What Is The PCOD Problem In Females?

PCOD or polycystic ovarian disease is a reproductive health issue in females and occurs due to hormonal imbalances and genetic tendencies. The ovaries of a female with PCOD produce and release partially mature or immature eggs in a big number that turn into cysts. Due to this, the ovaries of such a female are larger and produce a higher amount of androgens (male hormone). And this causes irregular menstrual periods, infertility, abnormal weight gain, and hair loss.   

PCOD is not PCOS  

Due to some similar symptoms, many of you may get confused with PCOD and PCOS. Keep in mind that PCOD is not PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). There are differences in these two reproductive health issues of females. To understand these two female reproductive health issues, you should keep the following points in mind that differentiate them:

Common symptoms of PCOD  

PCOD symptoms are similar to PCOS symptoms. If PCOD happens, you can experience the following signs:

• Weight gain 
• Acne 
• Irregular periods 
• Hair loss
• Infertility, in very rare cases 

Suggest to Read:- Track Ovulation With Irregular Periods

Causes of PCOD 

As per the available studies, it is not clear what causes a female to have PCOD. However, reproductive health experts think environmental and genetic factors cause this issue to a female. It can happen to you due to:

• An unhealthy diet 
• Pollution 
• Highly comfortable life 
• Medications that can alter hormones in the body 
• Many OTC (over the counter) medicines and supplements 
• Inflammation 
• Excess insulin production 

Risks/complications associated with PCOD 

PCOD symptoms leave a lasting impact on a female’s mental as well as physical health. It does not cause any critical complications. However, as per a study, around 34% of females with PCOD have depression and 45% of females with it have anxiety. As a PCOD patient, you can have:

• Negative social relationships 
• Mood swings 
• Negative self-image 
• Low motivation 
• Interruptions in sleeping and eating patterns 
• Low self-confidence 

PCOD diagnosis 

During consultation, your doctor will ask a few questions on what you are experiencing, your medical history, etc. After conducting physical examinations, the expert can recommend the following tests/scannings to you:

• Blood tests to know the levels of blood sugar, hormones, cholesterol, and insulin
• Pelvic ultrasound to measure the uterine lining and look for cysts in your ovaries 

PCOD Treatment 

There is no permanent cure for PCOD. However, medicines, dietary changes, and healthy lifestyle can help improve quality of life for females with PCOD. After going through the test reports, your doctor will advise the most effective treatment options that could include:

• Diet modification 
• Regular exercise 
• Ovulation induction medication and cyclic hormonal treatment  
• Skin treatment to deal with acne and hair loss 
• Laparoscopic surgery to remove cysts from the ovaries 
• Weight management 

Diet to manage PCOD 

While treating PCOD, your doctor will recommend a few changes in your diet. You should follow your doctor’s instructions. The following foods or food items should be in your diet while having PCOD treatment: 

• Natural, unprocessed food
• Leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale 
• Fibre-rich foods 
• Broccoli and cauliflower
• Nuts and legumes
• Fish
• Whole grain
• Low-fat dairy

Conclusion 

PCOD is not a curable reproductive health problem of females. However, early detection, diagnosis, and lifestyle changes as per a doctor’s instructions can help a female manage her PCOD and live a quality life. At FSIVF Centre, we produce all types of treatments and support to females with PCOD.