Tag: PCOS

Health Scope

PCOS: When Ovaries Decide to Be Dramatic – A Gynaecologist’s Honest Take

allycaralgoa

Written by Dr. Namrata Raikar, MBBS, MS OBGY | Consultant Obstetrician, Apexcare Hospital, Mahalaxmi

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome—fondly (and frustratingly) known as PCOS—is the queen bee of hormonal disorders. It’s like your ovaries decided to throw a surprise party, invited all the follicles, and forgot to let anyone leave.

From a gynaecologist’s POV, PCOS can be likened to a zoo where the animals (aka hormones) are running the show. Testosterone is dancing on tables, insulin is hiding in the back room, and estrogen is left cleaning up the mess. Result? Acne, weight gain, excess hair, mood swings, and periods that ghost you without warning.

Dr. Namrata Raikar uses humor and relatable metaphors to explain that while PCOS may feel overwhelming, it is manageable. The solution? Lifestyle changes—think clean eating and regular exercise—paired with medical support when necessary.

Ultrasounds reveal a “string of pearls” in the ovaries, but don’t be fooled—these aren’t the kind you wear, and they don’t carry value unless your hormones are balanced.

Her advice is simple: Don’t fear PCOS. Understand it, treat it, and show it who’s boss. With the right approach, you can turn this chaotic drama into a calm, healthy balance.

Because hey, every drama queen can be reformed—even your ovaries.

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GIO Goa Leads the Way in Women’s Health and Wellness

Tanisha Cardozo

In a powerful demonstration of community care and proactive education, the Girls Islamic Organisation (GIO) Goa organized two transformative health awareness sessions this July, focusing on hormonal wellness and women’s cancer awareness.

Hormones and Her: Understanding PCOS and PCOD

Held on 13th July 2025 at the Islamic Centre in Bilwan Peddem, Mapusa, the session titled “Hormones and Her” addressed the rising prevalence of PCOS and PCOD among young women.

Attended by over 85 women, many expressed that it was the first time they truly understood the health implications of these conditions.
Key speakers included:

  • Dr. Vyoma Shanbhag, hormone specialist from Panjim, who demystified symptoms and treatment options for PCOS/PCOD.
  • Dr. Kulsum Khan, Clinical Dietitian at Healthway Hospital, who emphasized the deep connection between lifestyle choices and hormonal health. “What you eat, how you sleep, and how you manage stress all show up in your hormones,” she reminded the audience.

The session emphasized food habits, stress reduction, and balanced living over fad diets or pills.

Busting Myths Around Cancer

On 20th July 2025, a second session took place—this time on the often-taboo topic of women’s cancers, featuring Dr. Shivani Jain, an obstetrician and gynecologist from Manipal Hospital, Panjim.

Dr. Jain tackled breast and cervical cancer, highlighting that:

  • 1 in 28 Indian women are at risk of breast cancer, many unaware it’s not always hereditary.
  • Cervical cancer, largely caused by HPV, is preventable with vaccines and timely Pap smears.

She urged attendees to prioritize early detection through self-exams, screenings, and open conversations.

Building Safer, Stronger Communities

Madeeha Khan, President of GIO Goa, said:

“For years, GIO has worked to build safe spaces where women feel heard, supported, and informed. These sessions are a reflection of that ongoing mission.”

Participants shared stories of clarity, relief, and empowerment.

“It’s the first time I felt like someone explained my health in a way that made sense—and without judgment,” said one attendee.

In a world overwhelmed with misinformation, GIO Goa’s human-centered approach to health education is a vital reminder of what communities can achieve—when they listen, learn, and lead with compassion.

These two events are just the beginning. GIO Goa is committed to continuing such impactful programs, helping women thrive emotionally, physically, and spiritually.