fallopian tube. This guy thought people who menstruate could control their periods. And finally, this man was just very, very confused. What's the most clueless thing a man has said to you about your body? Let us know in the comments!


News18
3 hours ago
- Health
- News18
8 Early Signs Of PCOS That Most Women Overlook
If women experience irregular ovulation or missed ovulation, thin endometrium, or no dominant follicle, it could be a sign of PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that leads to the formation of cysts in the ovaries. While its exact cause remains unclear, it's believed to stem from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and mood swings are often mistaken for routine health issues, causing many women to overlook the early signs of PCOS. Dr. Suguna Deepti Kapila, a gynaecologist, took to Instagram on July 9 and provided insights into this hormonal disorder. Dr. Suguna wrote that PCOS often starts silently, and it is common to overlook the symptoms at first, and shared a few early signs that women should watch for. According to Dr. Suguna, early signs of PCOS include: Irregular Periods But Not Absent According to Dr. Suguna, early signs of PCOS include your periods arriving late, generally 35-40 days, sometimes regular, sometimes delayed. She also advised women to watch out for brown spotting and light flow during irregular periods. Weight Gain, Especially In The Stomach Area Gaining weight without major diet changes could count as an early sign of PCOS. Belly and waist fat increase, making you feel bloated very often. Mild Skin and Hair Changes Women should watch out for sudden acne on the jaw or chin area, greasy skin or oily scalp, thicker upper lip or chin hair, and more hair falling from the crown area. Sugar Cravings and Energy Slumps Excessive sugar cravings after meals can also hint at early signs of PCOS. Women should watch out if they feel sleepy or dull after eating and need to depend on caffeine or sugar to stay awake. Skin Darkening in Folds Dark velvety patches on the neck, underarms, or groin area could also be early signs of PCOS. Although it looks like dirt or tanning, it does not go away and makes the skin thicker. Mood and Sleep Disruptions Mood swings and anxiety, especially during or near periods, should also be taken seriously. Women should pay attention if they feel tired even after 8 hours of sleep and have trouble falling or staying asleep. Trouble Conceiving If women experience irregular ovulation or missed ovulation, thin endometrium, or no dominant follicle, it could be a sign of PCOS. Family History In some cases, family history plays a significant role in getting PCOS, and sometimes early hormone pill prescriptions can also heighten the chances of PCOS. Various gynaecologists suggest that having whole foods, getting enough sunlight, working out regularly, cutting down on carbohydrates, and having a well-balanced diet can help in managing the symptoms. 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 : pcos view comments Location : Mumbai, India, India First Published: 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.


Vogue Singapore
7 hours ago
- Health
- Vogue Singapore
Ask a doctor: What are vaginal yeast infections?
The body is a temple; sacred, and to be protected. Yet most women would know, the task is a trying one. The female body, after all, is one carved in crevices and endless mystery. Growing up, the first scare comes in a sudden streak of red—the day we begin menstruating. Girls, in the throes of becoming women. It is also then, that we realise our bodies can be so different—even woman to woman. Some are fraught with irregular periods, whilst others might discover that they are affected by PCOS ( Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Then, there are the slew of vaginal issues that may occur to any woman at any point in time. Vaginal yeast infections, for one, are more common than one might think. In a study published by the Journal of the Turkish-German Gynecological Association, it is estimated that 75% of women will have a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime. Caused by a range of both internal and external factors—from diseases like diabetes and major hormonal changes, to the use of vaginal washes and sexual intercourse—yeast infections can similarly manifest in a number of symptoms such as abnormal, clumpy discharge, pain in the genital area or discomfort during sex. And yet? Ask any of your female peers around you, and most would come up blank when asked about it, despite how common it is. Not to fret though; here, we speak to the women health's expert Dr Michelle Chia of Ezra Clinic for the full lowdown: what to look out for, whether you should be vaginal douching or yoni steaming, and treating it when it happens. What are yeast infections? What are the main causes of it? Yeast infection, or thrush, is a very common fungal infection that leads to vaginal infection. The main causes are due to overgrowth of the fungal organism candida albicans, caused by a disruption of the bacterial flora or vaginal pH levels. There are a range of factors that can lead to it. Taking antibiotics as treatment for another illness could increase the chances of vaginitis or inflammation, as is kills off the good bacteria in the vagina, hence disrupting the bacterial balance which causes an overgrowth of thrush. Sexual intercourse too is an extremely common trigger as it disrupts the vaginal pH. Other major hormonal changes that happen within the body are also common causes such as pregnancy or birth control pills. The use of vaginal washes or wearing very tight clothing are also external factors that might result in infections. What is it often confused with? It can be confused with vaginal bacterial infections or sometimes even sexually transmitted infections. What are the most common symptoms? How do we test for it? Common symptoms include vaginal itching, burning sensation, discomfort, abnormal vaginal discharge that is yellowish greenish or clumpy. You might also suffer from pain, soreness or discomfort from the genital area during sexual intercourse or when passing urine, especially if its a recurring issue for you. To test for it, you are ultimately advised to see a medical professional, who will make a diagnosis based on a vaginal swab test, which is quick and painless when done by an experienced practitioner. Courtesy of Ezra Clinic Can a yeast infection be treated with home remedies such as yoni steaming? It is not recommended to treat yeast infection with home remedies, as it disrupts the natural vaginal pH. If you are experiencing any abnormal symptoms, it is recommended to consult a medical professional. Should I wash it with a vaginal wash or douche? No, you should not be using vaginal wash or douche. These products often cause more irritation due to chemical contents and leads to further disruption of vaginal pH levels. Contrary to what many women believe that vaginal washes or douches are more hygienic, these products often lead to more infections. What sort of clothing should I wear when I have a vaginal yeast infection? It is recommended to wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing like cotton underwear and dresses. Try to avoid exercise tights or non-breathable synthetic materials. The use of tight clothing prevents ventilation around the vaginal region especially with the humid weather in Singapore. The humidity and moisture can also lead to vaginitis and skin irritation. Can it be sexually transmitted? Does one have to abstain from sexual activity if they have it? Yeast infection is not an STI and are unlikely to be transmitted through sexual contact. In contrast, STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea are caused by bacteria transmitted through sexual activity. The symptoms may often be similar to that of a yeast infection. However, sexual activity can trigger an infection. It is recommended to abstain from sexual activity until the condition is properly treated. Do yeast infections commonly recur? According to a study, about five to eight percent of women who have been affected by vaginal yeast infection before can experience recurrent infections, which might mean having four or more yeast infections within just one year. This might be due to a weakened immune system or certain conditions like diabetes, where certain medications suppress immune function. Lifestyle factors like stress, poor hygiene or sexual activity might also be influencing the recurrence. Are there other ways to prevent or treat it? Treatment will depend on what medication is required after your doctor examines you and takes a look at your medical history. This might include a range of over-the-counter antifungal medications such as creams and ointments or oral prescriptions. To avoid vaginal yeast infections, don't do vaginal washes or douching, avoid wearing panty liners, wear cotton underwear, and avoid tight fitting clothes. You are also advised to consider adding vaginal probiotics to your regime.


