Episode 20: PCOS in Teens: Irregular Periods, Acne, Heavy Periods & What Parents Need to Know

Dr. Rinku Mehra hosts the Endo Kids Podcast with guest Dr. Jessica Ritch, an OB-GYN with minimally invasive gynecology training, to discuss why adolescent menstrual health is a vital sign and how common conditions like PCOS can begin in the teen years but often go ignored. They address misconceptions that painful, heavy, or irregular periods are “normal,” explain when patterns warrant evaluation (especially if symptoms disrupt school or activities), and describe PCOS using parent-friendly criteria: irregular periods, androgen excess (acne, abnormal hair growth or hair loss), and polycystic-appearing ovaries. Dr. Ritch reviews workup (history, tracking cycles, labs including A1C/CBC/iron, and selective ultrasound), treatment options (lifestyle changes, hormonal contraception, metformin, spironolactone, and some supplements), stigma-free counseling, fertility considerations, and recommended ongoing follow-up into adulthood.00:00 Welcome to Endo Kids00:55 Meet the Guest02:00 Why Periods Matter04:14 Parent Period Myths05:39 When to Get Checked08:34 PCOS Explained Simply12:13 Risks and Complications13:42 Testing and Diagnosis16:32 Treatment Options21:10 Reducing PCOS Stigma23:55 Fertility and PCOS26:40 Long Term Follow Up29:31 Key Takeaways and Resources31:10 Google and Final Wrap33:04 Podcast OutroMedical Disclaimer:The information shared on The Endo Kids Podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Please consult your child’s healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.