09/17/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/17/2024 00:03
Polycystic Ovary Disorder, or PCOD, is a hormonal disorder usually reported in younger women of reproductive age. This disorder showcases various symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, development of ovarian cysts, elevated testosterone levels and physiological stress. If these symptoms are ignored, it can lead to many complications, such as infertility.
Hence, it is essential to know its symptoms and consult a healthcare provider in the early stages to rule out the cause. In fact, as per WHO reports, 70% of PCOD cases go undiagnosed, with delayed diagnosis leading to various co-morbidities, making treatment complex and challenging. Hence, awareness of PCOD symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and overall health management.
Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOD) is a condition where the ovaries in a woman's body overproduce immature eggs due to hormonal imbalance. The word polycystic indicates the presence of several small cysts that develop in the ovaries. Although these cysts are individually benign or not harmful, they can cause hormonal disorders and fertility-related complications in the patient.
These cysts enlarge in the ovaries and produce elevated levels of male sex hormones called androgens. Due to this hormonal imbalance, various symptoms of PCOD start to appear in women and due to lack of awareness, it often goes unnoticed, resulting in complications in later treatment. To raise awareness and to ensure knowledge of these potential symptoms, below are some of the common symptoms of PCOD:
Symptoms |
Description |
Irregular menstrual cycles |
This can be prolonged menstrual or missed cycles, once every 3-6 months. |
Growth of excess hair (hirsutism) |
Development of more than average amounts of undesired hair on the face and body. |
Acne |
Frequent appearance of pimples that do not respond to traditional therapies. |
Weight gain |
Difficulty in losing weight, particularly in the belly area. |
Thinning hair |
Gradual hair loss from the scalp resembling male-pattern baldness. |
Infertility |
Difficulty in conceiving due to irregular ovulation. |
Skin darkening |
Dark patches under the neck, around groins or underneath breasts. |
Cause/Risk Factor |
Description |
Genetic predisposition |
Family member with a history of PCOD or related hormonal conditions. |
Obesity |
Obesity increases the risk of hyperandrogenaemia (elevated levels of androgens) and metabolic disorders. |
Insulin resistance |
Insulin resistance, which is linked with obesity, also causes excess production of androgens, leading to PCOD. |
Sedentary lifestyle |
A sedentary or inactive lifestyle often leads to obesity and other mood swings, making it a critical factor for PCOD. |
Food and Diet |
Consuming processed foods and foods with high trans fats can lead to obesity, which in turn is a cause of PCOD. |
Hormonal imbalances |
Elevated levels of male sex hormones known as androgens can lead to PCOD. |
The diagnostic approach for PCOD usually involves a medical history review, physical examinations, and a range of tests and imaging studies. Initially, doctors may begin by assessing the patient's complete medical history and conducting physical examinations, such as examining hair growth and checking for abdomen pain.
They may also evaluate skin conditions like acne and darkened patches, measure body weight and body mass index (BMI), and examine patient blood pressure. The doctors may advise some investigations to check the levels of androgens and rule out the reasons for irregular periods and polycystic ovaries. A thorough assessment helps to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
Test/Procedure |
Purpose |
Blood test |
To measure hormone levels, including androgens, insulin and thyroid levels. |
Pelvic ultrasound |
To visualise the ovaries and check for cysts. |
Lipid profile |
To assess cholesterol and triglyceride levels. |
It is essential to see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
To manage the impact of PCOD, affected individuals need to make certain lifestyle changes, take medication, and eventually turn to other remedies. The management of PCOD includes relief of symptoms, prevention and control of complications and enhancement of the quality of life.
Lifestyle changes and diet tips
Recommended Foods |
Foods to Avoid |
Fruits and vegetables |
Processed foods |
Whole grains |
Sugary drinks |
Lean protein |
High-fat dairy products |
Healthy fats |
Fried foods |
Fiber-rich foods |
Excessive salt and sugar |
Focus on:
Regular physical activity is essential for managing PCOD. It helps improve insulin sensitivity, reduce weight, and improve mood.
Recommendations:
Treatment Option |
Benefits |
Potential Side Effects |
Oral Contraceptives or birth control pills |
Regularise periods, control the excess production of androgens and reduce acne. |
Increased risk of blood clots, headaches, mood swings and nausea. |
Metformin |
Improves insulin sensitivity, reduces androgen levels, and may aid in weight loss. |
Gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and diarrhoea. |
Clomiphene Citrate |
Stimulates ovulation and promotes fertility. |
Multiple births, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, and vision problems. |
Hormonal therapy works well, when it comes to the treatment of the symptoms related to PCOD. Oral contraceptives can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, controlling hormonal fluctuation and thereby managing acne relating to androgen excess. Hormonal therapy is not only used to improve quality of life but also used to reduce complications of PCOD in future. Although the treatment is effective, it is important to discuss the potential benefits, risks, and side effects with the doctor.