News18
18 hours ago
- Health
- News18
Weight Loss Drugs: What You're Not Hearing About GLP-1 And GIP Based Injectables For Weight Loss
Weight loss drugs: Real success is about taking control, gaining confidence, and achieving the energy to live life to the full, not simply shedding kilos. Discussions on weight loss have been going on for decades, but the discussion has evolved significantly in the last few years. Increasingly, people are turning to weight loss alternatives like injections, moving beyond just diet and exercise regimens. In this trend GLP-1-based injectables—which help manage blood sugar and support weight loss are becoming increasingly popular. While these injections may seem like an easy and almost immediate fix, an important part of the conversation is often left out: the need for careful eligibility assessment, continuous medical oversight, and safety concerns. These discussions leave out the real reasons behind why we gain weight, and the impact of our own lifestyles and habits. Dr. Anju Ghei, MBBS, PGCRT, Head – Preventive Health, VLCC shares all you need to know: These injectable drugs were initially approved for treating type 2 diabetes and are now also approved to manage obesity. They work by mimicking our natural hormones in the gut, GLP-1 and GIP, which help the body release insulin, slow stomach emptying, and signal a feeling of fullness, thus reducing appetite. In addition, GIP also regulates fat metabolism. By doing so, they assist in the weight loss of up to 10–20% of body weight as well as improvement in metabolic parameters. For people dealing with Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnoea, PCOS, or other obesity-related health issues, these beneficial effects can be truly life-changing. But these medications are not a magic bullet, and certainly not for everyone. Clinical evidence shows that weight regain is common once the drugs are discontinued, especially when not supported by holistic lifestyle changes. Additionally, they may cause side effects such as nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances, constipation, or bloating. In rare cases, serious complications like pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or allergic reactions may arise. Moreover, rapid weight loss itself can result in muscle loss, skin laxity, nutrient deficiencies, electrolyte imbalance, and hormonal imbalance, with symptoms like fatigue, anxiety and mood swings. This is why careful eligibility assessment and close medical monitoring are both essential throughout the weight-loss journey. Weight Loss: More Than Numbers Weight loss isn't just about losing kilos, it's about rebalancing many parts of your system. That means balancing hormones, fixing your gut health, sleeping better, controlling stress, staying active and addressing emotional triggers. Injectables may get the ball rolling, but without also identifying and fixing the underlying issues, the results do not last. These drugs must be used under proper medical guidance only, with detailed health profiling and systematic lifestyle guidance. They are most appropriate for people with certain medical conditions for which changing lifestyle alone hasn't helped. So, What's the Alternative? A better approach for long lasting benefits, even after the drugs are discontinued, is integrated wellness. By integrating wellness practices of nutrition (working around whole foods and conscientious calorie management), physical exercise, emotional well-being (stress reduction, behavioural therapy), and habituated lifestyle routines, this approach offers lifelong benefits. Though this pathway takes more time, discipline, and commitment, it provides something injectables can't: side-effect-free, lasting transformation. It's the best approach for those who do not have extreme metabolic disorders, desire self-control over their own health, and are not afraid to construct their own change, brick by brick. The best strategy, therefore, is to balance both, but with expert supervision. Injectables can provide the initial thrust, but they deliver real benefits only when they are part of a tailored plan that addresses physical, emotional, and metabolic well-being. Begin a conversation with your doctor. Monitor not only your weight, but also your energy, sleep, digestion, and mood. Long-term weight loss is about consistency, not perfection. GLP-1 Injectables might be part of the process but should not be the end goal. Real success is about taking control, gaining confidence, and achieving the energy to live life to the full, not simply shedding kilos. view comments 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.