PCOD: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Problem

What is PCOD? 

Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) affects the ovaries by forming cysts. PCOD is a common condition that closely affects 10 out of 100 women between 12 and 48 years of age. 

The formation of characteristic cysts (fluid-filled sacs) marks the prognosis of the condition which subsequently causes irregular, prolonged, and delayed menstrual cycles. Healthy ovaries produce a small number of androgens (male reproductive hormones); however, in PCOD, a hormonal imbalance contributes to disease prognosis. 

In excessive conditions, PCOD may cause infertility as well. If left untreated, PCOD can contribute to major issues like heart disease and diabetes. 

Symptoms of PCOD 

Here are some common symptoms of PCOD:

• Acne: Women suffering from PCOD commonly develop visible acne in various parts of the body such as the face, neck, and back. 

• Irregular Periods: Irregularity in your periods is not a good sign. Some women also experience a heavy flow which is an underlying sign of menstrual irregularity.

• Fluctuating Weight: Most women with PCOD are obese or overweight. If you are unable to lose weight even after exercising and following a diet it could be a sign of PCOD.

• Hair Fall: Hair fall or thinning will occur prominently even after following a healthy scalp routine.

• Diabetes: Women suffering from PCOD are at a higher risk of getting diabetes as an associated co-morbidity. 

• Migraines

• Hyperpigmentation: Visual hyperpigmentation around the mouth, neck, and private parts.

• Crown Baldness: Women suffering from PCOD can experience male pattern baldness, and some even lose their hair from their crowns.

• Excessive Hair Growth: Most women who suffer from PCOD have hair growth on their face, back, stomach, and chest. The condition is also called hirsutism.

• Depression: All these symptoms and changes can overwhelm you and may cause depression. 

It is important to keep a check on all symptoms as many can go neglected or unattended due to one's lack of knowledge of the subject. If you find anything unusual about your body or if you notice any of these symptoms, you must consult a doctor. 

Causes of PCOD 

These are the factors that can cause PCOD:

• High levels of inflammation 
• Heredity
• Unhealthy lifestyle
• High production of male hormones (androgen)
• Excess insulin 
• Insulin resistance
• Obesity
• Pollution
• Poor diet 
• Lack of proper nutrition

Although PCOD is a disorder, not a disease if it is not treated on time can cause many complications such as infertility, diabetes, heart disease, endometrial cancer, and depression. 

Diagnosis of PCOD

There are various tests that can help diagnose PCOD. Your doctor will be able to check your symptoms after discussing all your worries. 

• Blood Tests to check FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH-Luteinizing Hormone, Prolactin, Total Testosterone, Free Testosterone, blood sugar, blood pressure, glucose tolerance, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 

• Ultrasound to check the appearance of your ovaries and reproductive system and to spot unusual mass(s) or cyst(s) present. 

• Physical Examination to check excess hair growth or acne. 

What are some problems associated with PCOD?

PCOD can lead to several health complications if left untreated:

• Irregular menstrual cycles, leading to difficulty conceiving
• Insulin resistance and increased risk of type 2 diabetes
• Elevated blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk
• High cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression
• Sleep apnea and fatigue
• Endometrial hyperplasia and increased risk of endometrial cancer
• Pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and miscarriage
• Acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and male-pattern baldness
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome

Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) treatment

The treatment approach for PCOD varies depending on the individual's specific symptoms and goals. Some common PCOD treatment options include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise routine can help manage weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and alleviate symptoms.
• Medications: PCOD medication may be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and address specific symptoms like excessive hair growth or acne.
• Fertility treatments: For women with PCOD who are trying to conceive, fertility medications or assisted reproductive technologies may be recommended.
• Surgical interventions: In some cases, laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be performed to restore ovulation.

Medications and surgery for PCOD

PCOD medication options include:

• Hormonal birth control pills: These help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and manage symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth.
• Metformin: This diabetes medication improves insulin sensitivity and can promote ovulation in women with PCOD.
• Anti-androgens: Medications like spironolactone can block the effects of excess androgens, reducing hair growth and acne.
• Fertility medications: Clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women with PCOD who are trying to conceive.

In rare cases, surgical interventions like laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be considered to restore ovulation when medications are ineffective.

Surgery for PCOD

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that may be recommended for women with PCOD who have not responded to medication. During LOD, small holes are made in the ovaries using a laser or electrocautery to destroy the androgen-producing tissue. This can help restore regular ovulation and improve fertility in some women with PCOD.

What exercises are best for PCOD?

Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for managing PCOD. A combination of aerobic exercises like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, along with strength training, can help improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and reduce the severity of PCOD symptoms. Yoga and stretching exercises can also be beneficial for reducing stress and promoting hormonal balance.

Diet for PCOD

There is no specific medication to treat PCOD, but nutrition and diet can play a major role in controlling it. Include the following types of food in your daily diet to get rid of your PCOD worries: 

• Food that is low in Glycemic Index (GI): Consuming food with a low glycemic index will help you to stay full for longer and will not cause a spike in your insulin level. This is because low glycemic index foods are digested slowly. Therefore food items such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, non-starchy vegetables, and other unprocessed, low-carbohydrate foods will be highly beneficial. 

• Anti-Inflammatory Foods: These food items will help in alleviating inflammation-related symptoms. This category includes berries, fatty salmon, leafy greens, and extra virgin olive oil. 

