PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Natural Remedies

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 Introduction

  • One of the most prevalent hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age is polycystic ovarian disease, or PCOD. Millions of women are impacted globally, but many go undiagnosed or have misconceptions about the illness. Multiple tiny cysts in the ovaries, irregular menstrual periods, and hormonal abnormalities are the hallmarks of PCOD.
  • Although PCOD is not fatal, if treatment is not received, it can have a major negative influence on a woman's quality of life, fertility, and metabolic health.
  • We will examine PCOD's causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, available treatments, home remedies, dietary advice, and frequently asked questions in this extensive guide.

PCOD: What is it?

  • Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOD, is a condition in which a woman's ovaries overproduce androgens, or male hormones, which are typically seen in trace amounts. This hormonal imbalance frequently results in irregular or skipped periods by interfering with the production and release of eggs during ovulation.
  • Despite the fact that PCOD and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are sometimes mistaken, they differ slightly:
  • Polycystic ovaries and hormonal imbalance are the main causes of PCOD.
  • A more serious metabolic condition, PCOS involves insulin resistance, hormonal imbalance, and long-term health hazards.

Causes of PCOD

1. An imbalance in hormones

  • Overproduction of androgens (male hormones): Women with PCOD frequently have higher-than-normal levels of androgens, which can interfere with ovulation and result in acne, thinning of the scalp hair, and facial hair development.
  • Insulin resistance: When the body's cells don't react well to insulin, the amount of insulin in the blood rises, which causes the ovaries to generate more androgens.

2. Genetic Variables

  • A woman is more likely to get PCOD if her mother or sister has it because it tends to run in families.
  • Numerous genes could be at play, influencing insulin action and hormone control.

3. High Insulin Levels & Insulin Resistance

  • The pancreas makes more insulin when the body doesn't want it.
  • Ovulation is disrupted by excess insulin, which causes the ovaries to produce more androgens.

4. Inflammation of Low Grade

Low-grade inflammation is common in women with PCOD, which causes the ovaries to overproduce androgens.

5. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

  • Poor diet (rich in sugar and refined carbohydrates)
  • A sedentary way of living
  • Weight gain or obesity (although slim women can sometimes develop PCOD)

6. Dysfunction of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis

Unusual signals from the pituitary and hypothalamus to the ovaries can result in an imbalance of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which influences the release of eggs.

Common Symptoms of PCOD

1. Menstrual cycles that are irregular

  • Periods that are missed, irregular (oligomenorrhea), or absent (amenorrhea)
  • When periods do occur, there is heavy menstrual flow.

2. Symptoms of Excess Androgen

  • Excessive development of facial and body hair (chin, upper lip, chest, belly, and back) is known as hirsutism.
  • Persistent, usually on the face, chest, or upper back, acne and greasy skin
  • Male-pattern baldness: Hair loss on the head, particularly in the area of the crown

3. Problems with Weight

  • Weight gain that cannot be explained or trouble decreasing weight
  • buildup of fat around the abdomen and waist

4. Alterations in the Skin

  • Dark, velvety skin patches (neck, underarms, and groin) are indicative of Acanthosis nigricans.
  • Skin tags are tiny, superfluous skin growths.

5. Issues with Fertility

Infertility brought induced by anovulation or irregular ovulation

6. Pelvic Pain Pain or discomfort in the pelvic region or lower abdomen, particularly during menstruation

7. Energy & Mood Problems

  • Low energy and fatigue
  • An elevated risk of depression or anxiety

8. Additional Related Symptoms

  • Headaches (caused by changes in hormones)
  • Issues with sleep, such as sleep apnea in women who are overweight

Complications of PCOD

1. The inability to conceive

One of the main reasons why women become infertile is PCOD, which is caused by irregular or nonexistent ovulation.

2. Problems During Pregnancy

  • Pregnancy-related diabetes, or gestational diabetes
  • High blood pressure during pregnancy, or preeclampsia
  • A higher chance of miscarriage or early birth

3. Disorders of Metabolism

  • Diabetes type 2 (caused by chronic insulin resistance)
  • A combination of elevated blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, extra belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels is known as metabolic syndrome.

4. Issues with the Heart

  • Hypertension, or elevated blood pressure,
  • High triglycerides or cholesterol
  • Higher risk of stroke and heart disease later in life

5. Endometrial Cancer

The uterine lining thickens as a result of irregular or nonexistent periods, raising the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer.

