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 Kids

00:55 Meet the Guest

02:00 Why Periods Matter

04:14 Parent Period Myths

05:39 When to Get Checked

08:34 PCOS Explained Simply

12:13 Risks and Complications

13:42 Testing and Diagnosis

16:32 Treatment Options

21:10 Reducing PCOS Stigma

23:55 Fertility and PCOS

26:40 Long Term Follow Up

29:31 Key Takeaways and Resources

31:10 Google and Final Wrap

33:04 Podcast Outro

Medical 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.