4 typical signs of diabetes in women

Diabetes is known as the “silent killer” because it often does not cause obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, in women, some symptoms can be warning signs of diabetes or prediabetes. These symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed, while early recognition can lead to timely treatment.

Below are 4 early signs of diabetes typical in women:

Excessive thirst and frequent urination

One of the earliest signs of diabetes is excessive thirst (polydipsia). This symptom is not unique to women, and is related to frequent urination (polyuria). The condition may worsen during pregnancy or menstruation due to hormonal changes.

You may urinate more often than usual, especially at night because high blood sugar causes your kidneys to work too hard to filter out excess glucose, leading to dehydration. A study published on Diabetes Care Magazine showed that in the early stages of diabetes, women are more likely than men to experience bladder discomfort and related symptoms of dehydration.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance

Women with PCOS have a higher than normal risk of type 2 diabetes. PCOS, a hormonal disorder, impairs the body’s ability to use insulin leading to insulin resistance – a precursor to diabetes. As diabetes develops, symptoms such as irregular periods, weight gain, and acne may worsen.

Theo Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism70% of women with PCOS may have some degree of insulin resistance, increasing the risk of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Frequent urinary tract infections can be an overlooked sign of diabetes in women. High blood sugar levels create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, leading to recurring infections. Because the urethra is shorter, women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections and may experience this symptom as an early sign of diabetes.

A study on Journal of Diabetes and its Complications found that women with diabetes are twice as likely to develop urinary tract infections as those without the disease.

Heavy or irregular menstruation

Diabetes can disrupt the menstrual cycle, causing heavy or irregular periods. This happens because diabetes affects hormone regulation and insulin sensitivity, both of which play important roles in the reproductive system.

According to research from American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecologywhen blood sugar levels are poorly controlled, you are more likely to have menstrual disorders. These disorders signal underlying insulin resistance or diabetes, especially if they appear along with other symptoms such as fatigue or weight changes.