PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, yet its symptoms and effects are often misunderstood or underestimated. It is one of the leading causes of hormonal imbalances in women of reproductive age, impacting both their physical and emotional well-being.
PCOD, or Polycystic Ovarian Disease, is a hormonal condition where the ovaries produce an unusual amount of androgens (male hormones) and contain partially developed eggs that accumulate over time, forming ovarian cysts. These cysts can disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries and interfere with the regular menstrual cycle.
It’s important to note that PCOD should not be confused with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, they are distinct conditions. PCOD is less severe and primarily impacts the ovaries, while PCOS is an endocrine disorder with broader effects on metabolism and insulin regulation.
The exact cause of PCOD is not entirely understood, but several factors have been identified that may contribute to its development.
PCOD is primarily a hormonal disorder. Ovaries affected by PCOD tend to produce excessive androgens, which can interfere with ovulation and elevate other hormone levels, like insulin, in the body.
Insulin resistance is when body cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, causing excess glucose and subsequent higher-than-normal insulin levels. Excess insulin, in turn, may affect ovarian function by increasing androgen production, further complicating hormonal imbalances.
PCOD often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. If your mother or sister has PCOD, your chances of having the condition could be higher.
Unhealthy eating habits, irregular sleep patterns, and lack of physical activity can contribute to weight gain and hormonal disruptions, thereby worsening PCOD symptoms.
Being mindful of these controllable factors can sometimes alleviate or prevent the onset of PCOD symptoms.
Symptoms of PCOD can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may have mild symptoms, while others experience more severe ones. Recognising the early signs is crucial for timely management.
Women with PCOD may struggle with unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight, even with proper diet and exercise.
Elevated levels of androgens can cause unwanted facial or body hair growth in areas such as the chin, upper lip, chest, or back.
Persistent acne, especially along the jawline or cheeks, can be another indicator of PCOD, as high androgen levels stimulate excess oil production.
PCOD-related hormonal imbalances may contribute to hair thinning on the scalp, leading to female-pattern baldness in severe cases.
One of the hallmark signs of PCOD is irregular or missed periods, directly linked to ovulation disruption caused by hormonal imbalances.
While not all women with PCOD exhibit visible cysts, they are a frequent characteristic that can be identified via ultrasound.
Since PCOD affects ovulation, some women find it challenging to conceive naturally. This is one reason why PCOD is often detected when women seek medical advice for infertility.
Diagnosing PCOD is not always straightforward, as symptoms can mimic other hormonal or health conditions. Doctors often rely on a combination of clinical assessment, patient history, and diagnostic tools.
The diagnostic process begins with your doctor asking detailed questions about your menstrual cycle, weight changes, hair or skin symptoms, and family medical history to spot potential patterns or risks.
A physical check may focus on signs like weight changes, hair growth, acne, and other outward indications of hormonal imbalances.
Blood tests will help evaluate hormone levels, including testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin. High levels of androgens are a key marker for PCOD.
An ultrasound is typically performed to examine the ovaries. Polycystic ovaries with multiple cysts confirm PCOD in many cases.
Insulin resistance is commonly linked to PCOD, so doctors may conduct glucose tolerance tests or measure fasting insulin levels.
Although there’s no cure for PCOD, the condition can be effectively managed with the right combination of treatments and lifestyle changes. Key management strategies include:
PCOD might feel overwhelming, but understanding the condition is the first step toward managing it effectively. If you’re experiencing symptoms that align with PCOD or have concerns, seeking professional medical advice is critical to creating a plan tailored to your needs.
