PCOD-Polycystic ovarian disease
By Dr JK Avhad MBBS MD [ Mumbai ]
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a very common hormonal imbalance condition in women of reproductive age, nowadays. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a wide range of symptoms.
Symptoms of PCOD
Common symptoms of PCOD are often due to higher than normal levels of androgens (male hormones)
- Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles may be infrequent, delayed, or absent.
- Weight gain.
- Acne and oily skin.
- Hirsutism: Excessive hair growth on the face, chest.
- Hair thinning or male-pattern hair loss on the scalp.
- Infertility: Irregular periods can make natural pregnancy difficult.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not not known.
- Insulin resistance: The body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin.
- Unhealthy lifestyle: Unhealthy diet, sedentary habits, and stress.
Diagnosis
Your gynaecolgist will use a combination of methods to diagnose PCOD and rule out other conditions:
- Medical history: Discussing menstrual cycles.
- Physical exam: Checking weight, for signs of excess androgens like acne or hair growth.
- Blood tests: To measure hormone levels (androgens, LH, FSH, etc.), blood sugar, and cholesterol.
- Pelvic ultrasound: An imaging test to examine the ovaries for cysts and check the thickness of the uterine lining.
Management and Long-Term Outlook
There is no permanent cure for PCOD, but symptoms are highly manageable.
- Lifestyle modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, stress management are the first line of treatment and can significantly improve symptoms.
- Medications, such as birth control pills or anti-diabetes medications like metformin.
- Fertility treatments or surgical procedures (ovarian drilling) may be options if conception is desired and lifestyle changes are insufficient.
When to consult doctor:
If you have symptoms including irregular periods, weight gain, excessive hair growth
Whom to consult:
You can consult gynaecologist or infertility specialist or endocrinologist.