6. Sleep Issues

Sleep apnea (particularly prevalent in PCOD-afflicted overweight women)

7. Mental Health Conditions

  • Depression
  • Fear
  • Physical changes that cause low self-esteem (weight increase, acne, extra hair)

8. Complications Associated with Weight

Obesity exacerbates hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance.

Diagnosis of PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disorder)

1. Evaluation of Medical History and Symptoms

  • Patterns of the menstrual cycle (heavy, irregular, or skipped periods)
  • Excess androgen symptoms include acne, hair growth, and thinning of the scalp.
  • PCOD, diabetes, or obesity in the family

2. Physical Inspection

  • BMI and waist-to-hip ratio measurements
  • Examining for acne and excessive body and facial hair
  • Searching for skin abnormalities such as acanthosis nigricans

3. Hormone levels are measured and other explanations are ruled out using blood tests:

  • Androgen levels: DHEAS (high in PCOD) and testosterone
  • PCOD is frequently associated with an elevated LH:FSH ratio (> 2:1).
  • Blood sugar and insulin levels: To assess insulin resistance
  • Triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the lipid profile
  • Tests for prolactin and thyroid function to rule out other hormonal conditions

4. Ultrasound of the Pelvic Area

  • Abdominal or transvaginal ultrasonography can identify:
  • Larger ovaries
  • Each ovary contains twelve or more tiny follicles, which are frequently referred to as a "string of pearls."
  • The ovarian capsule is thicker.

5. Rotterdam Criteria for Diagnosis

  • If two of the three are present, PCOD is diagnosed:
  • Ovulation that is irregular or nonexistent
  • Elevated amounts of androgen (clinical or laboratory results)
  • ultrasonography findings of polycystic ovaries

Treatment of PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disorder)

1. Changes in Lifestyle (First-line Approach)

  • A nutritious diet
  • Consume low-GI, high-fiber foods (legumes, veggies, and whole grains).
  • Cut back on processed meals, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.
  • Add healthy fats and lean proteins.
  • Frequent Physical Activity
  • Moderate exercise for 30 to 45 minutes, at least five days a week
  • aids in weight management, period regulation, and insulin sensitivity improvement.
  • Controlling Weight
  • Restoring ovulation and alleviating symptoms can be achieved with even a 5–10% weight decrease.
  • Handling Stress
  • Using mindfulness practices, yoga, or meditation to balance cortisol levels

2. Medication for Hormonal Balance & Menstrual Irregularity

  • Combination oral contraceptives (COCs): control periods, reduce testosterone, lessen acne, and cut down on hair growth
  • If menstruation is prolonged, progesterone medication can protect the lining of the uterus.
  • Regarding Insulin Resistance
  • Metformin: Enhances insulin sensitivity, aids in weight loss, and may help ovulation return to normal.
  • For Acne & Excess Hair
  • Anti-androgens, such as spironolactone, which are typically taken with birth control tablets, can lessen acne and hair growth.
  • Topical treatments for facial hair, such as eflornithine
  • Regarding Issues with Fertility
  • Ovulation-inducing medications (such as letrozole and clomiphene citrate) to aid in conception
  • IVF (in vitro fertilization) may be taken into consideration in certain situations.

3. Options for Surgery

  • Ovarian drilling by laparoscopy (LOD)
  • To restore ovulation and decrease androgen-producing tissue, tiny punctures are made in the ovary.
  • usually taken into account if drugs don't work

4. Adjunctive Natural & Supportive Therapies

  • In mild situations, herbal remedies such as inositol, cinnamon, and spearmint tea may be helpful.
  • Menstrual regularity and hormonal balance may be enhanced with acupuncture.

5. Handling Related Conditions

  • Controlling blood sugar and cholesterol with food, exercise, or medicine
  • Support for mental health: treatment or counseling for anxiety and sadness

Diet for PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disorder)

1. Essential PCOD Dietary Guidelines

  • Low Glycemic Index (GI) foods: To prevent sharp increases in insulin and blood sugar
  • A high-fiber diet reduces the absorption of sugar, keeps you full, and improves digestion.
  • Lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in the proper proportions make up balanced macros.
  • Frequent, little meals help maintain a stable metabolism and avoid overindulging.