More food items that must be included in your diet if you have PCOD are:

• Fish rich in omega fatty acids such as tuna, sardines, and salmon.
• Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and kale.
• Healthy fats such as nuts, olive oil, avocados, almonds, and pistachios.
• Unrefined and natural food.
• Dark chocolate but in moderation.
• Spices, such as turmeric and cinnamon.

Furthermore, avoid the following foods as they will cause you discomfort:

• Fried and fast food such as french fries and burgers
• Fizzy drinks, cold drinks, and energy drinks
• Processed food and meat
• Red meat

Conclusion

PCOD is a lifestyle-related disorder in women. It is caused due to stress, poor diet, and lack of physical workout. Treatment options for PCOD are limited, making the condition more imposing. 

With healthy lifestyle changes (protein-rich diet, daily workout sessions, meditation) and self-appraisal (menstrual cycle track), PCOD can be kept at bay. If you experience irregular periods, sudden weight gain, facial hair, or any other related symptoms, visit your gynaecologist soon. 

For a comprehensive check-up, connect with Metropolis Healthcare, a leading pathology lab and diagnostic centre. Metropolis offers a multinational network, a wide range of clinical laboratory test facilities, and senior pathologists to deliver diagnostic solutions. The accessibility of stay-at-home blood collection service, online tracking of samples, and report download from a single app make Metropolis even more women-friendly. 

FAQs

What happens if a girl has PCOD?

Girls with PCOD may experience irregular periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, or absence of menstruation (amenorrhoea). They may also develop acne, excessive hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism), and weight gain. PCOD can affect fertility and increase the risk of long-term health problems like diabetes and heart disease if left untreated. Managing PCOD with proper treatment helps reduce these risks.

Can PCOD be cured with exercise?

While exercise alone cannot cure PCOD, it is an essential component of managing the condition. Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, promotes weight loss, and regulates menstrual cycles. Exercise, in combination with a balanced diet and appropriate medical treatment, can significantly reduce the symptoms and risks associated with PCOD.

How to avoid PCOD or PCOS?

To help prevent or manage PCOD and PCOS, maintain a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Eat a low-glycaemic diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Manage stress through relaxation or therapy, avoid smoking and excess alcohol, and regularly consult a doctor to monitor hormones and overall health.

Is PCOD treatable?

Yes, PCOD is treatable. While there is no complete cure, the symptoms can be effectively managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, surgery. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual's needs and may focus on regulating menstrual cycles, reducing androgen levels, improving insulin sensitivity, and addressing specific concerns like infertility or hirsutism.

How does PCOD occur?

PCOD occurs due to a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. Insulin resistance can lead to higher androgen production in the ovaries, disrupting normal ovulation and causing the development of multiple small cysts.

How can you control PCOD?

Controlling PCOD requires a holistic approach, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. Follow prescribed medications and manage stress with relaxation techniques. Regularly monitor blood sugar and hormone levels, and consult your doctor for targeted treatments to address issues like infertility, irregular periods, or excess hair growth.

Is PCOD the same as PCOS?

PCOD and PCOS are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. PCOD specifically refers to the presence of multiple cysts in the ovaries, while PCOS is a broader term that encompasses a range of symptoms and hormonal imbalances, including polycystic ovaries.

What is bilateral PCOD?

Bilateral PCOD means that both ovaries are affected by the condition, containing multiple small cysts. This is the most common presentation of PCOD, as the hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance typically impact both ovaries simultaneously. Bilateral PCOD can lead to more severe symptoms and a higher risk of complications compared to cases where only one ovary is affected.

Can PCOD be cured naturally?

PCOD cannot be completely cured naturally, but lifestyle changes can effectively manage symptoms. A low-glycaemic diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are key. Stress management through yoga or meditation helps, along with natural remedies like spearmint tea or inositol. Always consult a doctor for a personalised treatment plan.

How to manage PCOD at home?

Managing PCOD at home involves adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet low in sugar and processed foods, regular exercise, and stress-reducing practices like meditation or yoga. Ensure quality sleep and a consistent schedule. Take medications as prescribed, track symptoms, and attend regular check-ups with your doctor.

What foods should be avoided with PCOD?

Women with PCOD should avoid refined carbs, sugary snacks, processed and fried foods, and sugary drinks like soda. Limit dairy, red meat, processed meats, alcohol, and excess caffeine, especially if insulin resistance is present. Instead, focus on whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables for better management.

Can PCOD cause infertility?

Yes, PCOD can cause infertility due to hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation, making natural conception challenging. However, many women with PCOD can achieve pregnancy through proper treatment. Options include medications to induce ovulation, assisted reproductive technologies like IUI or IVF, and lifestyle changes to improve overall health and fertility. Early diagnosis and management are essential.

What is the best treatment for PCOD?

The best treatment for PCOD depends on individual symptoms and health goals. It often includes lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management. Medications such as oral contraceptives, metformin, or fertility medicines may be prescribed. In severe cases, surgery like ovarian drilling may help. Regular monitoring and personalised care from a doctor are essential.

Can PCOD lead to other health problems?

PCOD can lead to long-term health issues if not managed properly. It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Other complications include sleep apnoea, endometrial cancer, depression, anxiety, and pregnancy issues like gestational diabetes. Regular check-ups, lifestyle changes, and timely medical care are essential to manage these risks.

How to lose weight with PCOD?

Losing weight with PCOD is challenging but achievable with the right strategy. A low-glycaemic diet, portion control, and regular exercise—both cardio and strength training—are key. Managing stress, taking prescribed medications like metformin, and seeking guidance from a dietitian can help. Sustainable, gradual weight loss is more effective and supports better long-term health with PCOD.