Things you need to know about PCOS or PCOD

Polycystic ovarian syndrome or disease (PCOS/PCOD) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is one of the most common health problems in Indian women affecting around one in five women, that is about 20%of Indian women. The reproductive system of women is primarily run by the interplay of five hormones, namely estrogen, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone. As per the top gynecologist in Jaipur, PCOD or PCOS is caused by the imbalance within these hormones. Along with havoc in hormonal levels, ovaries produce abnormal levels of androgens (male hormone) that result in excessive hair growth, irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, acne, and hair loss. This also leads to difficulty in conceiving pregnancy as the polycystic ovaries may fail to develop follicles and regularly release eggs.

What are the causes of PCOS or PCOD?

According to the best gynae doctor in Jaipur, there is no definite cause behind PCOD and PCOS. But somehow, some factors may contribute to it.

• Excess Insulin Production :  Excess insulin levels lead to overproduction of androgen leading to difficulty in ovulation.
• Excess Androgen Production :  Excess androgen production leads to acne and hirsutism.
• Low-grade inflammation : Low-grade inflammation in women leads to an increased level of androgen production which can lead to blood vessels or heart problems.
• Heredity : Genetics can also be a reason behind PCOD or PCOS in women.

What are the signs and symptoms of PCOS or PCOD?

As per the best woman care hospital in Jaipur, symptoms of PCOD vary in different people, however, obese patients have more severe symptoms. Some of the common signs and symptoms of PCOD or PCOS are as follows.

• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Acne
• Skin darkening
• Hirsutism (abnormal growth of hair on face and body)
• Bilateral Polycystic ovaries or ovarian cysts
• Weight gain
• Skin tags
• Hair thinning

What are the possible complications of PCOS or PCOD?

Some of the possible complications of PCOS are:

• Depression and anxiety
• Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Endometrial cancer
• Infertility
• Pregnancy-induced or Gestational diabetes
• Hypertension
• Metabolic syndrome
• Miscarriage or premature birth
• Sleep apnoea
• Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

These were some of the possible complications associated with PCOD or PCOS according to the top gynecology hospital in Jaipur.

How is PCOS or PCOD diagnosed?

There is no specific test to diagnose PCOD but the top gynecologist in Jaipur would discuss your medical history and perform some physical examination to confirm PCOD. The tests include:

• A pelvic examination
• Blood tests to check hormone levels
• An ultrasound to check the appearance of your ovaries and the uterus

If you are diagnosed with PCOD, the doctor will suggest getting regular checkups.

How is PCOS or PCOD treated?

According to the most renowned gynae doctor in Jaipur, treatment of PCOD mainly focuses on the management of underlying issues like obesity, infertility, etc. Management is done mainly with some medications and lifestyle changes.

Medications are taken for:

• Reducing excessive hair growth
• Regulating menstrual cycle
• Promoting ovulation

What lifestyle modifications could be beneficial for women with PCOS?

Some lifestyle modifications can help reduce the effect of PCOS. They include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Diet management and limitation in carbohydrate intake
• Exercising regularly

There is no clear cause known behind PCOD but early detection and diagnosis can play a role in proper management and reducing the complication involved. The best gynecology care hospital in Jaipur helps in the proper management of women's health conditions like PCOD and provides the best treatment for all of them.