PCOD, PCOS, Hormonal Imbalance, and the Unspoken Struggles of Women

PCOD, PCOS, Hormonal Imbalance, and the Unspoken Struggles of Women

As women, we often carry burdens that go unnoticed, hidden behind the demands of daily life.

Conditions like PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disorder), PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), hormonal

imbalance, facial hair growth, irregular periods, and excruciating period pain affect millions of

women globally. Yet, despite their prevalence, these conditions remain shrouded in

misunderstanding and silence.

Let’s break some myths.

? Myth: PCOS only affects fertility.

o Truth: PCOS is a metabolic disorder that can lead to serious complications such as

diabetes and heart disease.

? Myth: Hormonal imbalances are just part of life.

o Truth: These imbalances can signal underlying health issues requiring medical

intervention.

As Dr. Ritu Saluja, a renowned gynecologist, wisely said, "The first step toward managing these

conditions is education and awareness. Women should not suffer in silence or feel ashamed of

what their bodies are going through. Employers and society at large must create supportive

environments to accommodate their needs."

But how do we as a society respond? Too often, women facing these conditions are met with

judgment, discrimination, or even dismissal. Imagine being told that a medical condition could cost

you your job. For many, this is the reality.

Catherine’s Story

Living with PCOS has been a journey full of challenges for Catherine. From navigating the

unpredictability of painless periods one moment to debilitating pain the next—sometimes lasting

weeks—it’s more than just physical discomfort. There are days when she feels utterly exhausted,

her body worn down by food sensitivities and the constant need to monitor her diet.

"I’ve pushed through workdays in severe pain," Catherine shares, "lying on the floor just to find

some relief, wondering if anyone truly understood what I was going through."

Catherine’s struggle reflects the painful reality faced by millions of women. Statistics reveal that

approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide suffer from PCOS, making it one of

the most common endocrine disorders. Research also shows that over 70% of women with

PCOS experience severe fatigue and pain, significantly impacting their productivity and career

opportunities.

Yet, despite these struggles, women like Catherine continue to thrive. “We are still human, still

capable, and still powerful,” she says. “Through it all, I’ve learned that our struggles don’t define us.

Despite the pain, we can rise, succeed, and show resilience in our careers.”

It’s time for workplaces to recognize this strength and offer the support these women need. Nearly

50% of women with PCOS go undiagnosed, suffering for years before receiving the right care. The condition also has mental health implications—women with PCOS are three times more likely to

experience anxiety and depression than those without it.

A Call to Action for Employers

Employers can—and must—create more inclusive workplaces. Simple accommodations like

flexible working hours, remote work options, and health support systems can make a world of

difference. Women should never fear that their health conditions will make them less employable.

As Dr. Saluja emphasizes, supportive environments are key to helping women manage these

conditions without compromising their professional potential.

To all the women out there: You are not alone. Your struggles are valid, and your resilience is

inspiring. To employers: It's time to listen, support, and foster environments where women can

thrive without fear of discrimination. Let's break the silence, end the stigma, and ensure every

woman’s pain is acknowledged and supported.

Special appreciation to Catherine for her bravery in sharing her journey and to Dr. Ritu Saluja for

her tireless work in advocating for women’s health.

Let’s keep this conversation going!

#PCOD #PCOS #WomensHealth #HormonalImbalance #PeriodPain #WorkplaceInclusion

#NoStigma #HealthAwareness #SupportWomen #BreakTheSilence #EndDiscrimination

#XRPHealthcare #CatherineBravery #DrRituSaluja #Head Heart Hands