Latest news with #RishmaPai
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
11 hours ago
- Health
- First Post
Beyond irregular periods: How AMH+ and other new tests are changing PCOS diagnosis for Indian women
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is rising among Indian women, especially in urban areas. This article explores its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and how new tools like the AMH+ test offer accurate, non-invasive early detection—empowering women to manage their reproductive health more effectively and proactively. read more Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has emerged as one of the most prevalent hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. Recent studies, including one published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), estimate that PCOS affects between 7.2 per cent to 19.6 per cent of Indian women with higher prevalence seen in urban populations. The condition, characterised by hormonal imbalance and metabolic issues, can lead to a range of symptoms, from irregular periods and weight gain to acne, excessive hair growth and infertility. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Firstpost talked to Dr. Rishma Pai, an honorary consultant Gynaecologist at the Lilavati, HN Reliance Hospital and Hinduja Hospitals (Mumbai) to understand the growing burden of PCOS in India, the diagnostic challenges women face and how new tools like the AMH+ test are transforming early detection and management. The Rising Tide of PCOS in India Dr Rishma: Urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, and increasing stress levels have all contributed to the rising prevalence of PCOS in India. Coupled with low awareness and stigma surrounding reproductive health, many women either ignore the signs or seek medical attention too late. PCOS is not just a reproductive issue if left unmanaged, it can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer. The Diagnostic Dilemma Dr Rishma: PCOS is often diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features: irregular or absent periods, signs of high androgen levels (clinically or through lab reports), and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. However, this process can be prolonged and inconsistent. Many women go undiagnosed for years, which delays treatment and worsens their overall health outcomes. Common Challenges Faced by Women Delayed or missed diagnosis due to lack of awareness Discomfort with transvaginal ultrasounds, especially for unmarried women Mismanagement of symptoms, often treated in isolation (e.g., only acne or only irregular periods) Mental health toll due to chronic stress, infertility struggles, and body image issues Diagnostic Tests Available for PCOS in India While we talk about it, there are a range of diagnostic tests available in India. These include: Ultrasound Scan (Pelvic or Transvaginal Ultrasound) Used to detect the presence of multiple small follicles on the ovaries, which gives the condition its name. Often done on Day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle. May not be preferred by or suitable for all women, especially those who are unmarried. Hormone Blood Tests These measure levels of testosterone, LH (Luteinizing Hormone), FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), and prolactin. Elevated androgens or a high LH:FSH ratio can indicate hormonal imbalance typical of PCOS. Glucose and Insulin Resistance Tests Includes fasting glucose, insulin levels, and HbA1c to check for insulin resistance or prediabetes. Insulin resistance is a common but under-recognized reason behind PCOS. AMH+ Test (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) A simple blood test that measures AMH levels to evaluate ovarian reserve and function. High AMH levels are associated with PCOS as they reflect the increased load of antral follicles. Therefore, AMH+ is an important indicator to identify PCOS. While there are other AMH tests available in India from different manufacturers, the AMH+ test developed by Roche Diagnostics is the first DCGI-approved diagnostic tool for PCOM in aiding the diagnosis of PCOS in India. It is also CE-marked in Europe, reinforcing its global and regulatory credibility. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Unlike traditional diagnostic methods like transvaginal ultrasound, which must be timed with the menstrual cycle and can be invasive, AMH+ can be conducted on any day of the cycle, offering a more convenient, accessible, and non-invasive option. It is the most accurate and reliable test available to diagnose PCOS. Thyroid Function Tests and Lipid Profile Thyroid dysfunction and lipid imbalances are commonly associated with PCOS. These tests are crucial in evaluating broader metabolic impacts and ruling out other conditions that mimic PCOS symptoms. Timely and accurate diagnosis is the first step in managing PCOS effectively. With newer diagnostic tools like the AMH+ test, combined with clinical insights and lifestyle guidance, women can take proactive control over their reproductive health.
