Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD): Overview, Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

A hormonal disorder, Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), affects women of reproductive age. It’s characterised by an imbalance of reproductive hormones, leading to various symptoms & potential long-term health complications.

What is PCOD?

PCOD affects the ovaries, causing excessive production of male hormones (androgens). This hormonal imbalance disrupts normal ovarian function, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and small ovarian cysts. The exact cause, most of the time, remains undetermined but likely involves genetic and environmental factors. Insulin resistance is common in women with PCOD, contributing to hormonal imbalance and symptom exacerbation.

Symptoms of PCOD

Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or back
• Acne or oily skin
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Thinning hair or baldness
• Infertility or difficulty conceiving
• Mood changes or depression
• Sleep apnea or snoring

Symptom severity varies among individuals, with some experiencing mild or no symptoms.

Reasons for PCOD 

While the exact PCOD problem causes are unclear, potential factors include:

• Insulin resistance
• Genetics
• Obesity
• Environmental factors (exposure to toxins or endocrine-disrupting chemicals)

PCOD is complex, and underlying causes may differ among individuals.

Complications Associated with PCOD

Untreated PCOD can lead to:

• Infertility
• Metabolic syndrome
• Endometrial cancer
• Sleep apnoea
• Depression and anxiety

Proper medical care and treatment are essential to manage symptoms and reduce complication risks.

Diagnosis of PCOD

PCOD is typically diagnosed through:

• Medical History: Doctors will ask about your symptoms, medications, menstrual periods, and weight changes. 
• Physical Examination: Doctors may perform a pelvic exam to check for masses, growths or other changes.
• Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels
• Pelvic Ultrasound: Doctors perform a pelvic ultrasound to visualise the appearance of the ovaries and the thickness of the lining of the uterus.
• Additional tests to rule out other conditions

No single test definitively diagnoses PCOD; healthcare providers consider multiple factors for accurate diagnosis.

Effective Treatment for PCOD

Treatment is tailored to individual symptoms and goals, aiming to manage symptoms, regulate menstrual cycles, and reduce long-term complication risks. Common PCOD problem treatment options include:

Lifestyle Changes: 

• Healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Weight management

Medications:

• Birth control pills
• Anti-androgen medications
• Metformin

Fertility Treatments:

• Ovulation-inducing medications,
• In vitro fertilisation (IVF)

Surgery- In some cases when conservative methods are no longer effective

A holistic treatment plan should be developed in collaboration with your gynaecologist.

PCOD Diet Chart

Diet & lifestyle play crucial roles in managing PCOD symptoms. A recommended diet includes:

Breakfast:

• Whole grain toast or oatmeal
• Poha 
• Plain dosa with coconut chutney
• Eggs or lean protein
• Fresh fruits or vegetables

Mid-morning snack:

• Greek yoghurt with berries
• Handful of nuts or seeds

Lunch:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• A bowl of vegetable brown rice, quinoa
• Whole grain salad with leafy greens and vegetables
• Roasted sweet potatoes or brown rice

Afternoon snack:

• Herbal teas
• A handful of makhanas (fox nuts)
• Mixed nuts or seeds

Dinner:

• Lentil or bean-based dish
• Steamed or sautéed vegetables
• Whole grain bread or brown rice

Adopt a healthy and balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary beverages, and foods high in refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats. Regular exercise & stress management techniques can also help manage PCOD symptoms, says Dr. Geeth Monnappa.

Conclusion

PCOD is a complex hormonal disorder affecting women’s reproductive health and overall well-being. While its exact cause is unknown, it likely involves genetic and environmental factors. Symptoms range from irregular menstrual cycles to more than normal body hair growth and difficulty conceiving.

Untreated PCOD can lead to complications such as infertility, metabolic syndrome, and endometrial cancer. Early diagnosis & proper treatment are essential for symptom management and reducing long-term complication risks. Treatment is individualised and may include lifestyle changes, medications, fertility treatments, or surgery. A balanced diet, active lifestyle routine & stress management techniques play crucial roles in managing PCOD symptoms.

If you suspect PCOD or experience concerning symptoms, consult SPARSH Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital in Bangalore for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Our dedicated healthcare professionals provide personalised care and comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs. With the right approach, many females with PCOD can manage their symptoms effectively & lead healthy lives.

Frequently Ask Questions

What is the leading cause of PCOD?

The exact cause cannot be determined in most cases but likely involves genetic and environmental factors, including insulin resistance, genetics, obesity, and exposure to certain toxins or endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

What happens if a girl has PCOD?

Women with PCOD may experience various symptoms and face increased risks of long-term complications if left untreated.

What are the symptoms of PCOS in a woman?

Common symptoms include irregular menstrual periods, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, thinning hair, infertility, mood changes, and sleep apnea.

How do we overcome the PCOD problem?

comprehensive approach is recommended, including lifestyle changes, medications, fertility treatments if needed, and stress management techniques. Work closely with a doctor to develop a personalised treatment plan.