Apart from pharmacological treatment, many women opt for natural and alternate therapies in order to reduce the side effects of medications. Numerous dietary and lifestyle therapies have demonstrated counteractive effects on PCOD. The synergistic activity of these substances has reduced the prevalence of PCOS in many countries. Here are some effective natural approaches:
Balanced diet:Based on certain changes in the diet, consumption of low glycaemic index such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains has been reported to control the blood glucose levels.
Anti-inflammatoryFoods: Foods that help in minimizing inflammations are commonly witnessed in reducing the insulin resistance in PCOD patients, and hence one should incorporate foods such as berries, fatty fish and leafy green veggies.
Herbal remedies
Spearmint Tea: Spearmint tea, if consumed twice a day, helps reduce androgen levels, and one will also be relieved of hirsutism.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon works like insulin in the body and therefore helps in the strengthening of insulin sensitivity. Including it in your diet is healthy for those people who are suffering from PCOD problems.
Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds act as an insulin optimiser and are effective in balancing hormonal levels.
Supplements:Adding certain supplements enhances our endurance and performance. Here are some of them
Inositol: Many clinical studies have shown that inositol and its derivatives, especially Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, have beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and reduce PCOD symptoms.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is a critical factor frequently reported in individuals with PCOD. As vitamin D is linked to improve insulin resistance and hormonal status and its deficiency may be the contributing factor to PCOD.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: It is evidenced that the anti-inflammatory effects of Omega-3 fatty acid supplements may also reduce menstrual irregularities.
While not a substitute for conventional treatment, some natural remedies and alternative therapies may provide additional support in managing PCOD symptoms.
If the symptoms of PCOD are not treated in time, then the following health problems are most likely to occur in the near future.
If PCOD is left untreated, it can result in fertility problems due to ovulation, hormonal dysfunctions and high levels of androgens. Although the condition is reversible, as many women with PCOD conceive naturally, some may need help with ovulation induction in the form of medication or even assisted reproductive technologies (ART), like in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
A healthy diet plan is necessary to lower the PCOD signs and early indications. Weight reduction, with at least 5-10 per cent loss of initial weight, enhances insulin response and menstrual cycling and lessens the probability of developing type 2 diabetes.
Lifestyle Changes |
Benefits |
Regular exercise |
Improves insulin sensitivity, aids weight management |
Balanced diet |
Helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduces inflammation |
Weight loss (if overweight) |
Lowers insulin levels, improves ovulation |
Reducing refined carbs and sugars |
Stabilises blood glucose levels |
Women suffering from PCOD will have an increased risk of developing type II diabetes and cardiovascular diseases because of increased insulin resistance and obesity.
Strategies for Prevention:
Living with PCOD can affect mental health, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and frustration.
Coping strategies:
While there is no foolproof way to prevent PCOD, certain lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk.
Tips for Reducing the Risk of Developing PCOD
Preventive Strategy |
Description |
Maintain a healthy weight |
Excess weight increases the risk of developing PCOD and its complications. |
Engage in regular physical activity |
Exercise helps regulate hormones, improve insulin sensitivity, and manage weight. |
Follow a balanced diet |
Choose nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. |
Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats |
These contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation. |
Manage stress levels |
Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance and increase the risk of PCOD. |
Early Intervention Strategies
Avoid junk foods, focus on eating healthy food with a low glycaemic index, exercise regularly, and practice yoga or mindfulness.
Some natural remedies, like acupuncture and herbal supplements, may provide additional support, but it's crucial to consult a doctor before trying them.
Living with PCOS can be emotionally challenging. It's important to remember that you're not alone. It is okay to feel anxious or frustrated; however, one can practice some strategies like focusing on progress, not perfection, taking ups and downs as a part of life, and replacing negative thoughts with positive ones.
The doctor may ask about medical history and perform physical examinations. Further, they may advise certain diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of PCOD.
Losing a small amount of weight (5-10%) can improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and minimise the risk of other health-related conditions associated with PCOS.
If left untreated, PCOD can lead to infertility, metabolic syndrome, depression or sometimes can lead to endometrial cancer.
It is important to visit a gynaecologist regularly and schedule time with other healthcare providers, such as an endocrinologist or a nutritionist. Living healthily, performing regular activities, and eating a healthy diet can greatly improve PCOS symptoms.
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