Everything you must know about Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)

PCOD is a severe problem that gives birth to certain other treacherous health issues. It refers to the ubiquity of multiple small cysts in the ovaries, making the menstrual cycle of a woman irregular, infrequent, or abnormal. Owing to this problem, a woman’s hormones are out of balance which often creates difficultly for her to conceive. If not treated timely and correctly, it can also give insulin-resistant diabetes, obesity problems, and elevated cholesterol, prompting coronary illness.

According to a study in India, 1 out of every 10 women in the age group 12-45 years suffer from PCOD. However, it is more common in girls of early menstrual age.

What causes Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)?

While the main cause behind PCOD is still unknown, the research does mention various factors behind such a problem. The ovaries produce female and a tiny amount of male sex hormones to control the normal evolution of eggs in the ovaries during the menstrual period. When there is an imbalance in producing these hormones, i.e., more production of male sex hormones than required, it gives rise to PCOD.

Another reason may be the presence of multiple small cysts in the ovaries. During each menstrual cycle of a woman, one or more eggs are released. When these eggs do not mature or are released from the ovaries, they form small cysts causing PCOD.

Apart from the above causes, other factors such as the family history of PCOD, irregular periods or diabetes, an unhealthy lifestyle, pollution, stress or junk eating habits also contribute to this serious problem.

Common symptoms of PCOD

PCOD symptoms may vary from woman to woman. However, some of the common symptoms of it are:

• Stubborn or regular acne which refuses to heal with regular treatments.
• Irregular or no periods at all. Some women may have their menstrual cycle after a 2 to 3 months gap.
• Unusually heavy flow, or prolonged and painful periods
• Growth of unusual body or facial hair in excess.
• Difficulties in conceiving or infertility
• Excessive hair loss or spots of baldness on the scalp
• Obesity and trouble in losing weight
• Headaches, depression, skin pigmentation, etc.

Treatment to cure PCOD

Though there is no definite cure for the PCOD problem, the best way to permanently Control or reduce this disease is by making some serious lifestyle modifications. The involvement of a gynecologist, dietician, dermatologist, or infertility expert, if required, can be the best way to gain expertise regarding this disease. Tell them what your periods look like, what your physical and mental lifestyle looks like and the different symptoms you may be noticing.

Losing weight has shown to be helpful with the imbalance hormones and infertility. Though losing weight in PCOD is challenging, proper weight management and regular exercises and a healthy diet can provide a lot of relief to the patients. High protein and fiber intake, whereas low sugar and carbohydrates may be required.

Apart from changes in lifestyle, you might want to consult a doctor for medical treatments. These treatments are based on different symptoms. A few of the treatments to name are:

• Medicines to treat insulin resistance and to balance out hormones
• Treatments for acne, unusual hair growth, and pigmentation
• Re-establishment of regular menstrual cycles with less pain
• Fertility drugs to help with difficulty in conceiving

Final Words

It is always recommended to consult a doctor at the early stage to avoid later stage complications. Furthermore, it is important to keep exercising regularly, concentrating on the kind of diet you take and keep note on your period cycle. You must practice to keep yourself healthy and stress free to not let it develop at the first place!