India Today
19 hours ago
- Health
- India Today
How weight-loss drugs are impacting Indian women with PCOS and infertility
With the launch of Wegovy, a globally recognised weight-loss drug, and Mounjaro, earlier launched by US medicine company Eli Lilly, India has entered a new phase in the management of years, doctors and patients alike have grappled with the challenge of tackling obesity, especially in women. Now, with newer tools at hand, experts believe the tide may finally be gynaecologist Dr. Rishma Pai speaks at length about how obesity is no longer just a cosmetic issue, it is a medical condition with deep consequences, especially for women dealing with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), infertility, and post-menopausal health risks. According to Dr. Pai, nearly one in three women in India is living with obesity. 'Obesity is not just about appearance, it's ABCD: adiposity-based chronic disease,' she includes a wide range of health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, infertility, sleep apnea, arthritis, and even some cancers of the breast and women, the burden is heavy because obesity affects them differently, and often more severely, than men. With newer tools at hand like new-age drugs, experts believe the tide may finally be turning for obesity. () advertisementFrom adolescence to menopause, hormonal changes make it harder to lose weight, and easier to gain AND THE WEIGHT STRUGGLEPCOS affects 30–35% of young women in India and is closely linked to obesity. Dr. Pai, a consulting gynaecologist at Lilavati Hospital, PD Hinduja Hospital, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, says she sees many women battling irregular periods, acne, facial hair, and weight gain -- all classic signs of PCOS.'The sad part is that until now, we had very little to offer these young women. The older weight-loss medicines barely helped them lose 2–3 kg. It was frustrating for both doctors and patients,' she tells even a 5% weight loss can significantly improve symptoms.'Once these women lose just a bit of weight, periods become regular, ovulation gets better, and in many cases, fertility improves, without the need for any other medication," she adds. PCOS affects 30–35% of young women in India and is closely linked to obesity. () Dr. Pai sees this as a major step forward in pre-pregnancy care. 'Many women walk into my clinic weighing 85 kg and planning a pregnancy. If they become pregnant at this weight, they often cross 100 kg during pregnancy. This puts them at high risk for diabetes, hypertension, and complications. Doctors too are stressed managing these high-risk pregnancies.'advertisementShe recommends a focused pre-pregnancy weight-loss plan, ideally stopping the medication a month before trying to MENOPAUSE METABOLIC SHIFTMenopause presents another weight-related hurdle. 'Even women who've been slim their whole lives suddenly find their midsections expanding,' she says. This midlife weight gain is driven by hormonal shifts and puts women at increased risk for heart disease, metabolic disorders, and certain Pai stresses that women at every life stage, from puberty to menopause, must be supported in achieving a healthy body THE SCALE: SHAME, STIGMA AND MENTAL HEALTHDr. Pai calls to treat obesity with compassion, as even healthcare professionals can be biased. "When an overweight woman walks into a clinic, many assume she's lazy or careless. That's simply not true,' she problem is worsened by the pressure women face to look a certain way, especially in the age of social media. 'Pre-wedding weight loss has become almost compulsory. Brides starve themselves or opt for surgeries, just to look good in photos. But after the wedding, many regain all the weight,' she adds. A focused pre-pregnancy weight-loss plan, ideally stopping the medication a month before trying to conceive. () advertisementA 2022 Novo survey conducted across Asia-Pacific found that one-third of people with obesity refused to acknowledge their condition. Two-thirds blamed themselves for it. 'This shows how little we understand obesity as a chronic disease,' said Dr. DRUGS: NOT A MAGIC CURE, BUT A POWERFUL TOOLDr. Pai believes drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy) are not miracle cures, but they can be powerful insists that the use of these drugs must be part of a bigger, long-term strategy that includes counselling, behavioural change, and consistent drugs can be added to pre-pregnancy programs as well, to help women lose weight, become healthier, and then stop the medication one month prior to planning pregnancy. But this needs to be done very strategically, under medical supervision with a sustainable can't take these medicines for six months, then binge-eat and expect to maintain weight loss. Sustaining it is even harder than achieving it," she the results are motivating. 'When a woman sees even a few kgs drop, she feels confident and inspired. That's the start of a bigger transformation.'More than anything, Dr. Pai wants to change how we talk about weight: 'Let's stop saying thin equals healthy. Fitness is not just about looks. There are thin women with high body fat and low muscle mass. We need to create awareness—not judgement.'- EndsMust Watch
