Polycystic Ovarian Disease
PCOD stands for Polycystic Ovarian Disease or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, which is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age.Â
Altius Hospitals specializes in PCOD/PCOS treatment, providing comprehensive solutions for individuals facing these common hormonal disorders. Our expert team utilizes advanced diagnostic methods to understand each patient’s unique needs and tailors a personalized treatment plan. From lifestyle management to medication and advanced interventions, we are committed to helping you manage and overcome PCOD/PCOS challenges. Trust Altius for compassionate care and effective solutions on your journey to hormonal balance and overall well-being
PCOD vs PCOS
What is PCOD?
- PCOD primarily refers to the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries. These cysts are small fluid-filled sacs that can develop within the ovaries.
- Eating junk food, being overweight, stress and hormonal disturbances give birth to this condition. Â Â
- Common symptoms of PCOD are irregular periods, abdominal weight gain, infertility and male pattern hair loss. The ovaries usually become enlarged in this problem and secrete large amounts of androgens that cause havoc with the woman’s fertility and her body.
- In PCOD, the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of androgens (male hormones), which can interfere with the development and release of eggs during ovulation. This affects 5% to 10% of women in the age group 12 years to 45 years.
What is PCOS?
- PCOS is a broader syndrome that causes not only the presence of ovarian cysts but also hormonal imbalances and associated symptoms.
- PCOS is characterized by symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgens (male hormones) leading to symptoms like excess hair growth, acne, and hair thinning or loss and metabolic issues such as insulin resistance and weight gain.
- PCOS is a serious medical condition, and it requires proper medical attention or surgical treatment.
Symptoms of PCOD/PCOS
- Irregular menstrual cycles: Women with PCOS often experience irregular periods, which may be infrequent or absent altogether. This irregularity is due to hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation.
Excess androgen levels: Elevated levels of male hormones (androgens) can lead to symptoms such as acne, oily skin, and excess hair growth (hirsutism), particularly on the face, chest, back, and abdomen.
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight: Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, which can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. Losing weight can be challenging for women with PCOS.
Hair thinning or hair loss: Some women with PCOS experience thinning hair or male-pattern baldness.
Skin problems: PCOS can be associated with skin issues such as acne, oily skin, and darkening of the skin, particularly around the neck creases, groin, and underneath the breasts (acanthosis nigricans).
Difficulty getting pregnant: PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women due to irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation. Some women with PCOS may struggle to conceive without medical intervention.
Causes of PCOD/PCOS
Hormonal Imbalance: PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances, including elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone.
Heredity: Women with a family history of PCOS are at increased risk of developing the condition themselves.
Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight or obese, may increase the risk of developing PCOS or exacerbate symptoms in women who already have the condition.
Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation may play a role in the development of PCOS. Inflammation can contribute to insulin resistance and disrupt ovarian function.
Diagnosis for PCOD/PCOS
PCOD or PCOS has physical findings that affect body systems and can be diagnosed through blood test and imaging. Depending on symptoms the gynaecologist will ask about medical history, eating and drinking habits, taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, including vitamins and supplements.
To diagnose PCOD or PCOS, a gynaecologist may recommend:
- Pelvic examination:Â Physically checking the reproductive organs for masses, abnormalities, or any growth
- Blood tests:Â Blood tests will help to understand the hormone levels, these incudes fasting lipid profile (to check the levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides levels, low-density lipoprotein (LDL)), glucose tolerance tests.
- Ultrasound:Â Ultrasound imaging test to check the size of ovaries, the lining of uterus and cysts in ovaries
- Â
Treatments for PCOD/PCOS
Treatment options for PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) are often similar because they share common underlying factors such as hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance. Here are some treatment options that may be recommended for managing PCOS/PCOD:
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Healthy Diet: Adopting a balanced diet low in processed foods and sugars and rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help regulate insulin levels and improve symptoms.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercises and strength training, can improve insulin sensitivity, aid in weight management, and regulate menstrual cycles.
- Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help improve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications associated with PCOS/PCOD.
- Â