2. Foods Including Nutritious Carbs

  • Whole grains include barley, quinoa, oats, brown rice, and whole wheat.
  • Legumes: kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils
  • Yams and sweet potatoes
  • High-Fiber Fruits and Vegetables
  • Vegetables include bell peppers, cucumbers, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini.
  • Berries, apples, pears, cherries, and guava are examples of low-GI fruits.
  • Lean Proteins: Turkey, chicken without skin, and eggs
  • Omega-3-rich fish include sardines, mackerel, and salmon.
  • Plant-based: beans, tofu, and paneer (in moderation)
  • Nuts and seeds that are high in healthy fats include sunflower, flaxseed, walnut, chia, and almond seeds.
  • Avocado
  • Coconut oil with olive oil (in moderation)
  • Low-fat or alternative dairy products
  • Yogurt, plant-based milk (almond, soy), or low-fat milk

3. Foods to Avoid or Limit: Pasta, white bread, and baked goods are examples of refined carbohydrates.

  • Sweets and sugary beverages
  • Fried and processed foods
  • Excessive consumption of red and processed meats
  • High-sodium foods in containers
  • Alcohol and caffeine abuse

Homemade Remedies for PCOD

1. The cinnamon

  • Why it's beneficial enhances insulin sensitivity and aids in menstrual cycle regulation.
  • Use: Sprinkle cinnamon powder on porridge or smoothies every day, or add ½ teaspoon to warm water.

2. The Benefits of Spearmint Tea reduces undesired hair growth by lowering levels of the male hormone androgen.

How to apply: In a cup of water, bring 1 teaspoon of dried spearmint leaves to a boil, drain, and consume twice daily.

3. Seeds of Fenugreek

  • Why it helps: Promotes weight loss and enhances glucose metabolism.
  • Use instructions: Soak 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds overnight, consume the soaked water in the morning, and eat on an empty stomach.

4. Flaxseeds

  • Why it's beneficial abundant in lignans, which lower testosterone and raise cholesterol.
  • Use: Include 1-2 teaspoons of ground flaxseeds in yogurt, salads, or smoothies.

5. Juice from Aloe Vera

  • Why it helps: Aids in hormone regulation and body detoxification.
  • Use: Every day before breakfast, take two tablespoons of fresh aloe vera juice mixed with water.

6. ACV, or apple cider vinegar

  • Why it's beneficial helps control weight and enhances insulin sensitivity.
  • Use: Before meals, mix 1 spoonful of ACV with a glass of warm water.

7. Leaves of Tulsi (Holy Basil)

  • Why it's beneficial promotes blood sugar regulation, lowers stress, and balances hormones.
  • How to apply: Every day, chew five to six fresh tulsi leaves or make herbal tea.

8. Nutritious Herbal Blend (Optional)

  • Equal amounts of flaxseed, fenugreek, and cinnamon powder
  • Keep in a jar and take one teaspoon with warm water every day.

Problems with Fertility in PCOD

  • longer natural conception time
  • A higher chance of miscarriage
  • Increased risk of pregnancy problems, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes

Enhancing Fertility in PCOD Through Lifestyle changes

  • Reduce extra weight; even a 5–10% drop can help ovulation return.
  • Consume a low-GI, PCOD-friendly diet.
  • To increase insulin sensitivity, engage in regular exercise.

Medical Interventions

  • Drugs that Induce Ovulation:
  • The first-line treatment for ovulation induction is letrozole.
  • Clomiphene citrate is frequently used to induce the discharge of eggs.
  • Metformin can restore ovulation and increase insulin sensitivity.

In circumstances where ovulation is resistive, gonadotropin injections can stimulate it.

If medicine doesn't work, laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) is a surgical option.
In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is recommended for severe instances or after several unsuccessful procedures.

Results of Pregnancy with PCOD

The majority of women with PCOD are able to conceive and have healthy pregnancies with the correct care and lifestyle modifications. However, the key to increasing opportunities and lowering dangers is early diagnosis and management.

In conclusion

If PCOD is identified early and treated appropriately, it is a treatable condition. Women can have normal lives, regain hormonal balance, and increase fertility with a mix of a good diet, consistent exercise, stress management, and medical advice.

See a gynecologist if you think you may have PCOD for a correct diagnosis and a customized treatment regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 Q1: Is there a permanent cure for PCOD?

No, however medical care and lifestyle modifications can effectively manage symptoms.

Q2: Are PCOD and PCOS the same thing?

No. PCOS is a more severe metabolic syndrome, whereas PCOD is a hormonal imbalance with polycystic ovaries.

Q3: Can PCOD be treated with weight loss?

Yes, symptoms can be much improved by lowering even 5–10% of body weight.

Q4: Can pregnancy difficulties result from PCOD?

Indeed, it may raise the risk of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and miscarriage.

Q5: Can someone with PCOD conceive naturally?

Yes, with the right management and lifestyle adjustments, many women become pregnant naturally.


Location: India

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